In today’s competitive academic environment, students are always looking for ways to stand out on college applications. One of the most effective yet often overlooked methods is earning college credit via industry certifications. By leveraging the American Council on Education (ACE) credit recommendations and digital credentialing platforms like Credly, students and teachers can turn certifications into college credits, making students’ applications stronger while potentially reducing the time and cost of their post-secondary education.
How can I claim ACE credit as a student?
When students earn a certification, such as , they receive a digital badge through Credly. This badge is a verified, shareable credential that students can use to showcase their skills and knowledge. It’s also the key to earning ACE credit recommendation.
Once students have their badge, they can log into their Credly account and download a transcript of their certifications. This transcript is an official document that lists all the certifications a student has earned, along with any ACE credit recommendations they might be eligible for.
When applying to colleges, students can submit this alongside their high school transcript. College admissions officers will review the certifications and determine how much credit can be awarded based on the student’s achievements. This process not only strengthens a college application but can also give students a head start by allowing them to bypass certain introductory courses or start their post-secondary education with some credit hours already earned.
As a teacher or counselor, how can I help my students claim credit?
In many cases, post-secondary institutions already work with ACE Credit and have agreements in place allowing students to take advantage of this opportunity. Teachers and counselors should encourage students to look at the information available on the institution’s website.
However, teachers and counselors can also play a crucial role in helping students leverage their certifications for college credit with institutions that don’t already recognize ACE Credit recommendations. By collaborating with local colleges, they can pave the way for their students to receive credit for the certifications they earn by creating articulation agreements.
For example, if a school offers a course in Photoshop that includes an industry-recognized certification, they can work with local community college leaders to see if this certification can be counted as credit for a similar level course at the college. This involves aligning the curriculum and certification exam objectives to the college’s course requirements. Once a match is established, students who earn the certification may receive credit for the equivalent college course, saving time and money as they pursue their degrees. You can find the exam objectives for all Certiport certification exams here.
Teachers and counselors can further support their students by initiating conversations with school and college administrators to establish formal agreements. These agreements outline which certifications are eligible for credit and the specific college courses they can fulfill. By building these partnerships, teachers not only enhance their students' college applications but also contribute to a more seamless transition from high school to higher education.
Help pave the road to academic success
Leveraging certifications for college credit is a win-win for both students and teachers. Students gain a competitive edge and the potential to reduce their college costs, while teachers and counselors can see their students succeed in a tangible, impactful way. By understanding how to navigate the process, both students and teachers can unlock the full potential of industry certifications in the journey toward higher education.
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