A step-by-step guide to applying for recognition of prior learning

Before you begin

To apply for recognition of prior learning (RPL), some tertiary training providers require you to be enrolled or provisionally enrolled in the qualification, and pay the enrolment fees. Others do not require this. Check with your tertiary provider first.

1. Take a careful look at the course programme

• Are there any modules or papers which you think you are already competent in? These are the course components for which you could apply for RPL.

New Zealand tertiary training providers database - check out your course

2. Find out from your training provider how to apply for RPL

• Most course providers have a policy of RPL in place, but not all course providers have clear information about the process of RPL on their websites.
• If it is not clear from the provider’s website, you may need to talk to their course adviser or faculty administrator about how to apply. Teaching staff may be helpful to talk to as well. You will usually find contact details on the tertiary provider’s website.
• Some polytechs, such as Manukau Institute of Technology and Otago Polytechnic, have a centre on campus with staff who specialise in helping with RPL. Make an appointment to see them or talk to them over the phone.

3. Make your application and pay the application fee

• You will need to fill in the RPL application form. Some course providers have application forms you can download from their website.
• Some course providers may ask for an application fee. The application fee usually covers administration, assessment and consultation fees.
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• You usually need to apply for RPL before the course starts, or within a few weeks of the start date. Check these dates with the course provider. You won’t be able to make an application after this date.

4. Have your evidence assessed

• The course provider will get in touch with you to discuss the type of assessment you need to do, and arrange a date and time of assessment.
• The assessment will depend on the type of course. For example, you may need to provide evidence, or go in for an interview.
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• The assessment is made by a subject matter expert in your chosen field of study.

Types of assessment used in recognition of prior learning

Tony Kuepfer found his work as a glass blower gave him many transferable skills

"At the glass studio, I was putting through 20 to 25 school groups a year, which is about one every other week.

"When I had the professional conversation with the assessor, I found out how much involved I've always been with the tourism industry, but I didn't know it! I didn't know how much I already knew until I had to go through this process."

Tony Kuepfer, Tour Guide and Trainer

5. Get written notice of the outcome of your application

After the assessment, the course provider will send you written notice of the outcome of your application. A verbal indication by the assessor is not enough. The outcome could be:

• Credit awarded in full. Any course credits you have gained will be recorded on your learning record and you won’t have to sit this component of the course.
• Requirement to give further evidence or be assessed further; for example, a challenge assessment.
• Offer of accelerated assessment – you enrol in the paper, perhaps do some refresher learning, then complete the assessment before the course ends.
• Application declined – it’s recommended that you enrol and complete the paper as normal.

Find out more about accelerated assessment

6. If unsuccessful, you may appeal the decision

• If you are unhappy with the course provider’s decision and would like to appeal, you need to use the appeal process set out by the course provider.  Find out more by contacting your faculty or department office.