RPL in EKA

RPL at EKA (Recognition of Prior Learning at the Estonian Academy of Arts)

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) at EKA allows you to apply your previous studies and experience towards your study programme.

RPL is regulated by the EKA Study Regulations and is based on assessing whether your prior learning meets the learning outcomes of specific courses.

How RPL works at EKA

RPL is always applied for specific courses within your study plan.

You submit one application per semester, which may include:

• multiple courses
• both prior studies and prior experience

Each part of the application is assessed separately based on the learning outcomes of the course.

Recognition of prior studies

If you have completed courses at another institution, your application is assessed by comparing:

• course content
• learning outcomes
• workload and level

You need to provide:

• official transcript
• course descriptions

Recognition of prior experience

If you apply based on work experience or other non-formal learning, you need to demonstrate your learning.

This includes:

• describing your role, responsibilities and activities
• providing a self-analysis explaining what you have learned
• showing how your learning matches the course learning outcomes

You must also provide evidence of your experience, such as:

• employment confirmation
• portfolio
• work samples or certificates

Assessment

Applications are assessed by the RPL committee.

The committee evaluates:

• relevance of prior learning
• level of knowledge and skills
• correspondence to learning outcomes

Additional information, an interview or a practical task may be requested if needed.

Important to know

• RPL is based on the assessment of prior learning and its correspondence to the learning outcomes of the course
• it is not the experience itself that is assessed, but the knowledge and skills acquired through it
• each application is evaluated based on the submitted evidence
• additional assessment methods (such as an interview or practical task) may be used if needed
• the possibility of recognition depends on the course and its learning outcomes
• final theses cannot be recognised through RPL
• prior learning must be relevant and meet the required academic level

Further information

Applications are submitted through the EKA study information system (Tahvel).

For step-by-step instructions and application guidelines, please see:
For Students | EKA wiki – RPL or Recognition of Prior Learning and Work Experience (VÕTA)