Student FAQ

  • CPL can help you save time and money as you work toward your degree or certificate.
  • CPL can give you a head start on finishing your program faster.
  • CPL gives you credit for what you’ve already learned outside the classroom — like work, military service, or training.

Check the list of Courses Eligible for CPL page.

Students can earn CPL through the following ways:

  • Achievement of a satisfactory score on one of the following standardized exams.
    • Advanced Placement (AP) examination.
    • International Baccalaureate (IB) examination.
    • College Level Examination Program (CLEP).
  • Evaluation of Joint Service Transcripts (JST) Achievement of an examination administered by other agencies approved by the District.
  • Evaluation of industry recognized credential documentation.
  • Evaluation of student-created portfolios.
  • Satisfactory completion of an industry examination not administered by the college in lieu of completion of an active course listed in the current college catalog.
  • Satisfactory completion of an institutional examination, known as Credit by Examination, administered by the college in lieu of completion of an active course listed in the current college catalog.

There are no fees associated with CPL.

Please contact one of the following individuals for assistance.

  • There is currently no limit to the numbers of credits that can be awarded. It is strongly encouraged that you meet with a counselor to determine what works best for your education plan.
  • There are limits to what kind and how much CPL will be accepted at transfer colleges.
    • University of California accepts Advanced Placement exams, International Baccalaureate exams, Credit by Exam assessments and will review Joint Service Transcripts after matriculation.
    • Out-of-State and private colleges have a variety of CPL acceptance policies.
    • California State Universities will accept all CPL as transcribed on California Community College transcripts. Limited to 25% per 120-unit undergraduate degree.

CPL credit cannot come from courses completed at higher education institutions.

  • Degree requirements.
  • Meet prerequisites.
  • Replace a required course.
  • Substitute an optional course within the major.
  • CPL can be used for transfer as general credit, general education, and/or major requirements depending on transfer institution policy. Please note the CSU and UC Policies on CPL.

  • Units awarded via CPL cannot be counted toward the Associate Degree residency requirement for minimum number of units.
  • Unit load requirements for Selective Service Deferment.
  • Veteran Benefits.
  • Social Security Benefits.

  • You must have a current application on file with Napa Valley College.

  • You must have declared a major or area of study.

  • You cannot be currently enrolled in the course you wish to challenge.

  • You must provide evidence of your prior learning following the outlined steps on the How to Apply for CPL page.

  • Grading shall be according to the regular grading system in accordance with Administrative Procedure 4230 (Grading and Academic Record Symbols).
  • Students shall be offered a “Pass/No Pass” option, if that option is ordinarily available for the course.

Students can accept, decline, or appeal decisions related to CPL as stated in Administrative Procedure 4230 (Grading and Academic Record Symbols) and Administrative Procedure 4231 (Grade Changes).

Credit granted through CPL will be clearly identified on the student’s transcript.

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