Doc Summary
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a formal process used by Australian Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) to assess your existing skills and knowledge against the requirements of nationally recognised qualifications. A common question is whether RPL involves interviews or practical tests. The short answer: yes—many RPL pathways include an interview (often called a competency conversation) and, where relevant, a practical skills demonstration to verify your competence.
Quick answer #
Most RPL assessments combine evidence review with an interview and, where the qualification involves hands-on tasks, a practical assessment or workplace observation. The exact format depends on the qualification, the relevant units of competency, and the RTO’s assessment strategy.
What RPL typically involves #
- Evidence portfolio review (CV, position descriptions, work samples, licences, training certificates)
- Competency conversation (structured interview mapping your experience to units of competency)
- Third-party reports (supervisor or employer verification)
- Practical skills demonstration or workplace observation (for hands-on roles)
- Challenge tasks or knowledge questions (to address any gaps)
Learn more about RPL from ASQA: https://www.asqa.gov.au/resources/glossary/recognition-prior-learning
When interviews are used (competency conversations) #
An RPL interview helps the assessor confirm your responsibilities, depth of experience, decision-making, and currency of skills. Expect targeted questions aligned to the units of competency listed on training.gov.au. Interviews may be conducted in person or via secure video call.
What to expect:
- Discussion of real scenarios you’ve handled and outcomes achieved
- Clarification of your evidence and how it maps to performance criteria
- Follow-up requests for additional work samples or referee details
When practical assessments are used #
For trades, technical, hospitality, community services, health, construction, and other hands-on fields, a practical skills demonstration or workplace observation is common. The assessor will verify that you can perform tasks to industry standards, safely and consistently.
Examples of practical checks include:
- Simulated or on-the-job tasks (e.g., setting up equipment, preparing a dish, conducting a risk assessment)
- Demonstrating compliance, safety procedures, and quality standards
- Problem-solving in real-time scenarios aligned with unit requirements
Evidence you may be asked to provide #
- Resume and detailed position descriptions
- Portfolio of work samples (reports, job cards, project plans, photos/videos where permitted)
- Current licences, tickets, and certifications
- References or third-party reports from supervisors/clients
- Records of professional development and short courses
Tip: Ensure your evidence is current, authentic, sufficient, and relevant to the units sought.
How to prepare for interviews and practical tests #
- Map your experience to units of competency listed on training.gov.au.
- Organise evidence by unit and performance criteria; label files clearly.
- Rehearse a concise summary of key projects, responsibilities, and results.
- Confirm any site, safety, or equipment requirements for practical tasks.
- Line up referees who can verify your role and achievements.
Quality and compliance: what assessors must follow #
RTOs assess RPL under the Standards for RTOs 2015, following principles of assessment (fairness, flexibility, validity, reliability) and rules of evidence (valid, sufficient, authentic, current). See ASQA guidance: https://www.asqa.gov.au/standards/chapter-4/clauses-1-8-1-12.
Frequently asked questions #
Can I get RPL without an interview? #
Sometimes, but not commonly. Most RTOs use a competency conversation to validate and contextualise your evidence. The interview helps confirm the breadth and depth of your experience.
Will I always need a practical test? #
Not for every qualification. Practical checks are typical for hands-on occupations. For knowledge-based roles, robust documentary evidence and a detailed interview may suffice.
How long does the RPL process take? #
Timeframes vary with qualification level, evidence completeness, and assessor availability. With organised evidence and prompt responses, many applicants complete RPL in weeks rather than months.
What if I have gaps? #
Assessors may recommend gap training or targeted tasks. Bridging options help you meet all unit requirements efficiently.
How Skills Campus supports your RPL journey #
At Skills Campus, we streamline your RPL pathway with:
- Free initial suitability checks and guidance on the right qualification
- Evidence-mapping templates aligned to units of competency
- Mock competency conversations and preparation for practical assessments
- Liaison with partner RTOs and clear timelines
- Advice on gap training where needed to reach full competency
- Flexible, remote-friendly options for interviews where available
Our goal is to help you convert real experience into nationally recognised outcomes—confidently, compliantly, and quickly.
Next steps #
Ready to see if your experience meets the requirements? Speak with our team for an RPL pre-check, evidence review, and a personalised plan that outlines whether interviews or practical tests will apply to your qualification pathway. Visit www.skillscampus.com.au or contact us directly: https://www.skillscampus.com.au/contact.
