What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?

How to recognize the prior learning of an individual

The only acceptable process of recognizing prior learning is through RPL ASSESSMENT.

What is RPL Assessment?

RPL Assessment is a structured process for gathering evidence and making judgements about candidate’s performance in relation to registered national standards and qualifications. This process involves the candidate and assessor within a particular context in a transparent and collaborative manner.

The RPL assessment is mostly summative in nature with formative assessment done only to a learner where further action is taken after the advisory session. The assessment of candidates is done against the same unit standards and exit level outcomes of qualifications using the same assessment criteria as for other fulltime learners. What is demanded of a full-time learner has to be met fully by RPL learning during assessment.

Assessment of RPL learners can be on a one-on-one basis or even on group basis just like full times learners. If 58% is demanded as a pass mark for full time learners, the same should apply for RPL learners.


RPL Assessment must adhere to the four (4) basic principles of assessment, as follows:

  1. Fairness
  2. Validity
  3. Reliability
  4. Practicability

The Process

The process involves four phases: Application, Collecting the Evidence, Assessment and Review.

  • Phase 1: Application
    • Complete and submit an application for RPL form. The form requires each applicant to indicate which national competency unit and full qualification they wish to apply for.
  • Phase 2: Collecting of Evidence
    • Each unit of competency is assessment according to the required performance criteria in accordance with the National Training Regulations.
  • Phase 3: The Assessment
    • On receipt, the trainer will check your application for completeness and begin the process of assessment.
    • Your application and evidence will be assessed by the trainer.
  • Phase 4: The Review
    • Where there have been difficulties in deciding whether to grant RPL, the applicant will receive an “RPL Assessment Report” from the trainer conducting the assessment indicating where competencies still need to be completed and suggesting options for how to gain these competencies.

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