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Recognition of Prior Learning

UTBM trains engineers who are quickly ready for the workforce and particularly adaptable to technological advancements and societal changes. Its programs are grounded in research and commercialization.

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Practical Information

VAE - Recognition of Prior Learning

Target Audiences

Anyone engaged in the workforce is entitled to have their prior learning—particularly professional experience—recognized toward the attainment of a degree, a vocational qualification, or a certificate of recognition. The Recognition of Prior Learning (VAE) program is therefore open to anyone, regardless of their status, as part of an individual initiative. This includes employees on fixed-term or permanent contracts, as well as temporary workers; job seekers; and volunteers with experience in nonprofit organizations or labor unions. The only requirement is to demonstrate experience directly related to the desired credential, with no minimum duration requirement.

Before completing the application for admission, all applicants are encouraged to contact the Continuing Education Office to fully understand the process, requirements, and opportunities available at UTBM, as well as to get an initial assessment of their proposed course of study. To do so, please contact Corinne Mirabelat corinne.mirabel@utbm.fr or formation.continue@utbm.fr. 

Application

The applicant submits the eligibility application package—which includes Form CERFA 12818*02 and the request for additional documents—via email. This eligibility application package serves as the basis for assessing the eligibility of the application and the feasibility of the VAE project. The applicant requests a hearing with the eligibility committee and receives an acknowledgment of receipt for the eligibility application package, followed by a notice of the hearing with the eligibility committee.
If the application is deemed admissible, the applicant may then prepare a complete VAE application package. The purpose of this package is to demonstrate that the applicant’s skills align with those listed in the standards for the targeted degree.

Support

Support is available at UTBM to assist with the preparation of this application.

Validation Dossier

It generally takes candidates several months to develop their reflections, analyze their skills, and compile the complete application package. Once the application is complete, the candidate submits it to the Continuing Education Department in both hard copy and PDF format. The candidate receives an acknowledgment of receipt, after which the Continuing Education Department schedules the VAE review panel and sends the candidate a notification to appear. The review panel, composed of UTBM faculty members and professionals, deliberates after interviewing the candidate and makes a decision on the VAE application.
Our Available Degrees
application form (.pdf)
application form (.docx)
VAE Fact Sheet
Key Figures - Indicators
FranceVAE National Portal

testimonials

The VAE process is very demanding and time-consuming; it requires considerable motivation and commitment. It is also a very rewarding experience, which allowed me not only to earn the degree but also to build my self-confidence and add a new dimension to my professional career. The support from UTBM and the high-quality guidance I received were crucial in helping me better understand the jury’s expectations and present my background in a coherent way. I highly recommend the VAE; it’s a wonderful journey, provided you’re well-prepared and well-supported.

Antonin L.

Engineer via the VAE program, graduated on July 9, 2025

I was truly happy to go through this process at UTBM. I was able to develop new skills while showcasing my existing ones, thanks to the excellent support I received. The people I worked with were always responsive, patient, and supportive. I highly recommend this process to anyone who is motivated.

Benjamin V.

Engineer via the VAE program, graduated on March 31, 2022

The VAE journey is a walk toward an ambitious goal. You come face to face with yourself, traverse vast landscapes, and experience both challenges and victories. I had to find my own pace. I discovered I had the endurance and perseverance to see it through. Along the way, I met some truly wonderful people: my mentors. They understood me and enriched my experience. They encouraged and guided me to push my limits. This experience was a learning journey, both in terms of self-discovery and in building technical knowledge. I set an ambitious goal for myself and celebrated my victory. Thank you, UTBM, and hats off to my two mentors!

Sylvain B.

Engineer via the VAE program, graduated on August 23, 2023

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