Recognition of prior learning

If you're thinking about studying or training, think first about what skills you already have. You may be able to reduce the time it takes to get your qualification—you may not need to study at all.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) is about the skills and knowledge you've gained through work and life experiences.

For example, working in an office could help you get a certificate in business administration. Working on a farm could count towards a qualification in agriculture or mechanics. Working as a volunteer with teenagers may get you a certificate in youth work. RPL applies for both paid and unpaid work.

How are my skills assessed?

Your skills will be assessed against industry standards. This is done by an RPL assessor. You may be asked to:

• perform tasks or jobs
• talk about and explain how you do those jobs
• provide samples of your work.

A visit to your workplace may be organised so you can demonstrate your abilities. You may have to provide job descriptions, references or performance appraisals.

The assessor will consider your skills and knowledge and match them against a suitable qualification.

Who should I contact?

Check with your TAFE, college or registered training organisation before you enrol to see if they can do an RPL assessment.

Search for registered training organisations.

You can also contact Training Queensland on 1300 654 687 to discuss your RPL options.

Costs and financial help

There is a cost for RPL assessment. The training organisation you choose will tell you about the costs involved and what financial help may be available.

Previous study—credit transfers

A credit transfer recognises the study you've already done at school, college, TAFE or university. You may be able to have credit from a relevant earlier course transferred to your current studies. You should check with your college, TAFE or training organisation before enrolling. You cannot get credit transfer for your whole course. You must have certified copies of your certificates, awards or qualifications. There is no fee for a credit transfer.

Trade skills

If you have skills in a trade area but don't have the certificate to prove it, you may qualify for trade recognition. This includes trade training completed overseas.

If you are:

• an Australian resident with trade skills in an electrical or metal trade, you may qualify for the Australian Recognised Trade Certificate
• an Australian resident with trade skills in other areas, contact a registered training organisation for an RPL assessment
• a migrant or were an international student, visit Trade Recognition Australia.

Overseas qualifications

You can have your qualifications assessed according to Australian educational standards if you:

• are a Queensland resident with permission to work and study

  and

• have completed a formal technical or tertiary qualification overseas.

There is no fee for this assessment and having your qualifications recognised could help you get a job or promotion.

Apply for assessment (PDF, 450KB)

Licence to work

You may have to be registered or licensed to work in Queensland.

Check overseas qualification information to find out if licensing or registration applies to your trade or profession.