What exactly is an APL Award?
Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) is a formal process that recognizes the knowledge and skills you have gained through work experience, life experience, and non-formal training. Instead of sitting in a classroom, your career history is assessed against professional standards to grant you a formal credential.
Why should I choose your award?
We have helped thousands of people achieve their desired goals goals which without the correct certification would have been unattainable. We provide a unique service of providing non-academic APL/RPL awards based on one's past experiences and knowledge.
Do I need to sit any exams?
No. Our non-academic APL/RLP certification are all based on your achievements, so there are no classes to attend or exams to sit. We make an assessment on your experience and knowledge and provide certification to reflect this. Our top-up and training programmes are all assignment based, so once again there are no exams to site.
Is this legal?
Yes. We provide awards using a system known as the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL), sometimes also referred to as Recognition of Prior Learning (RLP). By accrediting individuals based on their knowledge and experience, we can enable them to use that certification and develop within their professional and academic career.
How will you assess my abilities?
Our assessment process is explained in the APL page. In brief, we assess your experience, knowledge and seek confirmation via referees. This, coupled with your current level of formal education, enables us to make an assessment on which level award we can provide you.
How much does this cost?
The costs vary depending upon which award level you apply for. Further information can be found on the APL page.
Do you cover all subject areas?
No, we do not. By law we do not provide awards in traditional medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, psychiatry, nursing or social work. These require specialized formal training, education and assessment.
Do I need a previous degree to apply?
No. The beauty of the APL route is that it values competency over certificates. While any previous schooling is taken into account, we primarily look at your years of professional practice, leadership roles, and technical mastery.
What kind of evidence do I need to provide?
Evidence is any documentation that proves you can do what you say you can do. Common examples include:
- Professional/Academic CV
- Any written publications
- Project reports or technical designs
- Signed testimonials from employers or clients
- Photographs of completed work (for technical trades)
- Copies of internal company training certificates.
Can I use the TCU degree to apply for higher education programmes?
Yes you can. In fact, about 60% of our students have gone on to study higher education programmes across several UK universities.
How can an employer verify my award?
Every award issued by Trinity College and University comes with a verification service. Employers, HR departments, or professional bodies can contact us anytime to receive confirmation of your award's validity.
Can I use my certificate to help me get a job?
Yes you could. As with many jobs and vacancies, having certification that consolidates your work experience and knowledge can improve your employment prospects.
How long does the process take?
The APL certification process usually takes a minimum of two working weeks, however this depends upon the required information and references to be received. We can provide an expedited service if required. Top-up degree programmes can be completed in approximately six months and the UK MBA top-up in less than a year.
Can you help with my CV?
Yes we can. We have a professional CV writing partner who can help create your perfect CV. Get in touch for more information.
Can you support me in my application?
Yes we can. If you need any help or support in your application, we will be more than happy to assist where we can.
I've lost my certificate. Can I get another copy?
Yes you can. Send an email telling us what you need to contact@trinityeducation.com with your full name and student number (if known). Remember to put 'Lost certificate' in the subject line. The cost for re-issuing documents is £85.
