Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process designed to recognise the skills students have obtained from work experiences, previous formal and informal study, and life experiences.  The main focus of RPL is the learning outcomes of those experiences, not how, when or where the learning occurred.

Recognition of Prior Learning provides formal recognition of existing skills and knowledge and can result in a full qualification, or a statement of attainment for partial completion of a qualification.  RPL cannot be obtained for part of a subject.  You must show that you satisfy all performance criteria to obtain credit for the whole subject.

Who can apply for Recognition of Prior Learning?

Anyone who wishes to have their skills recognised.

How does Recognition of Prior Learning Work?

Essentially RPL involves providing evidence to establish that your current knowledge and skills match particular units from the course you are enrolled in.

Collecting evidence to establish your claim for Recognition of Prior Learning is the most important part in the whole process. Your RPL assessor will assist you through the process by providing objective advice and support.

What evidence do you need to provide?

You need to provide a range of evidence to support your application. This might include a resume, duty statements, references or testimonials, work samples, self assessment.  The evidence you provide will depend on the qualification you are being assessed against, and will be explained in full on the application.

How are you assessed?

Your RPL assessor will make a decision regarding your competence on the basis of your application and the supporting evidence you provide. If gaps are identified in the evidence you provide, you may be contacted during the assessment process and asked to provide further information, or to clarify details about the evidence you have supplied.  You may also be required to undertake an interview, observational assessment, consider alternative forms of evidence or complete the course work.
RPL assessment can happen at any time during the course.


Please call us on  1300 73 79 77 or  click here to email us with any further questions you may have regarding Recognition of Prior Learning.