Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) can be granted if you can demonstrate competency in all the performance criteria in the elements of a particular unit of competency (from a training package) or all the learning outcomes in a particular module (from an accredited course).

If you think you may be eligible for RPL in a prospective course, please contact the College for an initial discussion as to your suitability at least 2 weeks before the course commences, or for late enrolments, you must advise the Training Coordinator on enrolment. Students then have 3 weeks to lodge a fully completed application with all supporting documentation. Supporting and current evidence must be submitted with your application. It is the student’s responsibility to provide the evidence to support their claim for RPL. As RPL must be considered and assessed through one-on-one interaction between the applicant and assessor, the course fee remains the same (unless otherwise determined by a funding contract).

Applications received after this time will not be considered. Please be aware, if any of the training for units of competency for which you are applying for RPL are delivered while your application is still being considered, it is strongly recommended that you attend the related classes as we cannot guarantee that your application for RPL will be successful. As a guide the process will take between 2 and 4 weeks once your application has been submitted.

Steps in the RPL Assessment Process

If you decide you would like to investigate the possibility of RPL further:

Step 1

Complete the RPL Self-Assessment checklist for each unit to determine if RPL is a suitable option for you. You have three days to complete the Self-Assessment checklist. Your self-assessment will be assessed to determine if you can proceed with the RPL process.

Step 2

If your Training Coordinator recommends RPL as a suitable option for you, you will be assigned to a suitably qualified assessor who satisfies the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) / AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors (as specified in the Assessment Conditions for this unit of competency).

A meeting will be arranged with your assessor to discuss the RPL submission process.

Step 3

On completion of the meeting with your assessor, you can start collecting evidence as outlined in the RPL Evidence Suggestions guide. Download and complete the RPL Submission Kit.

Step 4

Arrange for the Third-Party Report to be completed by your workplace supervisor or other third party to confirm that you have the skills, knowledge and experience required to be assessed as competent in this unit.

Step 5

Submit all documents for your application to be reviewed. You have one month from the meeting with your assessor to submit all documentation and evidence. For example, if you receive access to the RPL Kit on 1 February 2026, then your RPL portfolio will be required to be submitted by 1 March 2026.

Step 6

Your application will be assessed within 14 days of receipt by your assessor. Once your application has been assessed, if there are any gaps in evidence you may be requested to:
answer theory questions
demonstrate practical skills while being observed by your assessor
provide additional evidence.

You will have 14 days to provide this additional evidence.

Step 7

After all required evidence has been reviewed, you will receive a formal written outcome for the unit you are apply for RPL.

If your RPL application is successful:

• You will be granted Recognition of Prior Learning for this unit, and the result will be recorded as RPL-G (Recognition of prior learning – granted) in the NBMC student management system.
• You will be notified by email of your successful outcome, and this will contribute towards completion of your qualification (where applicable).

If your RPL application is unsuccessful:

• You will receive feedback explaining which requirements have not been met and the reasons for the decision.
• You will be required to undertake the full assessment pathway for this unit, which may include completion of learning and assessment tasks as outlined in the course assessment plan.

Information on how to access NBMC’s appeals process will be provided if you wish to request a review of the assessment decision.

Northern Beaches & Mosman College recognises Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) qualifications and Statements of Attainment issued by other Registered Training Organisations (RTO) where the Training Package guidelines allow it.

If you have a current qualification or Statement of Attainment from another RTO that includes units of competency for which you wish to seek credit (towards a course offered by NBMC) you can apply to the College for Credit Transfer where appropriate. You will be required to give permission to NBMC to verify the authenticity of the qualifications provided by contacting the issuing Registered Training Organisation or by checking your Unique Student Identifier records.

Please advise the Training Coordinator of any applicable Units of Competency as part of your enrolment process..

Credit Transfer may only be awarded for whole units of competency that meet the packaging rules of the Qualification in which you wish to enrol. Where a mapping guide identifies a partial credit, this will not be considered for credit transfer, and you will be advised to seek RPL.