Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)

two students working on PLAR assessments

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) is a formal evaluation and credit-granting process that allows mature students to obtain credits for knowledge and skills learned outside of school. PLAR can help students 18 years and over who are interested in earning credits for work and life experiences.

"Coming back to school wasn't easy. Thankfully, PLAR allowed me to gain credits through life and work experiences. I attended day school and earned the remaining credits I needed to graduate. Staff have been helpful throughout my journey. It is truly never too late." -Chris

View brochure, click here.

Watch PLAR for Mature Student Video

Watch the PLAR for Mature Student video in the following languages:

Tagalog Spanish Simplified Chinese Urdu Arabic Punjabi French

Who is eligible for PLAR?

Mature students who:
- are 18 years of age on or before Dec. 31 of the school year
- enrolled in Adult & Continuing Education at Archbishop Anthony Meagher CCEC
- not enrolled as a regular day school student for a period of one school year to be eligible for PLAR
- have started high school in Ontario in 1999 or later and is returning as an adult
- started or completed high school outside of Ontario but want to obtain OSSD

Note: Students who started high school in Ontario before 1999 may have Maturity credits granted through a Mature Student Evaluation.

What schooling and experiences can I get credit for?

You can get credits for learning and skills you have acquired at school, at home, at work, in training programs, and volunteer work. This applies to schooling, work and experiences that you have from outside Ontario and Canada.

How much does it cost?

There is no charge for PLAR.

Speak to a guidance counsellor to plan the best way for you to earn the credits you need to graduate. PLAR can help you to meet diploma requirements.

Contact us:

For more information and details about how to apply, please call

Oshawa Campus at 905-438-0570
Ajax Campus at 905-683-7713

PLAR in the News

She got a credit for being a mom: How adults in Durham are getting their high school diploma faster