How do I appeal a rejected RPL assessment decision?

Quick answer #

To appeal a rejected Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) decision in Australia:

• Read the assessment report and your provider’s appeals policy.
• Request written feedback detailing the gap(s) against the unit(s) of competency.
• Gather additional or higher-quality evidence mapped to the competency elements.
• Lodge an internal appeal within the stated timeframe (often within 20 working days).
• Ask for reassessment by a different assessor and keep a clear evidence map.
• If unresolved, use the provider’s external review option; international students at private providers can contact the Commonwealth Ombudsman (Overseas Students Ombudsman).
• You can also report non-compliance in processes to ASQA; while ASQA won’t overturn academic judgement, they oversee provider compliance.

Understand your RPL outcome and your rights #

Australian Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) must maintain transparent complaints and appeals processes. Review the outcome letter and identify which unit(s) of competency were deemed “Not Yet Competent” and why. Then read the RTO’s complaints and appeals policy to confirm timeframes, acceptable evidence types, and the formal steps.

For compliance background, see the Standards for Registered Training Organisations and ASQA’s guidance on complaints. International students at private CRICOS providers may also seek help via the Commonwealth Ombudsman (Overseas Students Ombudsman).

Collect stronger evidence #

RPL focuses on assessing current competence against nationally endorsed units. If your evidence was insufficient, fill the gaps with:

• Work samples: reports, designs, project plans, code repositories, or artefacts demonstrating the required tasks.
• Third-party reports: supervisor or client attestations referencing elements of competency and performance criteria.
• Training records: prior statements of attainment, CPD logs, vendor certifications, licences.
• Performance records: KPIs, appraisals, job descriptions mapped to unit elements.
• Media and logs: photos/videos of you performing tasks, tool logs, version histories.
• Challenge tasks: if offered, complete gap assessments set by the RTO.

Create a simple “evidence map” linking each piece of evidence to specific elements, performance criteria, and knowledge/skills evidence requirements found in the unit on training.gov.au.

Make an internal appeal #

Most RTO policies require you to attempt an internal appeal before any external escalation. Typical steps include:

1. Written request: Submit a formal appeal referencing your student ID, units affected, and grounds for appeal (e.g., new evidence, procedural error, misinterpretation of evidence).
2. Attach evidence: Include your evidence bundle and evidence map.
3. Ask for procedural clarity: Request confirmation of reassessment timelines and whether a different assessor will review.
4. Meet the timeframe: Lodge within the window stated in the policy (often 20 working days from notification of outcome).

Request reassessment or a second assessor #

Where policy allows, request that a different qualified assessor review your submission to ensure impartiality. You may be offered a reassessment or a gap assessment; clarify potential fees before proceeding. Keep communications in writing and retain dated copies.

Escalate externally if needed #

If your internal appeal is not resolved or you believe the RTO did not follow its policy:

• External review per RTO policy: Many RTOs have an arrangement with an independent reviewer or mediator. Follow the documented process.
• International students at private providers: Contact the Commonwealth Ombudsman (Overseas Students Ombudsman).
• Report provider non-compliance: You can notify ASQA about non-compliant processes (note: ASQA does not overturn individual academic decisions but can act on systemic issues).

For public universities or TAFE, external oversight may sit with state or territory ombudsmen. Check your provider’s policy for the correct pathway.

Timelines, fees, and outcomes #

• Timelines: Providers must manage complaints and appeals promptly; internal lodging windows and response SLAs are set in the provider’s policy. Act early.
• Fees: Some RTOs charge for reassessment or external reviews; request a fee schedule before proceeding.
• Outcomes: Possible outcomes include upholding the original decision, granting competency, or asking for additional evidence or challenge tasks.

Important distinction: RPL vs migration skills assessment #

RPL in the VET sector (delivered by RTOs) differs from occupation-based migration skills assessments conducted by authorities like VETASSESS or ACS. Appeal routes and criteria are different. If your goal is migration, ensure you are following the correct authority’s process and timeframes.

How Skills Campus can support your appeal #

As Australian RPL and education consultants, we can:

• Audit your initial evidence against unit requirements and identify specific gaps.
• Help you build a professional evidence map aligned to elements and performance criteria.
• Prepare a structured appeal submission and liaise with your provider as permitted.
• Guide you on escalation pathways where appropriate.

Start the conversation via the Skills Campus website or contact us for tailored guidance.

Get personalised advice #

Your situation is unique. For confidential, practical support with RPL appeals, evidence gathering, and reassessment preparation, reach out to Skills Campus. We’ll help you present a strong, policy-aligned case.

This article provides general information only and is not legal advice. Always follow your provider’s official policy.

Work with Australia’s trusted education and RPL advisors at Skills Campus. For personalised help with your RPL appeal, contact us today: https://skillscampus.com.au/contact.