QuestionsQuestions (TESDA CIRCULAR NO. 017-00)
It implements the Unified TVET Program Registration and Accreditation System (UTPRAS) through Omnibus Amendatory Guidelines, as an integral part of TVET reforms under TESDA Board Resolution No. 98-09.
Republic Act No. 7796 (TESDA Act of 1994) empowers TESDA to establish and maintain a system of accrediting, coordinating, integrating, monitoring, and evaluating formal and non-formal technical vocational education and training programs.
All TVET programs offered by public and private institutions, including enterprise-based training centers if they are fee-charging and open to the public; it covers programs in industrial trades and crafts, agriculture, fishery, services, home industries, among others.
No. Apprenticeship programs undertaken by private enterprises are not covered by these guidelines; they must be authorized based on existing apprenticeship guidelines. Compliance with those guidelines is considered as having the effect of UTPRAS registration.
Generally, no; they are not subject to registration unless prescribed by the TESDA Board.
It is anchored on a competency-based system using the TESDA Occupation Qualification and Certification System (TOQCS). The four qualification levels are National Certificate I (basic), National Certificate II (intermediate/craftsman), National Certificate III (advanced/technical), and National License (highest/master technician).
Program adjustment stays within one TOQCS qualification level, or from one higher to a lower one. If an institution develops the entire set of competencies for a particular level, it is classified as an NC I or NC II program as applicable. If it develops only some competencies within one level, it is classified as a program leading to NC I or NC II.
TVET institutions must pay an Application Fee of P1,000 upon filing of the Letter of Application for program registration.
An additional registration fee of P1,000 is payable prior to the issuance of a Certificate of TVET Program Registration, whether the program is covered by appropriate training regulations or not.
PESFA scholars may enroll only in programs registered under UTPRAS, including those already registered under the original guidelines. CFDF scholarship slots are extended only to teachers/instructors in private TVET institutions whose programs are registered. Similar institutional incentives require UTPRAS registration as a precondition.
It must file the Letter of Application with the TESDA Provincial Office that has jurisdiction over the institution’s area of operation, at least six (6) months before the institution will offer the program, or within two (2) years from the date of promulgation of appropriate training regulations for programs under permit or recognition.
A checklist is accomplished by the Provincial Office. Only applications with complete documents and the non-refundable application fee are officially received for evaluation. Incomplete application shall be promptly returned to the applicant institution.
Within three (3) months from receipt of the application.
Certificates issued for programs covered by existing training regulations are identified as Registration Certificate (WTR) with training regulations; those not covered are labeled Registration Certificate (NTR) no training regulations.
The program may be adjusted to develop lower level competencies or one or a number of modules of employable competencies. If the adjusted program meets requirements, the appropriate certificate is granted.
An application shall be denied if the institution fails to meet the minimum standards for the program. The application fee is forfeited to underwrite administrative costs.
Denial is subject to appeal to the Office of the Director General, TESDA. The Director General’s decision is final and executory.
Sanctions under Section 68, Chapter I, Title V of the Education Act of 1982: upon conviction, a fine of not less than P2,000 nor more than P10,000 and/or imprisonment up to two (2) years, at court discretion. If committed by a corporation, the school head and responsible persons are equally liable; for fraud/deceit, unauthorized operation, or unauthorized advertisements, TESDA may revoke the certificate after due process.