FAQs

Q. What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) is a way to use your existing skills and knowledge to get a formal qualification. Previously, the term was skills recognition.

It involves getting your current experience and knowledge assessed and taking into account other qualifications you may already have. It means you don’t have to waste time learning things you already know how to do.

Q. Can anyone apply for RPL?

Yes. Anyone with experience in given industries can apply for RPL.

Q. I have no qualifications from my industry but I have skills, knowledge and experience gained from working in that industry. What can I do to have these skills recognised??

The RPL process takes into account all relevant skills, knowledge and experience that you have regardless of the way you got them. This includes experience and training you have gained through paid work, volunteer work or just life in general.

Through the RPL process, you may be able to gain a complete qualification or, if you have gaps in your knowledge, parts of a qualification. If you need to, you can complete the rest of the qualification through training and a formal assessment.

Q. Why would I bother with RPL?

RPL is generally faster than completing a qualification from scratch and provides you with the opportunity to get:

• a promotion or more money;
• entry into a different career or job;
• entry to or credit in another course; and
• satisfaction from having your skills formally recognised.

The qualification you get is the same that you would get if you completed a full training qualification but with the added bonus that you won’t spend time in the classroom going over things you already know, making it faster.

Q. Does RPL have the same requirements as other assessments?

Yes. The RPL assessment process is as rigorous as any other assessment. However, the type of

evidence that you need to provide may be different from normal class assessments.

Importantly though, the RPL process is flexible. You and your training provider assessor will discuss and

determine the evidence you can provide.

Q. What will RPL cost?

The cost is different for different qualifications. Take free assessment first then we will get back to you with low cost and high return RPL solution for you.

Q. How long will it take?

It’s a 4 step simple process, much quicker than traditional learning. Contact us and we will advise you on how much time it is likely to take you to complete your RPL process.

Q. Is it easier just to enrol in the subjects?

Going through RPL can save you time and effort. It will also mean you avoid spending time in classroom

going over things you already know. If you do have gaps in your skills and need to attend classes, you will have to pay all the normal fees for those units.

Q. How difficult is it for me to apply for RPL?

After you discuss your skills, knowledge and work experience with staff at a Registered Training Organisation or at the Career Centre to work out if RPL is right for you, applying for RPL and going through the assessment process should be straightforward.

The staff will be able to:

• provide you with information on the RPL process;
• help you with any forms that need to be completed;
• explain the cost;
• discuss the evidence required; and
• support you through the process.

Q. What is involved in the assessment process?

Once we agree that you are a suitable candidate for RPL you will be required to gather evidence which proves your competence. When you provide evidence you may be required to:

• answer questions about your work experience in an interview;
• demonstrate your skills and knowledge by completing practical tasks or showing your assessor how you would complete a task; and
• provide supporting evidence such as a resumé, job description, reports from employers/supervisors.

This evidence must confirm that you have shown competence over a period of time and can work under different conditions.

Q. If I need help at any time during the process, what can I do?

Holo is here to help you. Contact us at any time, if you are not sure what to do or if you need help to gather evidence.

Q. Is study I completed many years ago OK as evidence for RPL?

Yes, but you will need to show how you have applied and maintained the skills and knowledge.

Q. What if I can’t find my old qualifications?

Contact the organisation where you completed your studies as they may be able to provide you with a copy of your qualification. If you cannot get a copy of your qualification, you can still go through a RPL process, however, you will need to show your competence in some other way.

Q. Can I just show you my skills rather than have to dig out old qualifications?

Yes, you can demonstrate your skills and knowledge without having to present your qualifications.

Q. It’s hard for me to get supporting evidence as I don’t want my employer to

know I am applying for RPL. Can I still apply?

Don’t be worry. Let us hear you.

Q. What if I enrol in a class and then realise that I already know the work – can I use the RPL process rather than continue that class?

Yes. If this happens to you, talk to the class trainer immediately. You will get the right advice.

Q. What can I do if I am not happy with the result of my RPL application?

If you are not happy with the outcome of your RPL application, the training provider you went to will have a process to follow.

When you first apply for RPL, the training provider should provide you with information about this process. If you did not receive this information, contact your training provider or your assessor.

Q. I want to migrate to Australia. What can I do to have my skills and knowledge recognised?

Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) assesses a range of trade and professional occupations for overseas skilled people who intend to migrate to Australia. TRA is also able to conduct assessments for Australian residents and citizens who have gained skills overseas in metal and electrical trades through the Australian Recognised Trade Certificate (ARTC) program. Contact us we will guide you further with that.