Recognize Learning
Acquired through work experience, life experiences, or informal training
APEL - Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning
“WE RECOGNISE YOUR LEARNING FROM EXPERIENCE”
Section titled ““WE RECOGNISE YOUR LEARNING FROM EXPERIENCE””APEL (Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning) is a systematic process that involves the identification, documentation, assessment and accreditation of prior experiential learning.
Used as a mechanism to recognise prior experiential learning for the purpose of:
- Programme entry requirements
- Awards of credits for courses within an accredited programme of study
- Award towards a specific qualification under various Malaysian Qualifications Framework (MQF) levels
Why APEL?
Section titled “Why APEL?”APEL process encourages individuals to continuously improve their knowledge, receive a formal qualification certificate that will secure them a better career advancement/prospect without having to go through the conventional learning process.
UniKL is planning to become an APEL.A Assessment Centre (AAC) to support Lifelong Learning aspiration by Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) Malaysia.
Lifelong learning culture will enable learners to fabricate better career growth through improved academic qualification of society. Nevertheless, APEL provides opportunity to multiple entry pathways to higher qualifications improving quality of life.
Types of APEL
Section titled “Types of APEL” Access/Admission
APEL.A recognises prior experiential learning for the purpose of UniKL’s programmes admission towards a specific qualification under various MQF levels. Certificate of APEL.A allows learners to embark in any accredited programmes of the HEIs.
What is APEL.A?
Section titled “What is APEL.A?”A systematic assessment process to gain entry to higher education programmes without formal academic qualifications.
Entry Levels
Section titled “Entry Levels”| MQF Level | Programme Level | Minimum Age |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | Bachelor (T-6) | 21 years |
| 7 | Master (T-7) | 30 years |
Assessment Components
Section titled “Assessment Components”The systematic process involves:
Based On:
- Formal learning
- Non-formal learning
- Informal learning
- Life experience
- Short courses
- Work experience
Assessment Methods:
-
Aptitude Test
- Bahasa Melayu
- English Language
- Numerical Literacy and General Knowledge
- Critical Thinking and Digital Literacy
-
Portfolio
- Evidence of prior experiential learning according to the format or rubric set by MQA
-
Interview (For T-7 Master level only)
- Discussion of experience and learning
-
Research Intent (For T-7 Master level only)
- Proposal of the intended research topic
APEL.A Fees
Section titled “APEL.A Fees”Effective from 1 January 2024
| MQF Level | Programme Level | Local Applicant | International Applicant |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | Bachelor (T-6) | RM 370 | USD 500 |
| 7 | Master (T-7) | RM 560 | USD 750 |
Programme Access
Section titled “Programme Access”- T-6: Access to Bachelor programmes without formal qualifications of SPM, PMR, STPM
- T-7: Access to Master programmes with STPM/Diploma/equivalent
UniKL is offering:
- 75 programmes with APEL.A entry for T-6
- 31 Master programmes entry for T-7
APEL.A Application Process
Section titled “APEL.A Application Process”- Self-Assessment - Applicant performs self-assessment exercise
- Eligibility Check - Verify if eligible for APEL.A
- MQA Portal Application - Apply at https://www2.mqa.gov.my/apel_a/
- University Assignment - Receive email and link to UniKL as ACC if successful
- Appeal Option - Appeal to MQA if unsuccessful
- UniKL Guidance - Communicate with UniKL’s APEL Unit representative
- Screening Results - Receive results and payment details
- Fee Payment - Pay fees to UniKL
- Aptitude Test - Sit for assessment
- Results Approval - University approves results
- Re-sit Option - Appeal if fail (fee as stipulated in MQA website)
- Portfolio Submission - Submit portfolio and/or research intent and/or attend presentation/interview
- Final Approval - University approves final results
- Results - Applicant obtains APEL.A results
- Re-submission Option - Appeal if fail (fee as stipulated in MQA website)
- Certificate - Receive APEL.A certificate from MQA
- Programme Registration - Register into UniKL bachelor or master programmes
Credit
APEL.C (Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning for Credit) is a mechanism that awards credits for prior experiential learning towards a specific course in an accredited program.
What is APEL.C?
Section titled “What is APEL.C?”It recognizes an individual’s relevant and specific prior learning experiences, both informal and non-formal, that are pertinent to the course. The credit award is based on the knowledge and skills acquired through these experiential learning opportunities, providing formal recognition and facilitating progression within the program of study.
Benefits of APEL.C
Section titled “Benefits of APEL.C”Reduce Redundancy
Eliminate redundant learning for students
Encourage Admission
Of adult learners to higher education programs
Reduce Cost and Time
To complete study
How It Works
Section titled “How It Works”Assessment
Assessment of relevant work experience
Evaluation
Evaluation of skills and knowledge
Credit Award
Credit awarded for equivalent learning
Benefits
- Reduced course requirements
- Shorter programme duration
- Lower overall costs
Qualification
Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning for Qualifications (APEL.Q) offers a pathway to earn formal recognition for your prior learning experiences and skills, allowing you to obtain academic qualifications.
