Prior Learning and Assessment Recognition

What is PLAR?

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) equivalency processes allow mature students to earn credits based on life and work experience to obtain an Ontario Secondary School Diploma. There are two PLAR equivalency processes, one for grades 9 and 10 and another for grades 11 and 12.

Do I qualify for PLAR?

To qualify for PLAR, you must be:

• 18 years of age or over before December 31 of the school year out of high school for at least a school year
• enrolled in an adult education program for the purpose of obtaining an Ontario Secondary
• School Diploma.

Gr. 9 & 10 PLAR

Up to 16 grade 9 and 10 credits may be granted to a mature student through an equivalency process for science, math, English, history and geography subject areas.

In-class preparation and assessments in the above subject areas are relatively short compared to an actual course. On average, regular attending students take approximately 2 weeks to complete an assessment versus 6 weeks to complete a full credit course.

Gr. 11 & 12 PLAR

Up to 10 high school credits at the grade 11 and 12 level may be granted for life and work experience, which may include:

• credits for independent living
• credits for parenthood
• credits for vehicle ownership
• credits for work experience in various fields
• credits for post-secondary courses and certification programs
• credits for arts, music, dance and other creative endeavors
• credits for volunteer experience
• Students must provide evidence of their experiences.

Schools offering this program: