Ways to Earn Credit
At Maricopa Community Colleges, we know that learning happens everywhere—in the classroom, on the job, and through life experiences. If you've taken college courses elsewhere, passed national exams, or gained valuable skills outside of school, you may be closer to your degree than you think! Explore how you can save time and money by applying your past learning toward your educational goals.

Transfer Credit
Have you completed coursework at another accredited college or university? You may be able to transfer those credits to Maricopa Community Colleges and apply them toward your program. Learn how the process works and get started today!

Prior Learning Assessment
You’ve gained skills and knowledge through work, military service, industry certifications, or other experiences—why not turn that into college credit? Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) allows you to earn credit for what you already know, helping you fast-track your degree.

National Standardized Exams
If you've taken exams like Advanced Placement (AP), College Level Examination Program (CLEP), or DANTES Subject Standardization Test (DSST), you might already have earned college credit! Find out which exams are accepted and how to apply your scores toward your degree.

Get Started Today!
Figuring out how your past experience translates into college credit can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help! Connect with an academic advisor to review your options and plan your next steps.