RPL & Assessment
Your experience deserves a clear next step.
You may already have valuable knowledge and skills from your work, previous training or everyday responsibilities. Recognition of Prior Learning can help you explore how that learning relates to the requirements of a formal programme.
Speak to us about your experience, the qualification you are interested in and the assessment pathway that may be available to you.
RPLEvidence
What is Recognition of Prior Learning?
Recognition of Prior Learning, or RPL, is a process of identifying and assessing what you already know and can do against the requirements of a particular learning pathway.
Learning can happen at work, through formal courses, through informal training or through other relevant experience. RPL gives you an opportunity to demonstrate that learning rather than relying only on the certificates you already hold.
The route available depends on the programme and the evidence you can provide. Your eligibility and the outcome of the process are considered individually. Experience alone does not automatically result in credits, admission or certification.
Who should consider an RPL enquiry?
An RPL conversation may be useful if you have relevant practical experience and want to understand how it relates to a programme’s requirements.
You may be an experienced employee seeking a formal learning pathway, someone returning to learning after time in the workplace, or an employer exploring options for experienced team members.
You do not need to prepare a full portfolio before making an initial enquiry. Start by telling us, in broad terms, about your role, your experience and the programme that interests you.
Process
How the Process Works
- 01
Initial screening
We start with a conversation about your background and the learning pathway you have in mind. This helps establish whether an RPL route is available and what further information may be needed.
- 02
Guidance and planning
If the enquiry can proceed, we explain the proposed process, the requirements to be considered and the responsibilities involved. You will receive information about the next steps, time commitments and applicable fees before deciding whether to continue.
- 03
Evidence preparation
You receive guidance on the type of evidence relevant to your application and how it should be organised. Depending on the requirements, evidence might include records of completed work, training records or confirmation of responsibilities.
Only submit evidence through the secure channel provided to you. Obtain permission where necessary and remove client, colleague or employer information that is not required. - 04
Assessment
An appropriate assessment process considers your evidence and performance against the relevant requirements. You may be asked for further information or to complete activities that help demonstrate your knowledge and skills.
- 05
Feedback
You receive feedback on the outcome and any areas that need further evidence or development. An initial gap does not have to end the conversation; the next step may involve additional learning, practice or assessment.
- 06
Your next step
The outcome may identify an available entry route, further preparation or another appropriate pathway. Any progression remains subject to the rules of the programme and the applicable assessment and certification requirements.
A note about your evidence
Your first enquiry should contain only a brief description of your experience and what you would like to achieve. Please do not send identity documents, passwords, confidential workplace records or a portfolio of evidence through this public form.
If supporting documents are needed later, we will explain what is required and how to provide it appropriately.
Assessment & Moderation
Understanding what you need to demonstrate
Assessment considers your work against defined requirements. Clear instructions, relevant evidence and useful feedback help you understand what you need to demonstrate and where more work may be needed.
Speak to us about assessment planning, evidence requirements and the arrangements relevant to your programme or project.
Supporting consistent decisions
Moderation is a quality-assurance process that reviews assessment practice and decisions. It supports consistency and helps identify issues that need attention.
The assessment and moderation roles, practitioner requirements and available services are confirmed for the specific programme. These arrangements do not replace any required external assessment.
Information for employers and providers
If you need assessment or moderation support, tell us the programme, the learner group and the stage of delivery. We will discuss the scope, records and responsibilities before any work is agreed.
EISA Preparation
Understand the final assessment pathway.
An External Integrated Summative Assessment, or EISA, forms part of the completion requirements for applicable occupational qualifications. It assesses occupational competence through the prescribed external assessment arrangements.
Preparation support can help you understand the requirements, organise your revision and identify areas that need more practice. Ask us whether preparation support is available for your programme.
Preparation is separate from conducting the EISA. The actual assessment must take place through the authorised arrangements for the qualification, including the relevant accredited assessment centre where required. We will confirm the applicable arrangements before you proceed.
Taking part in preparation does not guarantee EISA admission, a competent result or certification.
RPL & Assessment FAQs
Can I receive a qualification just because I have worked for many years?
Length of service can provide useful context, but it does not by itself establish that you meet a programme’s requirements. Your learning and evidence must be considered through the applicable process.
Can I enquire if I do not have all my previous training certificates?
Yes. Explain your circumstances during the initial enquiry. The team will advise what information is relevant and whether other evidence may be considered.
How long does RPL take?
The timeframe depends on the programme, the evidence available, your preparation and the assessment arrangements. Ask for an indicative plan after the initial screening.
How much does the process cost?
Fees depend on the scope of the work. Ask for written information about the proposed process, included services and any additional assessment or preparation costs before proceeding.
What if my evidence does not meet all the requirements?
Feedback will explain the areas that need attention. Further evidence, gap learning or another pathway may be discussed, depending on the requirements and the outcome.
Can my employer support my application?
An employer may be able to assist with appropriate records or confirmation of your responsibilities. Any evidence must be relevant and shared with the necessary permission.
Does RPL remove the need for EISA?
Do not assume that it does. Where EISA forms part of the applicable pathway, its requirements still need to be considered. Ask for confirmation of the route relevant to your programme.
What if I disagree with an assessment outcome?
Ask your programme team for the applicable review or appeals procedure, including the steps and deadlines. Raise your concern through that procedure so it can be considered appropriately.
Let’s discuss your experience and your goals.
Tell us which programme interests you and give us a short overview of your background. We will help you understand what to explore next.
Request an RPL ConsultationAlready a learner?
Ask for help with your programme, eCampus access or learning activities.
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