Slovakia Passes Law Allowing University Students to Earn Credits from Alternative Learning

The National Council of the Slovak Republic approved a new Higher Education Act, introducing a wide range of reforms aimed at increasing flexibility for students, improving the attractiveness of academic careers, and strengthening the digitalization of university processes.

Under the new law, students will be able to combine different forms of education and receive credits from alternative learning paths, such as short study programs, micro-credentials, or non-formal education. Universities will also allow students to choose between completing a final internship or writing a thesis, depending on the nature of their study program.

For university teachers, the act introduces several measures to enhance the appeal of the academic profession, including the possibility of long-term contracts up to the age of 70 after nine years in a teaching position, and the implementation of a six-month sabbatical every seven years for scientific or artistic work and professional development.

The legislation also encourages the use of Artificial Intelligence as a responsible educational tool, with a requirement for students to disclose its use in their work. Two AI competence centers will be established at the Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava and the Technical University of Košice.

The act also introduces new safeguards for academic integrity and safety, allowing universities to expel students for serious disciplinary violations or endangerment of others. Support systems such as student mentoring and tutoring (“buddy systems”) will become mandatory to facilitate the integration of new students into the university environment.

Changes also affect the Slovak Accreditation Agency, replacing nominations with open selection procedures, and ensuring that two student representatives sit on its executive board in line with European standards.

Additionally, the law defines protections for intellectual property created by university or the Slovak Academy of Sciences employees, ensuring that their authorship is legally recognized.