CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – A new 2025 National Student Clearinghouse report shows more than 43 million Americans have attended college but left before earning a degree or credential.

Many cite financial strain, work schedules, or family obligations as reasons for stepping away.

Now, higher education institutions are expanding programs that make it easier for adults to return without starting over.

Through credit for prior learning and transfer credit policies, students can earn academic credit for previous coursework, workplace training, military service, or other professional experience.

At the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, students can apply for Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), which evaluates college-level learning gained outside the classroom.

The university accepts cre

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