Doc Summary
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) helps experienced IT professionals convert real-world skills into nationally recognised qualifications or meet skills assessment requirements for Australian migration. In Australia, RPL for IT is mainly delivered by two groups: the Australian Computer Society (ACS) for ICT migration skills assessments, and accredited Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) for Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualifications (such as Certificate IV or Diploma of IT). Below is a clear breakdown of who does what and how to choose the right provider.
Quick answer: who assesses RPL for IT in Australia? #
- Australian Computer Society (ACS) — conducts ICT migration skills assessments, including an RPL-style pathway for applicants without closely related formal qualifications. See: https://www.acs.org.au/msa.html
- Accredited RTOs (VET) — assess RPL for nationally recognised ICT qualifications (e.g., ICT40120 Certificate IV in Information Technology, ICT50220 Diploma of Information Technology). Verify any RTO and its scope on https://training.gov.au/.
- TAFE institutes (public RTOs) — many offer ICT RPL, e.g., TAFE Queensland RPL and TAFE NSW RPL.
- Private RTOs — providers such as Upskilled (RTO 40374) assess ICT RPL for eligible qualifications.
ACS vs. RTOs: what’s the difference? #
ACS (Australian Computer Society)
- Purpose: Migration skills assessments for ICT occupations (ANZSCO major group 2xx ICT roles).
- Pathways: Formal ICT qualifications, work experience, and an RPL pathway for those without closely related degrees.
- Outcome: An ACS assessment result letter for migration purposes, not a VET qualification.
- Official info: ACS Migration Skills Assessment and the Australian Government list of assessing authorities: Home Affairs – Skills Assessing Authorities.
RTOs (Registered Training Organisations)
- Purpose: Assess RPL for nationally recognised qualifications under the ICT Training Package.
- Examples of qualifications: ICT30120, ICT40120, ICT50220, ICT60220, and specialisations (e.g., networking, cybersecurity, programming).
- Outcome: An Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) certificate or statement of attainment.
- Verification: Check any RTO’s scope and the ICT Training Package on training.gov.au – ICT Training Package.
Examples of reputable providers offering RPL relevant to IT #
- TAFE Queensland — ICT RPL options for eligible programs. See: https://tafeqld.edu.au/course-options/rpl
- TAFE NSW — RPL pathways across many study areas, including ICT. See: https://www.tafensw.edu.au/recognition-of-prior-learning
- Upskilled (RTO 40374) — RPL information and guidance for eligible ICT qualifications. See: https://www.upskilled.edu.au/about/recognition-of-prior-learning
Important: Some well-known brands act as facilitators and partner with one or more RTOs; others are the RTOs themselves. Always verify who will issue the qualification and that the RTO is approved to deliver the exact ICT qualification you’re seeking.
How to verify an RPL provider before you apply #
- Confirm RTO status: Search the provider on training.gov.au. Ensure they are listed as an RTO and the qualification code (e.g., ICT50220) appears on their scope.
- Check the ICT Training Package: Review units and packaging rules at training.gov.au – ICT to make sure your experience aligns.
- Review evidence requirements: Ask for a detailed evidence guide (CV, position descriptions, code samples/portfolio, project briefs, references, vendor certifications, and employment verification).
- Ask about processing time and cost: Get timeframes, fees, and refund policies in writing.
- Clarify outcomes: For migration, ensure you follow ACS rules. For VET, confirm you will receive an AQF qualification or specific units via RPL.
When to choose ACS vs. an RTO #
- ACS (Migration): Choose ACS if your goal is a migration skills assessment for an ICT occupation. ACS may require an RPL application comprising knowledge areas and project reports if your academic background is not highly relevant.
- RTO (VET qualification): Choose an RTO if you want a nationally recognised qualification (e.g., Certificate IV or Diploma of IT) to support employability, career progression, or future study pathways.
Tips to strengthen your IT RPL application #
- Map your experience to specific units in the ICT Training Package.
- Compile robust evidence: code repositories, architecture diagrams, change tickets, sprint boards, test plans, admin dashboards, configurations, and references.
- Include vendor certifications (e.g., CompTIA, AWS, Microsoft, Cisco) and explain how they align to competency units.
- Prepare supervisor or client attestations on company letterhead that verify your role, dates, tools, and outcomes.
How Skills Campus can help #
Skills Campus guides IT professionals through the entire RPL or ACS skills assessment journey. We help you choose a reputable provider, align your evidence to ICT units or ACS guidelines, and avoid common pitfalls that cause delays or refusals.
Important disclaimer #
Information is general in nature and may change. Always confirm current requirements with ACS, your chosen RTO, and official government sources.
Start your RPL or skills assessment #
Ready to convert your experience into recognised outcomes? Contact Skills Campus for tailored guidance and next steps.
