This paper focuses on the role of prior learning assessment in the life long learning of adults in the United States. The introduction stresses the increasing importance of life long learning in American society. The second section reviews prior learning and its assessment. Prior learning is formally defined as learning which has been acquired through non-academic life and work experience. Prior learning assessment is defined as a system of evaluating and granting college credit to adults who can articulate and document that they have achieved the objectives of a given course or set of competencies. The third section reviews the three basic approaches used to award credit for prior learning. The first approach most commonly uses standardized tests produced by either Educational Testing Services (ETS) or American College Testing Services (ACT). The second approach uses challenge examinations developed by the American Council on Education (ACE). The third approach uses a portfolio, a formal document produced by the individual being assessed which details learning acquired through non-college experiences. The final section discusses in general terms how prior learning assessment can help facilitate interest and commitment to life long learning. Contains 12 references. (JDI)