Last Updated on July 16, 2025 by Ozlinks Education

RPL Qualifications

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process designed to assess an individual’s existing skills, knowledge, and experience, with the aim of potentially awarding them a formal qualification. This approach enables individuals to obtain qualifications by utilizing their current knowledge and abilities, rather than requiring them to repeat training they have previously completed through work or other life experiences. The term “RPL qualification” specifically refers to the qualification that is granted through the Recognition of Prior Learning pathway.

Is RPL qualification recognized in Australia?

The Registered Training organizations (RTOs) assess your skills for each unit in your chosen qualification. The RPL process against the criteria of a unit can lead towards partial or full recognition of a qualification. Only units that have been completed can be used towards a qualification. Even if your credits don’t give you a full qualification, you can still get a Statement of Attainment for the units you’ve finished.

If your credits do not lead to full qualification recognition, you can complete the remaining units through training at a registered training organization (RTO). Once you have successfully completed all the units required for that qualification, your full qualification will be issued by the registered training organization (RTO), and that qualification will be recognized in Australia.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a list of frequently asked questions from our customers. If you need any further information, please do not hesitate to contact Ozlinks Education via the contact form.

What is the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program?

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) allows higher education institutions to formally recognise the knowledge, skills, and experience you already have, even if they were gained outside traditional education.

Why should you consider RPL program?

The RPL program is generally a faster method of obtaining an Australian Certificate III or IV qualification compared to completing a formal training course, as it recognizes your prior work experience and overseas qualifications.

Does RPL assessment meet learning program standards?

Yes. The RPL evaluation process is just as thorough as any other evaluation. But the evidence you need to show may be different from what is usually asked in a class assessment.

When the criteria for each of the subjects are met, a degree may be partially or fully accredited. For example, only completed subjects can be counted towards the qualification.

Even if your credits aren't enough to qualify, you can still receive written certification of the courses you've completed.

This will depend on the complexity of your qualification, how many subjects you apply for and how long it takes you to gather proof of work experience, collate and submit proof. Usually, the RPL process is 6 to 8 weeks from the date of application to the RPL assessment institute and also depends on your industry and qualifications.