Many skilled people learned their trade by doing it — in a workshop, on a building site, in a kitchen or on a farm. They are good at their job, but they have no certificate to show for it. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a way to change that.
What RPL means
RPL is an assessment process. Instead of sitting in a classroom, you show evidence of the work you already do. A qualified assessor compares that evidence with the units of competency in a nationally recognised qualification. If your evidence meets the requirements, a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) can issue the qualification.
The qualifications are part of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), so they are recognised across Australia.
Who RPL suits
RPL usually suits people who:
- have worked in their trade or role for a few years
- can show their work with references, photos, payslips or similar documents
- want a formal qualification for skills they already use every day
If you are new to an industry and still learning the basics, a training course may suit you better for now.
How the process works
- Free skills check. You answer a few questions about your work, and we suggest the qualification that best matches your experience.
- Build your evidence. Your consultant helps you gather your resume, references, photos of your work and other documents.
- Skills assessment. A qualified assessor reviews your evidence and may ask you some questions about your work.
- Get qualified. If you meet the requirements, the RTO issues your qualification.
Good to know
Every application is assessed on its own evidence, so a result is never guaranteed. A qualification on its own also does not guarantee a visa, a licence or a job — some trades need a separate state licence as well.
You can check the official details of any qualification, including its units, on training.gov.au.
Ready to find out where you stand?
Start with the free skills check. It takes about two minutes and there is no cost or obligation.
