I’ve heard people talk about getting college credit for life experiences, and testing out of classes. How does that work?

Many institutions grant credit through standardized exams. Exams such as CLEP or DANTES may be taken in several subject areas and students gain credit when the exams are successfully passed. Some colleges also grant credit for life or work experience, often termed “life experience or prior learning credit”. This normally involves compiling a portfolio that demonstrates the student has mastered the principles taught in a course. This is especially beneficial to those with certifications such as EMT, Paramedic, or industry licensure. Colleges are guided by college credit recommendations made by the American Council on Education and the National Program on Noncollegiate Sponsored Instruction.