What is APEL?
Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) is a systematic process that involves the identification, documentation and assessment of prior experiential learning, i.e., knowledge, skills and attitudes, to determine the extent to which an individual has achieved the desired learning outcomes, for access to a programme of study and/or award of credits. APEL process generally involves the assessment of experiential learning, including those which have not previously been assessed or credit rated. This learning may be acquired through formal, non-formal and informal means, including formal schooling, work and life experiences, training, independent study, voluntary work, hobbies and family experiences.
Why APEL?
APEL was introduced due to MQA’s recognition of an individual’s informal learning experiences (through professional development). By evaluating an individual’s informal learning experiences, the APEL initiative allows individuals to progress academically within the context of lifelong learning, improves the mobility of students and increases participation of adult learners.
Who is eligible for APEL?
APEL is eligible to both Malaysian and international* applicants.
*subject to terms and conditions specific to each APEL provision
What are the APEL processes available for me?
APEL is divided into APEL for Access (APEL.A) which discerns your experiential learning to gain access to a higher education provider’s programme and APEL for Credit Award (APEL.C) which discerns your experiential learning against target learning outcomes for the purpose of credit award.
APEL.A evaluates the experiential learning one gains from formal, informal and non-formal learning to ascertain an individual’s readiness to join a programme of study.
APEL.C provides the mechanism to recognize the individual’s prior experiential learning that is relevant and specific to a course within a programme of study. The credit award is granted on the basis of knowledge and skills acquired through non-formal and informal learning.
