Doc Summary
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment pathway that maps your existing skills, knowledge, and experience—gained overseas or in Australia—against the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). If you are an internationally qualified professional or tradesperson, RPL can help you gain an Australian qualification faster and often more cost-effectively than studying from scratch.
Quick answer: the RPL application process in 7 steps #
- Confirm the right pathway: RPL through a registered training organisation (RTO) for VET/AQF outcomes, or a migration skills assessment if applying for a visa.
- Choose a reputable, AQF-aligned RTO with the qualification you need.
- Complete a pre-assessment and eligibility check.
- Gather evidence: CV, references, overseas qualifications, work samples, position descriptions, licences.
- Submit your RPL application and evidence portfolio.
- Undertake competency conversations, workplace observation, and any challenge tasks.
- Receive your outcome: full qualification, statement of attainment, or gap training plan.
Understanding RPL and when to use it #
RPL is designed for candidates who can demonstrate competency through substantial workplace experience and prior study. It is widely used in the vocational education and training (VET) sector to issue AQF qualifications or units of competency. If your goal is to meet licensing, employment, or industry standards in Australia, RPL is often appropriate. If you are seeking points for skilled migration, you may also need a formal skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your occupation; RPL can complement, but not always replace, that requirement.
Learn more about RPL from the Australian Skills Quality Authority: https://www.asqa.gov.au/resources/fact-sheets/recognition-prior-learning.
Check your occupation and assessment requirements #
Before you apply, confirm what evidence is required for your occupation and goal:
- For VET/AQF qualifications: Search the qualification and units on the national register: https://training.gov.au/.
- For migration: Review skills assessment authorities and visa requirements at the Department of Home Affairs: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skills-assessment-and-assessing-authorities.
- For trades: Check Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) programs: https://www.dewr.gov.au/trades-recognition-australia.
Choosing the right RTO and qualification #
Select a Registered Training Organisation approved to deliver and assess the qualification you need. Verify the RTO and course details on training.gov.au, ensuring the qualification aligns to the AQF. Consider:
- Industry recognition and graduate outcomes
- Transparent RPL policy, timelines, and fees
- Support for evidence collection and gap training
- Turnaround times and assessment methods (interviews, observation, challenge tasks)
What evidence you need for RPL #
Your evidence must be valid, sufficient, current, and authentic. Typical items include:
- CV/resume and position descriptions
- Certificates, transcripts, and overseas licences (translated if required)
- Reference letters from employers and supervisors
- Work samples: reports, portfolios, photos/videos of work, projects, rosters, SWMS/JSA
- Professional development records and logbooks
- Third-party reports or supervisor attestations
Tip: Organise evidence by unit of competency to streamline the assessor’s mapping process.
The RPL assessment process #
While each RTO has policies, a typical process includes:
- Pre-assessment: An eligibility interview and evidence checklist to confirm RPL suitability.
- Application and portfolio: Submit documentation and complete candidate self-assessment.
- Competency conversations: Structured interview to verify knowledge and experience.
- Workplace observation or video: Practical skills verified on-site or via recorded demonstration.
- Challenge tasks: Short tests, projects, or case studies if evidence gaps exist.
- Outcome: Full qualification, partial recognition (statement of attainment), or a gap training plan.
ASQA provides guidance on evidence quality and RPL compliance: https://www.asqa.gov.au/standards/chapter-4/clauses-1.12-1.16.
Costs, timelines, and common pitfalls #
- Costs: Fees vary by qualification and RTO; expect separate charges for RPL assessment and any required gap training.
- Timeframes: Simple applications may finalise in 2–6 weeks; complex portfolios can take longer, especially if workplace observation is required.
- Pitfalls: Insufficient or outdated evidence, lack of third-party verification, and choosing a qualification that does not match your actual job tasks.
RPL vs. skills assessment for migration #
RPL issues an Australian qualification (AQF) through an RTO. A skills assessment, required for many skilled visas, is conducted by an assessing authority specific to your occupation (for example, TRA, Engineers Australia, ACS). Sometimes, holding an AQF qualification via RPL supports a positive skills assessment, but the requirements are distinct. Always verify with the relevant assessing authority or a registered migration agent.
How Skills Campus can help #
As a trusted Australian education and RPL advisory, Skills Campus guides you from the first eligibility check through to final outcome. We help you:
- Identify the right AQF qualification and RTO
- Prepare a strong, mapped evidence portfolio
- Coordinate assessor interviews, observations, and gap training
- Navigate links between RPL, licensing, and migration skills assessments
Speak with our specialists to start your RPL application: https://skillscampus.com.au/contact. Learn more about Skills Campus at https://skillscampus.com.au/.
FAQs #
Do I need to study again if I have years of experience?
Not necessarily. If your evidence demonstrates competence across the units, you may achieve full recognition. Any gaps can be addressed through targeted training.
Are overseas documents accepted?
Yes, if they are relevant, current, and verifiable. Official translations may be required.
Will RPL help with licensing?
RPL can help you obtain the relevant AQF qualification; however, licensing bodies may impose additional requirements. Check the regulator for your trade or profession in your state or territory.
Start your RPL journey today #
Get personalised guidance and a clear action plan from Skills Campus. Book your consultation now: https://skillscampus.com.au/contact.
