Validation of Acquired Experience (VAE) is a process by which an individual can have their skills acquired through professional experience formally recognized. This system, established by the Law of January 17, 2002, on Social Modernization, aims to assess and validate the skills acquired over time. Unlike a simple automatic conversion of experience into a diploma or traditional training, VAE requires following a rigorous process to evaluate acquired skills and compare them to a diploma framework.

The VAE process generally lasts between 8 and 12 months. It is essential that the candidate’s professional experience is not too recent and that it is directly related to the certification sought. Upon completion of the process, the candidate can obtain a state diploma, a professional qualification such as a Professional Qualification Certificate (CQP), or a diploma issued by a higher education institution on behalf of the state.

In summary, VAE offers an alternative and legitimate way to obtain official recognition of one’s professional skills, thus allowing individuals to progress in their careers and to value their experience acquired in the field.