For a Lifelong Learning of Adults ACADEMIC CREDIT BANK SYSTEM
In accordance with its mandate, the Academic Credit Bank System accredits a variety of educational programs, with the goal of guaranteeing open and flexible access to a good quality of continuing education. The ACBS also grants recognition to learner's diverse learning experiences, including prior course credits and various forms of learning.
Credits are acquired primarily from education and job training institues, through part-time enrollment, certificate acquisition, and passing bachelor's degree exam for self-education or courses for exam exemption.
Nonformal educational institutes are formally evaluated and, if successful, given approval as a ACBS- accredited institute offering programs and courses, which can be counted as university or college equivalent credits. These institutes are evaluated on the basis of instructors, facilities and curricula:
Institutes Offering Accredited Education Programs are as follows:
Students who wish to receive a degree must apply for registration by completing a Student Registration Form and a Credit Approval Application Form. Each of these forms must be submitted to either NILE or a Provincial Office of Education. Once registered, each student accumulate credits, until the point of graduation.
The Academic Credit Bank System is equipped with a comprehensive information service system which enables learners across the nation to gain access to ACBS information and materials. This computer-based system provides learners with access to their personal record and ACBS credit history. Additional information on accredited courses and standardized curriculum is also provided.
After completing the necessary credit requirements (140 credits for a bachelor's degree, 80 credits for a two-year associate diploma, and 120 credits for a three-year associate diploma), graduation candidates must submit a Degree Application to either NILE of their Provincial Offices of Education.
These applications are reviewed by the Screening Committee for Academic Credit Accreditation at NILE, and then forwarded to the MOE for final approval. Candidates can be awarded a degree by the MOE or they may receive a degree directly from a university or college by the Act on Recognition of Credit, etc. In the latter case, candidates must meet the specific degree requirements of the awarding institution (e.g., over 84 course credits for universities and over 48 course credits for two-year colleges, over 65 course credits for three-year colleges).