APEL.QFrance applies the process of converting experience into a national qualification (Validation des Acquis de l’Expérience)

Introduction to Validation des Acquis de l’Expérience (VAE)

1.1. Concept of VAE

Validation des Acquis de l’Expérience (VAE) is a national mechanism in France that allows individuals to convert work experience into an official qualification without having to complete a traditional training program. VAE was established by the Law on Social Modernization (Loi de Modernisation Sociale) in 2002 and is integrated into the French Education Code.

VAE operates on the principle that practical experience can be equivalent to academic knowledge. Thus, workers can demonstrate their competencies through an assessment process to receive an official certification.

(Ministère de l’Enseignement Supérieur et de la Recherche, 2025)

1.2. Objectives and Target Audience

VAE is aimed at:

• Workers with years of experience but no official qualifications.
• Individuals seeking career advancement without full-time education.
• Those looking to change careers without starting from scratch.

Eligibility for VAE:

• At least one year of professional experience in a relevant field.
• The job experience must correspond to the desired qualification.
• Applicants must prepare a VAE portfolio, including proof of practical experience.

1.3. Process and Recognition Mechanism of VAE

The VAE process consists of the following steps:

1. Identify the appropriate qualification: The applicant selects a qualification that matches their experience.
2. Prepare the VAE portfolio (Dossier de Validation): This portfolio contains evidence of work experience, professional skills, and real-world projects.
3. Assessment by the VAE jury: A professional committee evaluates the portfolio and may request an additional interview.
4. Outcome:
   • Full recognition (Validation Totale): The applicant receives the complete qualification.
   • Partial recognition (Validation Partielle): The applicant needs to complete additional modules.
   • No recognition: If experience is insufficient or not relevant.

2. APEL.Q – Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning for Qualifications

2.1. Concept of APEL.Q

APEL.Q (Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning for Qualifications) is a system similar to VAE, applied in the UK and countries following the British education system. APEL.Q allows individuals to convert work experience into academic credits or qualifications without completing a traditional education program.

APEL.Q has two main forms:

• • APEL for Credit Exemption: Allows partial or full exemption from courses within an undergraduate or postgraduate program.
  • APEL for Qualification (APEL.Q): Recognizes practical experience as a complete qualification.

(QAA UK, 2025)

2.2. Mechanism and Recognition Conditions

The APEL.Q system requires:

• A minimum of 3-5 years of relevant professional experience.
• A detailed portfolio demonstrating acquired knowledge and skills.
• Interview and assessment by a professional board.

APEL.Q Assessment Process:

1. Portfolio Evaluation: Review of practical experience through supporting documents.
2. Completion of a test or professional interview.
3. Awarding of a corresponding qualification or course exemption.

3. Comparison Between VAE and APEL.Q

Although they share many similarities, VAE and APEL.Q have some key differences.

4. Benefits of Applying VAE and APEL.Q

4.1. For Workers

• Shortens the time to obtain a qualification without starting from scratch.
• Creates a competitive advantage in the labor market.
• Facilitates career transition.

4.2. For Employers

• Accurately assesses applicants’ competencies, rather than relying solely on traditional qualifications.
• Helps businesses train and upskill employees without reducing work hours.

5. Conclusion

Both Validation des Acquis de l’Expérience (VAE) from France and APEL.Q allow workers to convert practical experience into an official qualification. However:

• VAE is more common in Francophone countries, requiring shorter experience but focusing more on practical assessment.
• APEL.Q has greater international value, enabling learners to progress to higher education or receive academic credit exemptions.

The similarity between these two systems highlights the importance of recognizing practical experience in higher education and the labor market. This opens opportunities for lifelong learning and flexible career development for workers worldwide.