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Recognition of prior learning

RPL qualifications: turn your experience into a nationally recognised qualification

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An RPL it team member sorting an electrician's job photos and reference letter into his evidence folder at a ute tailgate on a building site

How Recognition of Prior Learning works

  1. Free Skills Review

    Tell us about your work so far. We’ll show you which qualifications it could count towards.

  2. Build your evidence

    The RTO tells you exactly what evidence it needs, like references and photos of your work, and we help you put it together.

  3. RTO assessment

    We submit your evidence to our partner RTO. Their qualified assessor reviews it against the qualification.

  4. Get your qualification

    If you’re assessed as competent, the RTO issues your nationally recognised qualification. Most candidates with a complete evidence portfolio receive their outcome within 4–6 weeks of submission to the RTO. This is not a guarantee.

Qualification levels available through RPL

Every nationally recognised qualification sits at a level on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), from Certificate I to Graduate Diploma.

AQF 8

Graduate Diploma

Postgraduate-level VET qualification. Can provide credit towards a master's degree, including an MBA, subject to the receiving institution.

AQF 6

Advanced Diploma

Senior technical or management skills. Can provide credit towards a relevant bachelor's degree, indicatively up to 1.5 years, subject to the receiving institution.

AQF 5

Diploma

Paraprofessional qualification. It can provide credit towards a bachelor's degree, typically up to one year of advanced standing, subject to the receiving institution.

AQF 4

Certificate IV

Supervisory and specialist skills. Often required for team leader, coordinator, and advanced practitioner roles.

AQF 3

Certificate III

Trade-level qualification. Required for most apprenticeship trades and many licensed occupations across Australia.

AQF 1 and 2

Certificate I and II

Entry-level skills for routine work under supervision. Foundation qualifications for career starters.

RPL it Australia reviews

What our clients say

Selected Google reviews. Individual experiences vary. Every applicant is assessed against the same requirements, and some require gap training or additional evidence.

Frequently asked questions

Recognition of Prior Learning, your experience, and your next step.

Got more questions?
How long does the RPL process take?

Most candidates who submit a complete evidence portfolio receive their qualification within 4 to 6 weeks from RTO assessment. The total timeline depends on evidence readiness. Strong documentation can help the process move quickly, while evidence gaps or gap training may take longer.

Is an RPL qualification the same as one from TAFE?

Yes. An RPL qualification is issued under the Australian Qualifications Framework, the same framework that governs qualifications from TAFE colleges and all other Registered Training Organisations. It carries the same national recognition. Licensing requirements vary, so check with the relevant authority.

How much does RPL cost?

RPL costs vary by qualification level, complexity, and number of units. Because RPL assesses what you already know rather than teaching new content, it is typically less expensive than full enrolment. Contact our team for a tailored quote. Payment plans are interest-free with no establishment fee, and the instalment schedule and any extension fee that could apply are set out in your quote.

What evidence do I need for RPL?

Evidence can include your resume, reference letters from employers, photos or videos of your work, previous qualifications and certificates, job descriptions, and any other documentation that demonstrates your skills and knowledge. The RTO tells you exactly what evidence it needs for your specific qualification, and your RPL it consultant helps you put it together.