Recognition of prior learning and credit transfer
Have you gained knowledge and skills through your work, life experience, training or education?
You may be halfway to a qualification and not realise it.
Even if you have never formally studied or trained in a particular area, you may be able to have your skills formally recognised.
Recognition of your current skills and knowledge can occur through:
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credit transfer
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recognition of prior learning (RPL).
Credit transfer
If you have completed past studies in areas related to the qualification you would plan to enrol in you may be eligible for credit transfer.
You will need to provide documentation of your past study so an assessor can make a decision about whether a credit transfer can be granted.
Recognition of prior learning (RPL)
If you believe you are already competent in a number of skills through your work or life experience, then these skills may be eligible for RPL and they can often be credited towards a partial or even a complete vocational qualification.
What is involved?
As part of the RPL assessment your existing skills and knowledge will be assessed against a range of industry standards by a qualified assessor. You can demonstrate your competence in a variety of ways including performing tasks, sharing your stories about how you carry out tasks in the work place or providing work samples.
Depending on your skills, knowledge and experience, you may find you are eligible for a qualification and you may never need to enter a classroom!
Benefits of applying for recognition:
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Recognition can accelerate you through your qualification.
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A qualification may assist you with getting a promotion, job security, a change in career or even a pay rise.
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Recognition helps keep your studies interesting and challenging (as you are not learning things you already know).
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Recognition can reduce the cost of your qualification.
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RPL incentives may be available.
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Recognition will never cost you more than the training it replaces and can cost you a lot less. It will certainly take up less of your time.
Want to know more about how to get your skills recognised?
Contact a local registered training organisation.
For assistance contact Training Queensland on 1300 654 687.
