Portfolio Structure and Content

For each claim-for-credit, you must submit proper documentation in a specific format. The structure and content for the portfolio that you will submit must include the information below:

• Portfolio Submission Cover Page
• Table of Contents
• Prior Learning Assessment Plan
• Credit Request form
• Professional Resume
• Autobiography
• Claim for credit
• References
• Supporting documents

Note: If you are writing more than one claim, the structure is the same only the Claim and biography change.

Coverpage Layout Example:

Table of Contents Example:

The Professional Resume
Students should tailor their resume to concentrate on skills and competencies that support the claim submission.
See “Earn College Credit for What You Know,” pages 110-111, for a discussion on the use of resumes in Prior Learning Portfolios.

The Autobiography
The Autobiography is a description of events or situations that afford you learning opportunities and professional growth that may not appear in your resume.  This piece does not go into detail but can offer the Assessor insights into any gaps in a student’s resume.
See “Earn College Credit for What You Know,” pages 114-115, for essay organization tips and excerpts from sample essays.

Claim for Credit Essay
Claim-for-Credit Essays are normally 7-10 pages long for each 3-credit challenge. Samples of Claims for Credit can be found within the Course Resources area of the Prior learning Course. Remember to include your references in your claim.
See “Earn College Credit for What You Know,” chapters 9 & 10, for guidance on organizing and writing your Prior Learning Claims.

Supporting Documentation
See “Earn College Credit for What You Know,” Chapter 11: Compiling Supporting Documentation and Submitting the Portfolio, for a list of types of supporting documentation.