Recognised Prior Learning (RPL)

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Gain recognition for industry experience or previous study

As a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), Australian College applies the 'National Standard of Recognition'. This means if you obtained a Nationally Recognised Competency through study with another RTO or Tertiary Institution recently or in the past, you can apply to have the competency recognised by Australian College.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process that allows the competencies you already possess to be recognised, regardless of how you obtained them. These might include skills you picked up on the job or from other life experiences that do not necessarily include formal training.

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Category 1. Credit transfer

You apply for credit transfer for units and qualifications that you have previously completed. The units and/or qualifications must have the same code and name or if there are differences in code or name, the content must be equivalent to the course for which you are applying for credit.

For Credit Transfer, you need to submit copies of your transcripts from your previous studies. These transcripts will need to provide the details of where you undertook this study so that your results can be verified.If these transcripts are not current, you may be asked to provide further evidence of how you have kept your skills and knowledge up-to-date.

Category 2. Non-Formal RPL

You apply for credit for units or modules of a course, based on non-formal learning. The course was completed through a structured program of learning that did not lead to an officially accredited qualification.

For non-formal RPL, you need to submit copies of your transcripts from your previous studies. These transcripts will need to provide the details of where you undertook this study so that your results can be verified.If these transcripts are not current, you may be asked to provide further evidence of how you have kept your skills and knowledge up-to-date.

Category 3. Informal RPL

You apply for credit for units or modules of a course, based on informal learning that was gained through work, social, family, hobby or leisure activities and experiences.

For informal RPL, you will need to submit samples of work, references, testimonials and other evidence that proves you can do what you can say you can do. Also, this evidence must show that your skills and knowledge are still current and you are able to do these things now.With informal RPL applications you will be asked to prepare and submit a portfolio of your evidence.

Recognition of Current Competence (RCC)
In all 3 cases of RPL above, you need to show you are 'currently competent', by providing evidence on how you have applied these skills and knowledge.

Examples of RPL and RCC Evidence include:

work skills or knowledge
paid or unpaid work experience
life experience
community work experience

Benefits of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and RCC include:

It provides you with a full or part qualification, without the need for you to complete any further training
It is used to identify what training you may need to complete a qualification
It provides a pathway to higher qualifications for people who may not have access to further training
It forms part of articulation to some University Degrees
It formalises your qualifications therefore enhancing your opportunities for recognition, career advancement or employment

Application Steps for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Step 1

Contact our RPL Assessor at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for a copy of our RPL guide.

Step 2

Review the RPL Guide, complete the application, submit all the required documentation and pay the RPL fee of $100.

Consider what evidence you already have that demonstrates your skills and knowledge. You must be able to show your skills are current and meet industry standards.

Examples of evidence could include:

work samples
practical demonstrations in the workplace
assessment interviews
references and support from your supervisors or others in the community
a variety of materials including training certificates, photos of work examples, a resume, performance reviews

Step 3

The RPL Assessor and our Compliance Officer review your application.

Step 4

Allow up to 14 days for the decision to me made by the RPL Assessor. You will be notified by the college in writing of the outcome of your application.

If your RPL Application is successful, you will be issued an award for the qualification or unit/s of competency. This award is a Nationally Recognised Qualification.

Each unit that has been successful in the RPL Application will receive a $35 discount off the course full price.

Please note that promotional course price or discount offer is NOT available for RPL course enrolments. The RPL fee of $100 will be deducted off the course price.

Step 5

If you have had your documents assessed and your RPL Application is NOT successful, we do not refund the $100 as an assessor has assessed the RPL.

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