Bill > LB1164

This bill, known as the Prior Learning Act, aims to allow students in Nebraska to earn college credit for knowledge and skills they've already acquired outside of traditional coursework. The Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education (Commission) will be responsible for approving a list of "prior learning examinations" and setting a "cut score," which is the minimum score needed on an exam to receive college credit from a Nebraska public college or university. These examinations can include those associated with high school courses, international curriculum frameworks, or those not tied to specific high school programs. By September 1, 2026, the Commission must publish this list and cut scores online. Subsequently, by October 1, 2026, all Nebraska public postsecondary institutions must develop and implement policies to award academic credit for these exams, prioritizing credit towards general education and major requirements, and ensuring these credits are recorded on transcripts and transferable. Institutions can, with Commission approval, set higher minimum scores than the established cut scores if justified by student performance data. By October 15, 2026, institutions must submit their policies to the Commission, which will then create a statewide summary. Starting December 31, 2027, and annually thereafter, institutions will report data on how many students received credit, how many credits were awarded, and how those credits were applied, which the Commission will then compile and make public. The Commission is also empowered to create necessary rules and regulations to implement this act.

Education

https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=63167