Transfer Credit & Prior Learning Assessment Policy
Document
Transfer Credit & Prior Learning Assessment Policy
Owner
Office of the Registrar
Effective Date
October 18, 2026
Last Reviewed
October 18, 2026
Next Review
October 2027
1. Purpose
This policy describes how Neponset evaluates academic credit earned at other institutions, through standardized examinations, and through documented prior learning, and how that credit may apply to Neponset certificates and (upon receipt of degree-granting authority) future degree programs.
2. Transfer Credit from Accredited Institutions
Neponset accepts transfer credit from institutions accredited by an accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Courses considered for transfer must:
Have been completed with a grade of C (2.0) or higher.
Be substantially similar in content, level, and credit hours to a Neponset course or certificate requirement.
Have been completed within the last ten (10) years, or be reviewed for currency by the Office of Academic Affairs.
3. Limits on Transfer Credit
For each Neponset certificate, no more than fifty percent (50%) of the required courses may be satisfied through transfer credit. The remaining courses must be completed through Neponset.
4. Standardized Examination Credit
Neponset awards credit for qualifying scores on the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP), DSST examinations, Advanced Placement (AP) examinations, and International Baccalaureate (IB) higher-level examinations, where the examination corresponds to a Neponset course. Specific score requirements are published in the Academic Catalog.
5. Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)
Adult learners with documented professional, military, or community-based experience may apply for credit through Prior Learning Assessment. PLA options include:
American Council on Education (ACE) credit recommendations for military training, professional certifications, and corporate training.
Portfolio-based assessment, in which the learner submits documentation of learning aligned with course outcomes.
Challenge examinations, where available, demonstrating mastery of course content.
PLA credit is subject to the same fifty-percent transfer cap and is reviewed by qualified faculty in the discipline.
6. Articulation Agreements
Neponset will pursue formal articulation agreements with Massachusetts Community Colleges and other institutions to streamline transfer for adult learners. Active agreements are published in the Academic Catalog and on the Neponset website.
7. Process & Appeals
Learners request transfer credit evaluation by submitting official transcripts and any required documentation to the Registrar within sixty (60) days of admission. Decisions are issued in writing within thirty (30) days. Learners may appeal credit decisions under the Grievance & Appeals Procedure.