Recognition of Prior Learning is an assessment-only process that evaluates an individual’s existing skills and knowledge acquired through formal, informal, or non-formal learning against the requirements of a unit or qualification.
This is a type of assessment recognises the skills and knowledge you have collected through work and life experiences. It requires you to provide evidence of your competency to determine if you meet the required standards of the unit/s of competency.
The process of applying for RPL (VET courses and units only):
- Complete the application below, and pay the $150 RPL interview fee.
- During the initial interview, your potential for recognition will be evaluated.
- At the end of the initial interview, you will be advised of the following:
- How many units you may receive direct credit for
- A confirmed evidence list for the remaining units
- Time frame for RPL process
- The cost of the RPL process ($150 per unit of competency minus your initial interview fee)
- Once your evidence is submitted and assessed, you will have a confirmation interview. If the recognition assessment is unsuccessful, PBC may:
- Request more evidence
- Suggest gap training options
In reaching a decision on Prior Learning, the following criteria are considered:
- Authenticity: The evidence is genuine and attributable to the applicant.
- Currency: Evidence reflects recent skills and knowledge (usually within the last 2 years).
- Sufficiency: Enough evidence is provided to confirm all aspects of competency.
- Relevance: Evidence aligns with the unit’s requirements.
- Disadvantage: In granting credit, applicants will not be disadvantaged in achieving the expected learning outcomes for the course of study or qualification.
- Integrity: The integrity of the course of study and qualification are maintained.
Students can appeal against the outcome of an RPL application.
RPL Fees:
An application fee of $150 is due at the time of submission. Additional fees are $150 per unit. If RPL assessment is complex due to the number of units, qualification level, or industry specific requirements, there may be additional fees.
After initial review of the RPL application, students will be advised of any further costs and given the opportunity to withdraw their application.
Student Support
Students are informed of their RPL options before enrolment and during course delivery. Support and guidance are available to assist students in preparing and submitting applications. The RPL process is communicated on the website, the Student Handbook, and during orientation.
Quality Assurance
PBC employs several quality improvement strategies for RPL including regular validation of RPL practices to ensure consistency and compliance, continuous improvement through student and assessor feedback, and oversight of any third parties involved in RPL assessments to ensure adherence to PBC standards and ASQA requirements.
Risk Mitigation
PBC employs several risk mitigation strategies for RPL including ensuring assessment is undertaken by trained assessors, communication about the process does not guarantee an outcome, verification of evidence, and using multiple sources of evidence. Additionally, trainers and assessors receive regular training on current RPL practices, risks, and compliance expectations.
