Strengthening Assessment in the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program: Best Practices, Challenges, and Policy Directions for Evidence-Based Reform

The Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) in the Philippines provides a non-traditional academic pathway that recognizes prior learning and professional experience to grant degree equivalency for adult learners. While ETEEAP offers opportunities for inclusive higher education, inconsistencies in assessment practices and institutional support mechanisms remain significant challenges. This study investigates the best practices, implementation barriers, and support needs in ETEEAP assessment, with the goal of strengthening alignment with Republic Act No. 12124. A mixed-methods design was employed, involving survey questionnaires and open-ended responses from 285 participants, including ETEEAP assessors, students, alumni, and top-level administrators. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative responses were coded thematically to capture stakeholder perspectives. Findings show strong agreement on the relevance and reliability of current assessment tools; however, challenges persist, including assessor workload, limited digital infrastructure, and insufficient training. The study recommends the development of a unified and standardized assessment framework, institutionalized capacity-building programs, and enhanced alignment with the quality assurance mechanisms of the Commission on Higher Education. These evidence-informed recommendations contributed to the formulation of a multi-dimensional model aimed at improving the consistency, transparency, and sustainability of ETEEAP assessment practices. In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of implementing stakeholder-driven reforms to ensure ETEEAP’s continued effectiveness as a credible and inclusive mechanism for academic recognition and lifelong learning in the Philippine higher education system.