Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)

Cypress College’s Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) Program is part of the statewide CPL MAP Initiative, led by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office. This initiative strengthens the connection between community colleges, UCs, CSUs, and local communities by expanding access to higher education for individuals who’ve gained college-level skills outside the traditional classroom.

At Cypress College, we support this mission by offering eligible students the opportunity to have their prior learning assessed for college credit. These credits are applied to their Education Plan, helping them begin their academic journey at the level that’s right for them.

Through Credit for Prior Learning, we aim to maintain a campus culture that celebrates education in all facets and pushes Cypress College students to new heights by honing their existing skills and creating clearer pathways to career success in our local community and beyond.

Students prove their skills by passing a comprehensive assessment drafted and approved by discipline faculty.

Veteran students can submit their Joint Service Transcripts (JSTs) or Air University Transcripts and have them reviewed for eligible credit recommendations based on their military training and experience as evaluated by the American Council on Education (ACE).

How to submit transcripts for review:

1. Visit Joint Service Transcript (JST) to retrieve your JSTs or Parchment to retrieve your Air University Transcripts (you may need to create a new account if it’s your first time accessing your records).
2. Email the PDF copy to cpl@cypresscollege.edu.
3. If there is a specific course that you’d like checked for CPL credit, please specify it in the email, including the course name and details.

If you’re not sure if you’ve already submitted your transcripts to the Veterans Resource Center, call or visit for assistance.

Students submit a comprehensive portfolio showcasing their college-level knowledge for division faculty review.

Students prove skills by submitting industry recognized credentials that align with college-level courses in the form of industry certificates, licenses, and/or proof of apprenticeship or internship.

Students can submit their exam scores for Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and College-Level Examination Program (CLEP).