Nobody comes to university without some life experience, and when you haven’t started uni straight from high school, Recognition of Prior Learning reflects that experience. Here, we will explain how the things you’ve already learnt can speed up your future qualifications, whether you’re an undergraduate, postgraduate or vocational education (TAFE) student.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process by which the skills, knowledge and experience you’ve accumulated prior to your current course are formally recognised. It’s a great way to graduate faster and save on the cost of your degree, without doubling up on course material that you already know.
RPL is different from similar concepts you may have encountered, such as Credit for Prior Study (where you transfer credits from university subjects you’ve already completed) and Masters Advanced Standing.
It also differs from pathways, which are designed to get students into their dream courses by helping them meet entry requirements.
Generally speaking, RPL means you can receive credit towards your upcoming course, based on non-accredited qualifications or knowledge you already possess.
You don’t have to have completed a university-level course, either. RPL can apply to:
International students can also apply for RPL. Because this can reduce the length of your studies, it may also reduce the duration of your student visa.
Each RMIT course is designed around a set of learning outcomes or elements you’ll be expected to achieve. When you apply, you’ll need to provide detailed statements explaining how your work or life experience aligns with the learning outcomes or elements for the courses you’re seeking recognition for.
Of course, you’ll need to provide evidence, and the specific nature of this evidence will depend on where your prior learning came from.
For example, it might include:
You’ll need to provide detailed information on the nature of your prior learning – this may include course content, learning outcomes, assessment details, prescribed textbooks and more.
Please note: Documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation.
There are different processes for applying for RPL, depending on the course you’re planning to take, and the specific nature of your prior learning. The first, main difference is when RPL becomes part of your broader application process – before, during or after. At some point, you’ll be asked for evidence of your prior learning, so it pays to have that information ready as soon as possible.
Let’s have a closer look to see how it works, step by step:
First you need to apply for your preferred course. If you meet the entry requirements and are successful, you will receive an offer.
Accept your offer. Once you accept your offer you will receive the enrolment details for your course, including your student number.
As soon as you receive your enrolment details, you will need to go to the Credit and RPL Application page in the Service Catalog – RMIT Connect where you can complete your application.
Complete the Credit and RPL Application form online. Remember to attach all of your relevant documentation and evidence (outlined above).
Your application will be reviewed. If we need more information from you, we will be in touch.
Your application is then sent to the academic assessor who will assess your application.
You'll receive notification of the outcome of your RPL application via the system.
You’ll need to review your outcome. If your application is successful, you’ll need to accept the credit. This is a very important step as otherwise your credit will not be processed.
Once accepted through the system, the credit transfer team will process your credit.
First you need to apply for your preferred course. If you meet the entry requirements and are successful, you will receive an offer.
Once you accept your offer, you'll receive the enrolment details for your course, including your student number.
As soon as you receive the enrolment details, you will be able to log into the to the RMIT Connect Service Catalogue and access the credit and RPL application page.
Complete the Credit and RPL Application form online. Remember to attach all of your relevant documentation and evidence (outlined above).
Your application will be reviewed. If we need more information from you, we will be in touch.
Your application is then sent to the academic assessor who will assess your application.
You'll receive a notification of the outcome of your credit and RPL application which can take up to 2 weeks.
In every case, we will assess your prior experience using the following criteria:
RMIT offers credit to eligible students which can reduce the duration and cost of your degree
Masters Advanced Standing (MAS) is a specific form of Credit for Prior Study, for masters by coursework students. It’s based on tertiary study and industry experience.
Credit for Prior Study (CPS) is for previous university-level studies at RMIT or other tertiary institutions, either in Australia or overseas.
Open doors to new industries, boost your career, or create exciting new opportunities.
Discover opportunities and support available for mature age students.
Reskilling is a big step that can open doors to new opportunities.
RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.
More information
