The concept of awarding degrees based on prior learning and experience is supported by international practices. For instance, the French Loi de Modernisation Sociale (Law of Social Modernization) of 2002, authorized the granting of degrees based entirely on an assessment of a candidate’s prior education and/or work experience through the process of VAE (Validation des Acquis de l’Expérience). 

Since the 19th century, universities have recognized the value of life experiences in higher education. Notably, U.S. institutions allowed military veterans to substitute their service experiences for academic credits, facilitating their educational advancement. Established in 1974, the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) has provided guidelines for converting prior life experiences into academic credits, enabling students to gain exemptions from formal study. This practice acknowledges that valuable learning occurs outside traditional classrooms, promoting inclusivity and accessibility in higher education. 

Benefits

• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Prior Experiential Learning (APEL): GIU’s VAE program acknowledges both formal education and informal learning gained through professional and personal experiences.
• No Mandatory Coursework: Degrees are awarded based on the portfolio assessment. If the portfolio does not fully meet the degree requirements, the Award Committee may recommend additional courses at GIU to fulfill the necessary criteria.
• Equal Prestige and Privileges: Degrees obtained through the VAE program carry the same recognition and benefits as traditional GIU academic degrees.

Eligibility

Applicants must have a minimum of three years of full-time work experience (or equivalent part-time), which can be accumulated continuously or discontinuously. This experience should be directly related to the field of study corresponding to the desired degree.

Who Should Apply?

• Professionals & Experts:
  Individuals with significant work experience, notable professional achievements, and contributions to their field.
• Lifelong Learners:
  Candidates who have pursued self-directed learning and have accumulated a wealth of practical knowledge over the years.
• Innovators & Community Leaders:
  Those who have demonstrated exceptional skills through social engineering, problem-solving, or creative endeavors.

Process

1. Application Submission:
   • Pre-application: Compile your portfolio showcasing your achievements, skills, and competencies pertinent to your desired degree program.
   • Submission: Fill out and submit the application form below along with your portfolio and any required documents.
2. Evaluation:
   • Review Process: Our VAE Award Committee will conduct a thorough assessment of your submitted portfolio to determine if your prior learning and experiences meet the standards of the desired degree. 
   • Additional Assessments: If necessary, the committee may request further information or clarification from the candidate to ensure a comprehensive evaluation.
3. Outcome Notification:
   • Decision Communication: Candidates are informed of the committee’s decision regarding their application. 
   • Recommendations: If the application does not fully meet the degree requirements, the committee may suggest additional courses or actions to fulfill the necessary criteria.
4. Fee Payment:
   • Tuition and Fees: Upon approval, candidates are emailed an invoice to make a one-time payment via Stripe or PayPal.
5. Degree Award:
   • Conferral of Degree: After confirming the candidate’s fee payment, the degree is officially conferred upon the candidate. The graduates receive their diplomas, signifying the recognition of their prior learning and experiences.

Fee

Our VAE fee is the same as our academic program fees, as the VAE program provides the same level of prestige and privileges. The current discounted fees for our VAE programs are:

• Bachelor’s Degree: $1,320 One-Time Fee [Special Discount]
• Master’s Degree: $660 One-Time Fee [Special Discount]
• Doctorate: $2,500 One-Time Fee [Special Discount]

Application Form