APEL A
The Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning for Access (APEL.A) is an alternative pathway that enables individuals with relevant working experience and prior learning to gain admission into higher education programmes without following the conventional academic entry route.
The APEL.A process at UTM is coordinated through the UTM APEL Centre in accordance with the guidelines and standards established by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA).
DIPLOMA APEL A (T-4)
APEL A (T-4) is an entry route for applicants with working experience but lacking formal academic qualifications (like SPM), but have obtained an APEL certificate that allows them to pursue a Diploma’s Degree.
BACHELOR's APEL A (T-6)
APEL A (T-6) serves as an alternative entry route for applicants without a diploma, foundation, matriculation, STPM or equivalent qualification , but have obtained an APEL certificate that allows them to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree based on their prior learning and work experience.
MASTER's APEL A (T-7)
APEL A (T-7) is an entry route for applicants who do not possess a Bachelor’s degree but have obtained an APEL certificate that allows them to pursue a Master’s degree (coursework, mixed mode & research) based on their prior learning and professional experience.
PhD APEL A (T-8)
APEL A (T-8) is an entry route for applicants who do not possess a Master’s degree, but have obtained an APEL certificate that allows them to pursue a PhD (coursework, mixed mode & research) based on their prior learning and work experience.
APEL A – REQUIREMENTS & PATHWAYS
DIPLOMA APEL A (T-4)
Programme at MQF Level 4
(Diploma)
- At least 20 years of age in the year of application.
- Possess relevant work experience.
BACHELOR's APEL A (T-6)
Programme at MQF Level 6
(Bachelor, Graduate Diploma and Graduate Certificate)
- At least 21 years of age in the year of application.
- Possess relevant work experience.
MASTER's APEL A (T-7)
Programme at MQF Level 7
[Master (by Coursework, Mixed Mode and Fully Research-based)
- At least 30 years of age in the year of application.
- Possess at least an STPM/Diploma/equivalent qualification** (or those with higher qualifications, e.g., Advanced Diploma, Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma);
- Possess relevant work experience.
PhD APEL A (T-8)
Programme at MQF Level 8
(Doctorate by Coursework, Mixed Mode and Fully Research-based)
- At least 35 years of age in the year of application.
- Possess at least a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualifications (or those with higher qualifications, e.g., Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma).
- Possess at least 5 years of relevant work experience after completion of the Bachelor’s degree programme.
APPLICATION PROCESS – APEL A
APEL – FEES
STUDENT FEEDBACK
“Through the APEL pathway, I managed to pursue my master’s degree despite coming from a non-traditional academic background. UTM recognised my industry experience and gave me the opportunity to grow academically and professionally.”
“I believe that merging formal education and working experience would change my life. APEL has offered the chance for full-time working professional to pursue higher level education.”
