UTP-USM APEL

Overview

Welcome to the UTP-USM APEL.A T7 platform. Our collaboration between Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) and Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) offers a pathway to a master's degree by recognising your prior learning and experience. This programme helps professionals gain academic recognition and advance their education, both locally and internationally.

What is APEL.A?

Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning for Access (APEL.A) is a systematic process involving the identification, documentation, and assessment of prior experiential learning for admission into a programme under various Malaysian Qualifications Framework (MQF) levels.

APEL.A provides opportunities for individuals with work experience but lacking academic qualifications to pursue studies in Higher Education Institutions.

How it Works

Through a comprehensive assessment, your skills, knowledge, and experience are evaluated, providing you with the opportunity to gain recognition for your prior learning and apply it towards your educational goals.

Eligibility

At least 30 years of age in the year of application.
Possess a recognised Diploma/equivalent qualification* (or those with higher qualifications, e.g., Advanced Diploma, Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma) in relevant discipline.
Possess relevant work experience.
Pass the APEL.A assessment for the Master by coursework at UTP.

*For International Qualifications Equivalency, learners may refer to the document entitled The List of Entry Qualifications for International Student on the MQA website.

Assessment

1. Aptitude Test (40% weightage)

This 2 hour 30 minute test assesses your knowledge and competencies in areas like math, language proficiency, and general knowledge/critical thinking.
The difficulty level is equivalent to the first year of a bachelor's degree program and you need to score at least 50% to pass.

2. Portfolio Assessment (40% weightage)

You'll need to prepare a portfolio based on the format provided in the APEL Guidebook. This will document your prior learning and experiences.
You'll need to present your portfolio to a panel of assessors and explain it in detail. There's a 30-day window to complete this assessment after submission.
Passing score is also 50%.

3. Interview (20% weightage)

A structured interview will be conducted to assess your skills and knowledge for undertaking tertiary studies.
The interview will be 30 minutes but may vary depending on the situation.
You need to score at least 50% to pass this section.

Notes:

The above assessment information serves as a reference and is subject to change by MQA without further notice. Applicants are advised to contact the UTP office for the most recent updates from time to time.
Assessments will be conducted by two (2) appointed trained panel members who are knowledgeable about the assessment instruments and experts in the relevant field.
In addition to the assessment panel, a moderator with appropriate competence will be appointed to ensure the validity and reliability of the assessment instruments.

Fees

RM560 for Malaysian candidate.
USD560 for International candidate.

Fees are subject to change without prior notice. Please contact CGS for further information.

Application Process

What is the APEL.A Application Process?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I apply for APEL.A at UTP?

A: You can apply for APEL.A at MQA's portal and select Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) as the PPA of your choice. You will receive an automated email to register at USM APEL Website. Click on that link and fill up the required fields. APEL Unit of USM will contact you after receiving your submission.

Q: When can I apply for APEL.A at UTP?

A: You can apply for APEL.A anytime and be placed into the next nearest APEL Intake.

Q: Does APEL.A Certificate have a validity of period?

A: Yes, each APEL.A Certificate is valid for 5 years from the date your APEL.A assessment results is released.

Q: Can I use APEL.A Certificate to apply for jobs?

A: No, the APEL.A Certificate can only be used to fulfil the entry requirements of the programme of interest.

Q: When can I apply for APEL.A certification to enrol in UTP's postgraduate programmes?

A: You can apply for APEL.A certification at any time throughout the year. APEL.A certification will enrol you into relevant UTP's Master by Coursework programme. However, assessments for APEL.A certification are held monthly, so please contact the CGS office for more information on assessment dates.