ALTERNATE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Accreditation through APEL A (T4 & T6)

The APEL A process involves a comprehensive assessment to determine if an applicant’s prior experiential learning meets the required learning outcomes for entry into a specific programme at the Diploma (T4) or Bachelor’s Degree (T6) level.

Key Components of the APEL A Assessment for T4 and T6

• Aptitude Test – A standardized test designed to assess general cognitive abilities relevant to higher education, including areas such as:-
• Numerical Literacy (Basic Mathematics and Problem-Solving)
• Language Literacy (Bahasa Malaysia and English – Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Vocabulary)
• General Knowledge, Critical Thinking, and Digital Literacy(Current Issues, Logical Reasoning, Information Sourcing)
• Portfolio Submission – Applicants are required to compile a portfolio of evidence demonstrating their prior experiential learning relevant to their desired field of study. This may include:-
• Detailed resume/curriculum vitae outlining work experience and responsibilities
• Certificates and testimonial from employers or relevant organizations
• Work samples, reports, presentations, or other relevant documents showcasing skills and knowledge
• Records of participation in training programmes, workshops, or seminars
• Self-reflective statements connecting their experiences to the learning outcomes of the desired programme

Accreditation Outcome

Successful completion of the APEL A assessment (passing both the Aptitude Test and Portfolio evaluation) will result in the issuance of an APEL A certificate by the MQA. This certificate can then be used to apply for admission to relevant Diploma (T4) or Bachelor’s Degree (T6) programmes at participating higher education institutions.

Benefits of APEL (A)

• Alternative Entry Route – Provides an opprtunity to pursue higher education for those with significant work experience but without traditional qualifications.
• Recognition of Prior Learning – Acknowledges the value of knowledge and skills acquired outside of formal education.
• Career Advancement – Enables individuals to gain formal qualifications that can enhance their career prospects.
• Increased Accessibility – Widens access to higher education for a diverse range of learners.

Cost of APEL A (T4 & T6)

The fees for the APEL A assessment are determined by the MQA and may be subject to change. The typical assessment fees are as follows:-

• APEL A T4 (Diploma Level): Approximately RM 240.00
• APEL A T6 (Bachelor’s Degree Level): Approximately RM370.00

Important Notes Regarding Costs

• These fees are payable directly by the MQA during the online application process.
• The candidate must prepare a Bank Draft with page payee “Agensi Kelayakan Malaysia”. At the back of the Bank Draft, they need to indicate their full name, IC number and types of assessment i.e (APEL T4/APEL T6)
• The candidate must register with the MQA APEL Assessment before making payment. Registration can be accessed through https://www2.mqa.gov.my/apel_a/
• Thee fees cover the cost of the aptitude test and evaluation of the submitted portfolio.
• Additional costs may be incurred if an applicant needs to retake the aptitude test or resubmit their portfolio after an unsuccessful initial attempt.
• Please refer to the MQA guidelines for the details on appeal processes and associated fees.
• Higher education institutions may have separate application fees for programme admission, which are not included in the APEL A assessment fees.

Flow for APEL A (T4 & T6)

The general flow for undergoing the APEL A assessment for Diploma (T4) and Bachelor’s Degree (T6) levels is as follows:-

1. Self-Assessment – Review the eligibility criteria for APEL A T4 or T6 (age and relevant work experience) and assess the relevance of the candidate’s prior learning to the desired programme of study.
2. Online Application with MQA – Register and apply for the APEL A assessment through the official MQA APEL portal (https://www2.mqa.gov.my/apel_a/). The candidates will need to provide their details and select the level of assessment (T4 or T6).
3. Payment of Assessment Fee – Pay the required APEL A assessment fee to the MQA through the online payment options provided on the portal.
4. Aptitude Test – The candidates will be scheduled to take an online or in-person aptitude test at a designated assessment center. The candidates are required to prepare adequately for the test based on the syllabus provided by MQA.
5. Portfolio Preparation and Submission – Upon successful completion of the aptitude test, the candidates will be required to prepare a comprehensive portfolio dicumenting their prior experiential learning relevant to their chosen field. Submit the portfolio online or as instructed by the MQA.
6. Portfolio Evaluation – The submitted portfolio will be evaluated by a panel of experienced assessors appointed by the MQA. They will assess the evidence provided against the learning outcomes expected for entry into a Diploma (T4) or Bachelor’ Degree (T6) programme.
7. Result Notification – The candidates will be notified of the outcome of their APEL A assessment (whether they have passed or not) by the MQA.
8. APEL A Certificate Issuance – If the candidates successfully pass both the aptitude test and the portfolio evaluation, they will receive an official APEL A certificate from the MQA.
9. Application to AIMST University – Use the APEL A certificate to apply for admission to the desired Diploma (T4) or Bachelor’s Degree (T6) programme.

This flow outlines how to use your APEL A certificate to apply for admission into a Diploma (T4) or Bachelor’s Degree (T6) programme at our institution.