meritteringsdrøftinger

Meriteringsdrøftinger are formal discussions used in Norwegian educational and public sector contexts to assess an individual’s meritter—qualifications, competencies, and relevant experience—with the aim of determining eligibility for admission, advancement, or credit transfer. The concept rests on recognizing non-formal and informal learning alongside formal credentials.

Contexts for meriteringsdrøftinger vary. They are commonly used in higher education to evaluate prior learning and work experience for admission with advanced standing or for granting credits. In the civil service and other public bodies, meriteringsdrøftinger can form part of recruitment, promotion, or eligibility assessments, ensuring that a candidate’s documented merits are examined against defined criteria. They may also occur in professional qualification processes where experience and training are weighed against formal requirements.

Typically, the process involves preparation by the candidate, who provides documentation such as diplomas, transcripts, CV, references, portfolios, or work samples. A panel or designated evaluators conducts a structured discussion or interview, guided by predefined criteria related to education, professional experience, language proficiency, and relevant competencies. The outcome is usually a written meritteringsvurdering or recommendation that indicates whether credits, admission, or eligibility should be granted, sometimes with conditions or further steps.

Meriteringsdrøftinger are governed by institutional guidelines or national regulations to promote transparency, consistency, and equal treatment. Decisions may be subject to appeal or review if applicants believe the assessment did not adequately reflect their merits.

See also: prior learning assessment, credential evaluation, merit-based admission.