Other Prior Learning

Heartland Proficiency Examinations
The College offers proficiency examinations for several courses. Credit earned through
examinations cannot duplicate credit earned in college course work and cannot be for a course
in which students received a grade of F, W, or I at Heartland. Exams will not be administered to
students who have passed a higher-level course than the one for which the proficiency is
requested. Minimum scores outlined by the instructional division must be achieved before credit
will be awarded.

Portfolio
Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) awards credit for learning completed outside of the classroom. PLA evaluates knowledge acquired within the context of specific HCC courses. While assessment processes for PLA are established by individual departments, all processes should contain documentation demonstrating learning equivalent to the outcomes of the course. The College reserves the right to award credit for PLA on a case-by-case basis.

Courses from Another College
Credits may be granted for courses completed at another regionally accredited
institution. Official transcripts must be submitted directly to Heartland from the originating
college before credit will be awarded. Credit will only be granted for courses that pertain to the
students’ program of study at Heartland.

Illinois State Seal of Biliteracy
Heartland awards credit to students who present an official Illinois high school transcript identifying the Seal of Biliteracy or Commendation toward Biliteracy within three academic years after graduating from high school. Students may be granted a max of 15 credits or 25% of their program plan (whichever is higher). Students will be awarded as follows: 

• Commendation towards Biliteracy is equiavlent to the first two semesters of college level foreign language for a total of eight credits. 
• Seal of Biliteracy is equivalent to the third or fourth semesters of college level foreigh language for a total of eight credits.