This manual provides an overview of the concepts and issues involved in the assessment of prior learning in the context of the increasing numbers of older, nontraditional students returning to higher education. Section 1 gives background information about prior learning assessment (PLA) and defines PLA as assessment by some valid and reliable means, by a qualified specialist, of what has been learned through non-formal education/training or experience, that is worthy of credit in a course or program offered by the institution providing the credit. Section 2 describes the standards and guidelines for quality assurance of PLA. Various methods of prior learning assessment are featured in Section 3. In Section 4, the focus is on one of the most common methods of PLA--portfolio assessment. It introduces a discussion of academic and administrative issues and includes a discussion of special issues that pertain to the assessment of portfolios. Section 5 is intended for individuals or institutions who already use prior learning assessment or who will be implementing a PLA process. Section 6 lists the recommended participants in the PLA process. Appendixes list characteristics of adult learners and a sample prior learning assessment policy at one British Columbia institution. Also included are a glossary and a bibliography. (Contains 33 references.) (JB)