Research colleges and degree programs that offer prior learning credit. Programs differ in their approaches to awarding credits for life experience. However, most offer guidance in making sure you choose the program that best suits you. Be suspicious of any program that claims to give credit without any sort of vetting process; this is a tactic employed by the ever-growing ranks of malicious diploma mills.
Meet with an adviser to begin compiling a list of experiences you think warrant college-level credit. Think about your accomplishments as they apply to the program you're enrolling in. For example, if you've written a book or had pieces published in journals or magazines, you might qualify for credits in a writing program. Think creatively, too. For example, if you started your own business, you might have developed skills in leadership, workplace management, accounting and financing or any number of talents required to run a business. Your adviser will help you with this process. However, only list unique skills. Programs never give credit for common life experiences like learning to drive, organizing a family get together or managing family finances.
Prove you have a college-level understanding of the subject you wish to gain credit for. Merely having the experience isn't enough; you must demonstrate a theoretical understanding of the topic as well. This can be achieved in several ways: You might have to take an exam demonstrating competency, write an essay explaining how your experience contributed to your grasp of important concepts relating to the subject, produce letters of reference from former employers, or produce certifications, licenses or other proof of your experience.
Wait for the program to complete its evaluation of your experiences. They may decide to give you complete, partial or no credit for what you've done.