On this page you can find information about how to accredit previous studies or validate previously acquired competences. At Arcada, we offer two different methods for recognising prior learning as part of your degree. You can either apply for accreditation of previously completed higher education studies or validation of acquired competences. On this page, you will find information to help you determine which method suits your situation best.

General Principles

  • Only studies/competences that are required for the degree can be accredited.
  • It is important to apply for accreditation/validation of competences you have acquired before you begin your studies. By doing so, you will receive quicker information about your study plan for the academic year, as well as information on which courses you do not need to complete. If you have many courses you wish to accredit/validate, you should create an individual study plan together with your study counsellor before submitting your application.
  • Studies completed more than 10 years ago must be validated.
  • The accreditation of completed higher education studies and the validation of competences is initiated by the student, and it is the student's responsibility to provide sufficient documentation to support their application.

Accreditation of Previous Studies

Accreditation means that previously completed higher education studies are recognised as part of the degree you are currently pursuing.

This applies to you if you:

  • Have completed higher education studies at another university or university of applied sciences in Finland or abroad
  • Can provide proof of completed studies with an official transcript or via My Studyinfo

Validation of Competences

According to Arcada’s degree statutes, you as a student may apply for validation of competences included in your study plan that you have acquired, either formally or informally, before or during your studies through:

  • work experience
  • active participation in association or organisational activities
  • individual course certificates or diplomas not completed at a higher education institution
  • a competence based on a combination of several different courses
  • competences acquired in other ways
  • a thesis or practical training completed within a previous education programme

As a student, you are responsible for demonstrating your competences by providing sufficient documentation (certificates, transcripts, portfolio, etc.) for the assessment of your competences.

Study coordinators

029 4282 535

studiearenden@arcada.fi

Profilbild saknas

We help with (among other things):

  •     Discount cards (HSL and KELA meal vouchers) NOTE! With a student card you get these benefits. We recommend that you use the HSL app.
  •  Academic year registration
  •  Study rights
  •  Application for a diploma
  •  Credits for external achievements
  •  Forms and certificates
  •  Change of first or last name and personal identity code

Visiting hours in the library during summer by appointment (e-mail to studentaffairs@arcada.fi) and telephone hours (note that you can send us an e-mail at any time): 

Monday  No visiting hours
Tuesday    No visiting hours
Wednesday No visiting hours
Thursday  12-14 telephone hours (no telephone hours in July)
Friday   No visiting hours

FAQ

Here you can find some of the most common questions about accreditation and the application process.

Validation of Competences

You can request validation of such competences in your study plan that you have informally/formally acquired before or during your studies.