There are currently several options for acquiring a diploma, including the VAE or Validation of Acquired Experience. Indeed, nowadays, many individuals who have already practiced or are practicing some kind of profession opt for this alternative. How does it really work and who can benefit from it?
What is the validation of acquired experience or VAE?
VAE is a way to obtain a diploma or certificate without being trained in any institution. Indeed, it ensures a recognition of one's experience in the vocational world. The validation of acquired experience thus takes into account the skills obtained from work during a certain defined period of time. It can be requested on a personal basis. Nevertheless, it can also be used in case of a change of job or a request for a salary increase. It should be noted that the certificate or diploma obtained by validation of experience has the same value as those obtained through formal or continuous training.
Who can benefit from a validation of acquired experience?
The validation of acquired experience is accessible to all. Indeed, whether you are a salaried employee or not, a volunteer, a job seeker, or an individual who has carried out so-called social activities, you have the right to benefit from it. However, there is one condition. You must have at least one year's experience in the field related to the certificate or diploma requested. It should be noted that periods of internship and training are not taken into account. Thus, any person who has complied with this rule can be a beneficiary of a validation of acquired experience.
The steps involved in validating one's professional experience
The validation of professional experience can take several months. It generally begins with information from a specialist advisor and the entity responsible for awarding the certificate or diploma. This is necessary in order to know the criteria required for validation. Then, you should prepare documents proving your experience. These are evaluated during an average period of two months at the entity in charge of the certification. If the application is admissible, the next procedure consists of the production of a document highlighting his or her professional experience. A jury from the certifying entity evaluates the file and decides whether the validation will be total, partial or refused.
So, even if you did not have the opportunity to continue your higher education and you have a significant experience in a certain field, the validation of the acquired experience is the best solution to have a professional certificate.