Recognition of Prior and Non-Formal Learning

Sukurta: 15 June 2021

Vilnius University recognizes the competencies acquired through non-formal and informal learning. Students can credit their previously acquired study results and achievements in the study program of Vilnius University.

The main purpose of crediting competencies through recognition of prior and non-formal learning experiences – to expand students' independent learning opportunities and meet individual learning needs by implementing the principles of lifelong learning.

Vilnius University, implementing the procedure for crediting non-formal or informal learning competencies, follows the following general principles:

  • Accessibility. Candidates may seek recognition of the competencies they have acquired through non-formal and/or self-education, regardless of how they are acquired.
  • Flexibility. The evaluation methodology used makes it possible to assess the competencies acquired by the candidate through non-formal and/or self-education and take a decision on the crediting of study subjects/modules on the basis of the recognition of these competencies regardless of where and how they were acquired; an opportunity shall be created to individualise study paths for candidates who have entered the higher education system from various environments, such as practical environments or institutions providing non-formal education.
  • Transparency and Objectivity. The recognition of a candidate’s competencies and the crediting of study subjects/modules shall be performed avoiding the assessor’s subjective view of the competencies acquired through non-formal and/or self-education as well as of the procedures for recognising them and crediting the study subjects/modules on the basis of this recognition. The candidate shall be provided with feedback on the decision taken and given the opportunity to appeal.
  • Comparability. The recognition of competencies and the crediting of study subjects/modules shall be performed in accordance with the study objectives specified in the respective study programme offered by the University and the course/module description.
  • Voluntariness. When voluntarily deciding to participate in the process for the recognition of competencies and the crediting of study subjects/modules, the candidate is responsible for the learning achievements folder submitted for assessment, is motivated to be assessed, and is prepared for the recognition and crediting procedure.
Who can seek the recognition of non-formal or informal learning competencies? 

Competences acquired through non-formal and informal learning can be credited to all students at Vilnius University.

In which activities can the acquired competencies be recognised and credited? 

Students may seek recognition of non-formal and informal learning competencies acquired through:

  • in work activities;
  • unpaid and (or) voluntary work or practice;
  • short-term or long-term internships, courses, seminars, projects, exhibitions, etc.;
  • self-learning;
  • in other activities.

What part of the study program can be recognised and credited through the recognition of non-formally acquired competencies?

What part of the study programme can be recognised and credited through the recognition of prior and non-formal learning? 

No more than 50 percent of the study programme volume can be credited by the recognition of prior and non-formal learning procedures.

Cannot be credited the following courses (subjects/modules):

  • Final exams;
  • Final thesis;
  • Other written works, which are provided in the study programme as a separate study course (subject/module).

Procedure of Recognition