Accreditation of prior learning
Accreditation of prior learning (APL) is a means of crediting people for achievements, skills and knowledge that they have already gained. These may have been gained from a course or self-directed study.
In order to use APL to gain access to higher education, applicants need to match their previous learning with the requirements set by their chosen educational institution.
Credit is awarded for learning that can be demonstrated. Applicants will need to provide evidence of that learning, either in writing or through an interview.
APL is of particular benefit to mature learners who want to re-enter education or training, and those who want to reduce the overall time of a programme of study.
Source:
http://www.ucas.ac.uk/candq/apl/
