Assessing Your Learning & Experience
A prior learning assessment looks at both formal learning (your prior education) and informal learning (your experience). Your prior education will be assessed to see if:
- It meets admission requirements for your chosen Alberta program of study
- You would benefit from language training or other foundational learning before starting your new program of study
You may be asked to provide proof of your English language proficiency. If your transcripts are not provided in English, you will be asked to have them translated.
Evaluating Foreign Credentials
Information regarding how to get your credentials assessed and a list of credential assessment services organizations that may be used in Canada for international credential assessment can be found on CiCiC.
You will need to work with your post-secondary institution to ensure your higher education credentials are assessed. In Alberta, many institutions use the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS), which compares educational qualifications from other countries to Alberta educational standards. See FAQs for common questions about IQAS.
Some institutions also utilize their own credential assessment processes. Always confirm your institution's credential evaluation process with them before you get started.
If you received your credential in another country and are going to post-secondary in Alberta, it will need to be assessed to see if it meets Alberta standards.
Please see Study in Alberta for more details.
Trade & Occupation Credentials
In Alberta, several trades and occupations are regulated and require specific credentials.
Evaluating Your Experience
Your experience could get you post-secondary credit. Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) identifies, assesses and recognizes your skills and knowledge by comparing it to your program of study’s learning outcomes. You may receive credit that helps you complete your program more quickly.
