Logo of the Estonian Academy of Arts
Logo of the Estonian Academy of Arts
  • Academic Calendar
  • For International Students
  • Application Forms
  • Optional Subjects
  • Recognition of Prior Learning (VÕTA)
  • Tuition & Financial Aid
  • Visiting Studies in Estonia
  • Studying Abroad
  • Student Life
  • Workshops
  • Library
  • Support Services
  • Academic Staff Info
  • Life After EKA
    • StudiesRecognition of Prior Learning (VÕTA)RPL in EKA

    RPL in EKA

    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is also referred to as Accreditation of Prior and Experiential Learning (APEL)

    According to EKA Regulations of Organization of Studies (valid from 28.08.2023) a student shall submit an RPL Application-Transfer Form in the EKA study information system (ÕIS2) Tahvel https://tahvel.edu.ee/.

    By The Standard of Higher Education, it is possible to recognize one’s prior learning or working experience for passing the curricula to an unlimited amount. However, it must be noted that it is impossible to use RPL to recognize the final thesis/ portfolio.

    When applying for recognition of prior learning the applicant has to submit the prior learning experience recognition application as well as the evidence of it:

    • the proof of prior learning (the diploma and diploma supplement or transcript of records);
    • the description and outcomes of the studies;
    • in case of applying for the recognition of general artistic and/or specialty subjects the applicant also needs to present the portfolio with artwork related to the subject applied for.

    When applying for working experience recognition, the applicant must fill out the working experience recognition application and a copy of one’s employment contract (with confidential or detailed information hidden), a copy of the B-card, or a certificate from the employer. The presented document must show the beginning date of the employment ship, the name of the employer (institution), the applicant’s position, workload (h/week), and the work description.

    The applicant must also describe the work and analyze the experience and what was learned from it as well as how the experience matches the study outcomes of the subject applied for.

    Additionally, the applicant must present a portfolio showing materials or work (plans, photos, advertisements, written texts, etc.) related to working experience and matching the applied subject.

    It is not the experience of an experience that is important but what was learned from it. The learning moment of the experience is to be able to analyze the experience.

    The responsibility for the correctness and authenticity of the materials presented lies with the applicant.

    The adviser shall contact the applicant if the application form is filled in incorrectly or the documents are incomplete.

    During the recognition process, the committee may ask for additional documents or materials from the applicant. The committee may add an external expert to its work if needed.