Section 3Sec./Art. 3

Definition of Terms. - For the purposes of this Act:

(a) College entrance examinations shall refer to examinations administered by private HEIs that serve as one of the criteria in the selection of prospective students for admission;

(b) Graduates and graduating students shall refer to learners who have completed or are about to complete the Enhanced Basic Education Program as provided under Republic Act No. 10533, otherwise known as the "Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013". the Accreditation and Equivalency Assessments and Certifications for Senior High School Level under the Alternative Learning System as provided under Republic Act No. 11510, otherwise known as the "Alternative Learning System Act"; and other similar educational programs or accreditation and equivalency assessments and certifications as may be identified by the Department of Education (DepEd);

(c) Higher education shall refer to the stage of formal education, or its equivalent, requiring completion of secondary education and covering programs of study leading to bachelor and advanced degrees, including associate degrees; and

(d) Private higher education institutions shall refer to HEIs duly recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) which are owned or operated by private persons, natural or juridical, whether are applying for college admission.