Recognition of Prior Learning

RPL Applications for Winter 2022 Now Open!

We are now accepting RPL applications for courses scheduled to begin between January 4 and February 18.  Please note the following important information:

  • Applications for credit transfer/equivalency will only be accepted for courses scheduled to begin between January 4 and February 18. The deadline is Thursday, January 20.  There will be a second application period for courses scheduled to begin after the winter study break.
  • IMPORTANT: If you previously completed courses at NBCC that have the same code as courses required in your current program, you do not need to apply for credit transfer. Instead, please contact the Administrative Assistant in your school.

    Before you apply: Please read the Top 10 RPL Guidelines
  • To apply for credit transfer/equivalency, click this link and login to the RPL Portal: https://helpdesk.nbcc.ca/CherwellPortal/RPLPortal
  • For best experience, use a laptop or desktop computer to submit your application (mobile phones and tablets are not recommended).
  • You must submit a SEPARATE application form for EACH NBCC course you are seeking credit for. If you use one form to apply for credit toward more than one NBCC course, your application will be rejected.
  • If you have failed an NBCC course and wish to apply for pre-approval, please talk to your Co-ordinating Instructor or another student advisor about your options.
  • Not sure how to apply? Watch our “How to Apply for RPL” video: https://youtu.be/aoA2yDYA1mQ
  • Have more questions? Check out the FAQs or send your question to the RPL Office using the Questions? Ask Us contact form
  • Don’t forget to check out these additional features on the RPL Portal:
    • Search for previously evaluated courses to see if your course has been approved for credit in the past (Watch the tutorial here: https://youtu.be/0Uodt26LDI0)
    • View your NBCC course profiles to understand the learning outcomes for your courses (Watch the tutorial here: https://youtu.be/WtKFgbHL03E)
    • Check the status of your RPL application by viewing your open requests

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) Pilot Project for IT Programs

Starting Fall 2021, NBCC will be piloting new approaches to assessing and recognizing informal learning gained through work or life experience and other non-formal training. We are currently seeking applicants interested in pursuing either the IT: Programmer-Analyst or IT: Web & Mobile Application Development programs.

Learn More

At NBCC, we recognize that learning happens inside and outside the classroom. Our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program allows you to gain credit for the learning you already possess. You may have taken many different paths to develop this learning, from formal coursework at other post-secondary institutions to informal workshops and seminars, on-the-job training, work experience, volunteerism, military service or family commitments. No matter how or where you gained your experience, RPL provides a way for you to demonstrate your learning and receive formal credit for it.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Values

The RPL Team operates with a culture of respect, transparency, and accountability and is committed to continuously improving processes and services. Diverse forms of learning are valued and assessments are based on the learning achieved, not the individual or where the learning occurred. By acknowledging diversity, embracing inclusivity, and rejecting biases we reduce institutional barriers and facilitate academic and career success for students.

There are two ways you can be awarded credit towards your program at NBCC:

  • Credit Transfer (CR): You may earn credit for courses you previously completed at a recognized post-secondary institution if the learning matches at least 80% of the competencies, scope, depth, and level of learning required for the respective NBCC course and you achieved a minimum grade of 60%.
  • Credit Equivalency (EQ): You may earn credit for learning you gained from work or life experience, volunteerism, self-directed study, military service, on-the-job training, workshops, or seminars. The learning you achieved must match at least 80% of the competencies, scope, depth, and level of learning required in the respective NBCC course.

There is no end to education. It is not that you read a book, pass an examination, and finish with education. The whole of life, from the moment you are born to the moment you die, is a process of learning.

Jiddu Krishnamurti

Questions? Ask Us

Use this form to ask questions about RPL or request a meeting with the RPL Coordinator to discuss your application.