Getting credit for what you already know
You should not have to repeat what you can already show. Here is the difference between credit transfer and RPL, and what to gather.
Two different things
Credit transfer is for study you have already completed. You give formal evidence, such as a certificate, a transcript, a statement of attainment or your USI transcript. If it is granted, you do not repeat that unit.
Recognition of prior learning (RPL) is an assessment of what you have learned through work, life or earlier study. A qualified assessor compares your evidence with the course requirements. You may receive full or partial credit, and if your evidence is not enough, the provider may offer extra training.
VET providers must offer both unless course rules or licensing requirements prevent it.
Official source, read on 7 November 2026: ASQA on credit transfer and RPL (official site)
What counts as evidence
Evidence usually includes work samples or a portfolio, training records or certificates, and employer declarations or references. The assessor may also ask questions, watch you work or set a challenge assessment. Evidence must be valid, authentic, current and sufficient, and the provider should tell you what it needs before you start gathering.
Talk to the provider early. You usually need to be enrolled to apply, and there is often a charge. Ask for the cost in writing.
Open the RPL evidence checklist
Official sources, read on 7 November 2026: ASQA on credit transfer and RPL (official site), AQF, recognition of prior learning (official site)
Do not settle for shortcuts
You have the right to be informed, to be supported, to ask questions and to challenge an outcome you think is unfair.
ASQA warns about poor practices such as inadequate assessment, misleading marketing of RPL and assessment outsourced to unregulated third parties. This protects you too: ASQA can cancel a qualification that was issued without proper training and assessment, even after you have received it.
Be careful with any offer of a qualification for little more than a resume and a payment.
Official source, read on 7 November 2026: ASQA on credit transfer and RPL (official site)