What is APEL.Q?
Section titled “What is APEL.Q?”This process acknowledges the value of knowledge gained outside traditional academic settings, such as:
- Work experience
- Independent study
- Professional development
- Life experiences
- Industry training
Who Should Consider APEL?
Section titled “Who Should Consider APEL?” Access/Admission
- Experienced Professionals - 5+ years relevant work experience
- No Formal Qualifications - SPM/STPM or equivalent
- Career Changers - Seeking formal education for new career
- Mature Learners - 21+ years (Bachelor), 30+ years (Master)
- Lifelong Learners - Committed to continuous improvement
Credit
- Currently Enrolled Students - Already in UniKL programmes
- Relevant Experience - Substantial work experience in field
- Short Course Graduates - Completed relevant training
- Professional Certificate Holders - Industry certifications
- Practitioners - Working in related field
Recognition of Learning From
Section titled “Recognition of Learning From”Formal Learning
- Previous education certificates
- Professional qualifications
- Training certifications
- Academic credentials
Non-Formal Learning
- Workplace training
- Professional development courses
- Industry workshops
- Seminars and conferences
Informal Learning
- Self-directed learning
- On-the-job experience
- Mentorship
- Volunteer work
Work Experience
- Job responsibilities
- Projects completed
- Skills developed
- Leadership roles
- Problem-solving achievements
Assessment Process
Section titled “Assessment Process”Portfolio Development
Section titled “Portfolio Development”Your portfolio should include:
- Personal Statement - Your learning journey
- Work Evidence - Certificates, testimonials, reports
- Skills Documentation - Competency demonstrations
- Learning Reflections - What you learned from experiences
- Supporting Documents - References, project samples
Evidence Required
Section titled “Evidence Required”- Employment letters and references
- Job descriptions and achievements
- Training certificates
- Project documentation
- Professional certifications
- Performance appraisals
- Skills assessments
Assessment Methods
Section titled “Assessment Methods”- Portfolio Review - Documented evidence evaluation
- Aptitude Tests - Knowledge and skills assessment
- Interviews - Discussion of learning and experience
- Practical Demonstrations - Skills application
- Research Proposals - For postgraduate entry
Benefits of APEL
Section titled “Benefits of APEL”Programme Access
Entry without formal qualifications
Time Savings
Reduced study duration
Cost Savings
Fewer courses to complete
Career Advancement
Formal qualification for experience
Recognition
Validation of learning and skills
Confidence
Acknowledgment of achievements
Workforce Development
Upskilled employees
Employee Retention
Professional development opportunities
Productivity
Enhanced capabilities
Recognition
Valuing employee experience
Succession Planning
Qualified internal talent
Preparing for APEL
Section titled “Preparing for APEL”Self-Assessment
- Identify Learning - What have you learned from experience?
- Map to Programme - How does it relate to target qualification?
- Gather Evidence - What documents prove your learning?
- Reflect - How has this learning shaped you?
APEL Unit Guidance
Expert advice and support
Orientation Sessions
Understanding the process
Portfolio Workshops
Document preparation
Assessment Preparation
Test and interview prep
Success Stories
Section titled “Success Stories”APEL has helped many working adults:
- Gain university entry without SPM/STPM
- Complete degrees in shorter time
- Advance to management positions
- Change careers with recognized qualifications
- Achieve lifelong learning goals
How to Get Started
Section titled “How to Get Started”- Visit MQA portal: https://www2.mqa.gov.my/apel_a/
- Complete self-assessment
- Submit online application
- Follow process steps outlined above
- Enroll in UniKL programme
- Contact APEL Unit
- Submit credit transfer application
- Provide evidence of prior learning
- Undergo assessment
- Receive credit decision
Frequently Asked Questions
Section titled “Frequently Asked Questions”Q: Can I apply for APEL if I don’t have SPM?
A: Yes, APEL.A is specifically designed for individuals without formal academic qualifications but with substantial work experience.
Q: How much experience do I need?
A: Minimum age requirements: 21 years for Bachelor (T-6), 30 years for Master (T-7), with relevant work experience.
Q: Can APEL reduce my study time?
A: Yes, APEL.C can award credits for prior learning, reducing the number of courses you need to complete.
Q: Is APEL recognized by employers?
A: Yes, APEL leads to the same UniKL qualifications as traditional entry routes, recognized by employers and professional bodies.
Q: What if my APEL application is unsuccessful?
A: You can appeal or resubmit with additional evidence as per MQA guidelines.