Alternative Learning System: An Education Within Reach

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Education is due to everyone.  There should be no limitations when giving this right. Whether you are a dropout, want to pursue study, or simply wanting to read and write his name, the Alternative Learning System (ALS) can give you a second chance. 

When you cannot access formal learning in schools, you can turn to ALS. This nationwide program provides a non-formal education to persons who want to learn.

How does it work?

ALS targets out-of-school children, youth, and adults who need basic literacy skills. If you are interested in the system, you will also go through a screening process. You will take the Functionality Literacy Test (FLT) to determine the teaching and learning plan to use.

ALS has two non-formal learning programs, these are:

• The basic literacy program (BLP) for illiterate
• Continuing Education: Accreditation and Equivalency (A&E) for elementary and high school drop-outs.

As an ALS student, you must attend 10 months of school or 800 hours in the classroom.  It is a module-based learning system and a facilitator shall handle the class. You are given a schedule and quizzes, too. After some months, you will take the Accreditation and Equivalency test (AET). Passing the test would mean a diploma and a chance to enroll in college.

According to the Department of Education’s (DepEd), to qualify for the ALS AET, you must be:

• An elementary dropout at least 11 years old on or before the day of test
• A high school dropout at least 15 years old on or before the day of the test
• Non-passers of past ALS A&E test/s
• Learners or completers of the ALS programs
• Current students enrolled in the formal school system who are two years older than the regular school age (13 years old for elementary level, and 17 years old for the secondary level)

You only need to submit the following:

• latest 2″x2″ ID photos; original and photocopy of any of the following (valid driver’s license, valid passport, voter’s ID, SSS/GSIS ID, Postal ID or NBI clearance).
• If you can’t submit the above requirements, you may forward a photocopy and present the original copy of any of the following documents: authenticated birth certificate; latest report card (form 138/form 137); or Barangay certification with photo.

If you missed formal school, you can still finish elementary or high school.  DepEd’s ALS program will give you the hope to go to college and be a productive youth. What’s more, test registration, certificate of rating, and diploma are free of charge.