Accredited Prior Learning (APL)
If you have previously studied at university level, or you have equivalent experience, you may be able to get credit for this on your course at Birkbeck:
For example, if you have previously passed a module with similar content on a programme of study taken elsewhere, you may be awarded 30 Accredited Prior Learning (APL) credits for this module and would then be exempted from the requirement to complete this module within your new programme.
The maximum number of APL credits accumulated at an institution other than the College that may be credited towards a College award is normally as follows:
- Certificate of Higher Education: 60 credits
- Diploma of Higher Education: 120 credits
- Foundation degree: 120 credits of which none may be at level 5 or above
- Honours degree: 180 credits (minimum of 120 credits at level 6 (H) must have been studied at the College)
- Graduate Diplomas: 60 credits
- Postgraduate Diploma: 60 credits
- Master's programme: 60 credits
You cannot get Accredited Prior Learning credits if you are studying for the following:
- Certificate of Continuing Education
- Graduate Certificate
- Postgraduate Certificate
To find out more about whether you qualify for APL credits, please contact the admissions team.
You must apply for exemption in writing with supporting documents.
The outcome of any application will be decided in consultation with an appropriate academic member of staff or, where appropriate, referred to the relevant Awards Committee for resolution.
