Frequently Asked Questions

RPL stands for Recognition of Prior Learning, which is an assessment process that utilizes your existing skills, knowledge, and experience to attain a formal qualification or units of competency instead of undergoing traditional study.

RPL makes formal qualifications more accessible, particularly for individuals already in the workforce, aiding in career development.

Who is eligible for RPL?

Eligibility for RPL depends on various factors such as the industry you work in, the type of qualification you seek, and any relevant prior learning, whether formal or informal, you’ve acquired.

How does RPL work?

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) acknowledges the skills and knowledge you’ve acquired through work, study, school, and life experiences. It assesses your existing skills to fulfill the requirements for a formal qualification.

RPL: FAQ

Situation: As part of our training and assessment strategy, my RTO clusters the assessment of units of competency. Do I need to offer Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for all units, including those clustered together?

Under the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015, your RTO must offer RPL to individual learners, unless prevented by training package requirements or licensing requirements. When units are clustered, your RTO should ensure all requirements of each unit are addressed. While RPL can be offered for clustered units, it’s essential to identify which components have been addressed and which tasks still need completion.

Situation: Can a superseded unit of competency be used for RPL toward a current unit of competency?

Yes, a superseded unit can be used as part of an RPL process for a current unit. However, ensuring currency is crucial. Your RTO should assess the evidence provided against the requirements of the current unit, considering additional evidence if necessary to demonstrate current competence.

Situation: Should RTOs provide RPL or training and assessment for highly qualified learners?

RTOs must consider individual learners’ characteristics, skills, and experiences when developing training and assessment strategies. While RPL must be offered to learners, it’s an assessment-only process focusing on competency acquired through various learning experiences.