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POLICY STATEMENT

Prince Sultan University recognizes the academic achievements of students who have completed advanced courses prior to joining the University and provides clear guidelines for evaluating Advanced Placement (AP) equivalencies.

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BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION

This policy ensures that students’ prior academic achievements are appropriately recognized and considered for equivalency, contributing positively to their academic progress at Prince Sultan University.

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SCOPE AND PURPOSE

This policy applies to all incoming students and outlines the procedures for evaluating and granting equivalencies for Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses.

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PRINCIPLES OF THE POLICY

Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) equivalencies are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Students requesting equivalency must submit official transcripts, which are reviewed by the concerned Department Chair and College Dean. Final recommendations are submitted to the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs for approval.

English Placement Exam

• Students are placed in English Preparatory Year Program (PYP) through the English Placement Test (EPT) administered by Qiyas.
• Students with CEFR A1 level are enrolled in the Intensive English Program (IEP).
• High-performing students may be exempted from one or more PYP courses through PSU English Promotion Test or international tests such as IELTS or TOEFL-IBT.
• Students scoring 80% or higher in EPT are eligible for the promotion test (new students only).
• Students with IELTS or TOEFL-IBT take a Computing Skills Placement Exam, and preparatory computing courses may be waived based on performance.

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DEFINITIONS

Promotion Examination: Examinations conducted by the University to assess eligibility for course exemption.

Preparatory Year: A preparatory program designed to equip new students with the skills required for undergraduate study, lasting from one to three semesters.

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RESPONSIBILITIES AND IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES

• The Deanship of Admission and Registration coordinates with relevant departments to integrate AP or IB equivalencies into academic records and manage placement exams.
• The Preparatory Year Program (PYP) Department evaluates AP/IB equivalencies and oversees English placement procedures.

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PROCEDURES FOR HANDLING POLICY VIOLATION

Any violation of this policy is addressed by the appropriate university authorities in accordance with established procedures and regulations.

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REFERENCES

• The Undergraduate Study and Examinations By-Law and the Rules of Implementation for Prince Sultan University – 2023