Accreditation of Prior Learning

Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) is the process used to assess and formally recognise learning which has taken place in the past. Such learning may have been:

  • Undertaken at another educational institution where qualifications and academic credits were achieved – referred to as prior certificated learning [APCL]
  • Achieved from experiences outside the formal education and training systems (e.g. work/ life experience), or via non credit bearing courses (e.g. in-house training) – referred to as prior experiential learning [APEL]

The APL process enables applicants to present prior learning in order to claim credit and therefore exemption from part of a course of study.

The credit or experience to be used for APL must be relevant to the applicant’s course of study.

Applicants who wish to transfer credit from another institution onto one of our courses, or from a different University of Cumbria course, should read the following:

Guidance on applying for Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning 

APCL Claim form and guidance notes

Statement of currency

For APEL cases, you should read:

Guidance on applying for Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning

APEL proposal form

You can also access the University’s Academic Regulations and Procedures regarding APL. Through the Academic Regulations and Procedures, the University meets the good practice principles.

We have some Frequently Asked Questions which may help you.

Email: apl@cumbria.ac.uk

Tel: 01524 590856

APL Officers
Admissions
University of Cumbria
Bowerham Road
Lancaster. LA1 3JD