Doc Summary
If you have overseas study or years of work experience, you may be able to convert them into an Australian qualification through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). RPL is an assessment process used by Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) to map your existing skills and knowledge to nationally endorsed units and qualifications on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). Done well, RPL can save you time, reduce costs, and fast-track your career or licensing pathway in Australia.
Quick answer #
To get overseas qualifications recognised via RPL: choose an RTO with the qualification on their scope, complete a pre-assessment, submit an evidence portfolio (e.g., transcripts, CV, work samples, references), undertake any interviews or practical assessments, and complete gap training if needed. Once competent, the RTO issues an AQF qualification or Statement of Attainment.
What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)? #
RPL is a formal assessment that recognises skills gained through overseas study, informal learning, and employment. An RTO compares your evidence against units of competency listed on the national register (training.gov.au). If your evidence demonstrates competency, you can be granted full or partial credit toward an AQF qualification without repeating training. See the national regulator’s guidance: ASQA: Recognition of prior learning.
Who should use RPL? #
- Migrants and international professionals wanting an Australian qualification for employment.
- Trades and vocational workers seeking to formalise skills for licensing or site access.
- Supervisors and managers needing AQF credentials for compliance or promotion.
- People with extensive experience but limited local paperwork who want recognition.
Step-by-step: Get recognised through RPL #
- Confirm the right qualification – Search the national register at training.gov.au and align your role with an AQF qualification (e.g., Certificate III/IV, Diploma).
- Choose a reputable RTO – Only use an RTO with the target qualification on scope. Ask about their RPL process, timeframes, fees, and any gap training.
- Free pre-assessment – Many providers give a skills scan to check your suitability and identify potential evidence gaps.
- Build your evidence portfolio – Include overseas transcripts, certificates, detailed CV, job descriptions, reference letters, work samples, photos/videos of tasks, logbooks, PD records, and compliance certificates.
- Undergo competency assessment – Expect interviews, third-party reports, challenge tests, and practical observations. Your evidence is mapped to each unit of competency.
- Complete gap training (if required) – If evidence is insufficient for certain units, you receive targeted training/assessment to close gaps.
- Receive your outcome – On successful RPL you’ll receive an AQF qualification or a Statement of Attainment for completed units.
RPL vs migration skills assessment #
RPL and migration skills assessments are related but different:
- RPL (via an RTO) – Provides an AQF qualification for employment or licensing recognition in vocational education. Regulated by ASQA.
- Migration skills assessment – Required for certain skilled visas. Conducted by the relevant assessing authority for your occupation (not by an RTO). See Home Affairs: Skills assessment and assessing authorities.
Examples of assessing authorities:
- Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) – many trade occupations.
- VETASSESS – general professional occupations.
- Engineers Australia – engineers.
- Australian Computer Society (ACS) – ICT roles.
Tip: An AQF qualification obtained via RPL can strengthen your employability and, in some cases, support evidence for skills assessments, but always check the specific evidence rules of your assessing authority.
Licensing and registration #
Holding an AQF qualification does not automatically grant a licence or professional registration. Certain occupations (e.g., electricians, plumbers, nurses, teachers) require state/territory licensing and/or registration with the relevant board. Start with:
- National overview: Licences and qualifications.
- Health professions: AHPRA and the relevant National Board.
What evidence should I prepare? #
- Certified copies of overseas certificates, transcripts, and course outlines (with translations if applicable).
- Detailed CV with duties, technologies/tools, and employment dates.
- Employment letters, contracts, pay slips, and LinkedIn profile link.
- Supervisor references and third-party reports describing tasks and competency.
- Work samples, portfolios, project documents, photos/videos of practical tasks.
- Logs/diaries, toolbox talks, SWMS, safety inductions, and compliance tickets.
- Professional development certificates and vendor certifications.
Common qualifications achieved via RPL #
- Construction and trades: Certificate III/IV (e.g., Carpentry, Wall and Floor Tiling, Commercial Cookery).
- Community services and health support: Individual Support, Ageing, Disability.
- Business and leadership: Business, Project Management, Leadership and Management.
- Hospitality and tourism: Commercial Cookery, Hospitality Management.
- ICT and engineering support: Information Technology, Networking, Drafting (VET-level).
How long does RPL take and what does it cost? #
- Timeframe: Typically 2–8 weeks after you submit complete evidence, depending on qualification level and assessment complexity.
- Costs: Vary by qualification and RTO. Fees are generally lower than full study because you are not repeating training.
FAQs #
Can I apply from overseas? Yes. Many RTOs assess remotely via verified digital evidence and online interviews.
Do I need English test scores? RPL itself usually does not require IELTS/PTE. However, migration, licensing, or employment may require English evidence.
Will RPL accept my overseas transcripts? Yes, if they are relevant and supported by evidence of current competence. Additional workplace evidence is often required.
What if I do not meet all units? You can complete targeted gap training and reassessment for the remaining units.
How Skills Campus helps #
Skills Campus guides you end-to-end: we match your experience to the right AQF qualification, coordinate with reputable RTO partners, help you compile strong evidence, and manage assessment, gap training, and timelines. We also advise on the difference between RPL and migration skills assessments and refer you to the correct assessing authority where needed.
Start your RPL pathway today #
Turn your overseas skills into recognised Australian credentials. Speak with our team for a free, no-obligation RPL pre-assessment and evidence checklist.
Visit skillscampus.com.au or contact us at skillscampus.com.au/contact.
