AP(E)L is a contraction of two linked initiatives:

These two terms are used to describe ways in which learners can achieve academic recognition and credit for their formal and/or informal learning experiences.

In order to obtain credit learners must be able to present evidence of their learning in relation to specific course content and this must be at the appropriate academic level. For example, if you have been running a small business for some time, and you wish to take a degree in Business Studies, then it may be possible for you to produce a portfolio of evidence of your learning, learning which mirrors some modules of the Business Studies degree. You will then be awarded credit for these modules without having to take the courses.

• Work with learners to produce a portfolio of evidence to gain admission to a particular degree, or to obtain entry with credit.

• Work within Schools and Departments to align the curriculum more closely to the lived experience of the students profile.

• The construction of credit systems which recognise the knowledge and skills which are developed in non-formal contexts, for example in volunteering.

• The codification of procedures for assessing prior formal and informal learning to bring consistency and transparency to university APL procedures.

• The enhancement of admission procedures to take account of a broader range of applicant achievement.