Credit for Prior Learning Fees

At National Louis University, earning credit through the Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) options, including Credit by Portfolio, CLEP exams, and other standardized exams, involves specific fees. Here’s what you need to know:

ACL 301: Prior Learning Assessment Course

Tuition Cost: ACL 301 is a two quarter hour (2 QHs) course. If not covered by federal or state financial aid, you will be responsible for tuition equivalent to two quarters at NLU. Financial aid may be available for eligible students—check with your advisor  and student finance to confirm your eligibility.

Credit by Portfolio (CPL 400, 500) 

There is a $300 fee for the faculty assessment of your portfolio. This fee is added at the time of your registration to the portfolio option. 

Important Note: Federal and state financial aid does not cover the costs associated with Credit by Portfolio. You are responsible for all fees related to this option.

Credit by Credential 

No Additional Fees: At NLU, students do not incur any additional fees for earning credit through credential evaluations. The credit awarded for recognized credentials is applied without extra charges.

Credit by Examination

• CLEP Exam Fee: The fee for CLEP exams is set by College Board and must be paid at the time of registration to College Board. This fee is separate from any proctoring or administration fees that may be charged by NLU for onsite testing.
  • Proctoring Fee: If you choose to take your CLEP exam onsite at an NLU campus, you will be charged a nonrefundable $35 proctoring fee.
• DSST Exam Fees: Check DSST's website for the latest registration and proctoring fee(s). 
• NYU Language Exam Fee: Check NYU's website for the latest registration and proctoring fee(s) - choose your specific language to see related charges. Reminder that NLU does not administer NYU exams directly. 

*DANTES-Funded Exams*

Eligible military personnel, civilians, and spouses can have their CLEP and DSST exam fees covered by DANTES. Please note that NLU does not administer DANTES-funded exams directly. You must take these exams at an authorized National Test Center.

Important Note: Federal and state financial aid does not cover the costs associated with CLEP or other standardized exams. You are responsible for all related fees.

Contact Information

If you have questions about CPL fees or need more information, please reach out to your Academic Advisor or contact the CPL office at cpl@nl.edu.