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Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): Who Qualifies and What You Get

Turn your hands-on work experience into formal credits toward a professional qualification.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a way to turn your practical work experience into formal academic credits. It allows you to gain a qualification by proving what you already know how to do.

Who it's for

This is designed for experienced workers, such as welders, who have developed high-level skills on the job but do not hold the formal certificates to prove it.

What you get

You receive formal credit toward a professional qualification. Instead of sitting through classes for things you already master, your proven work history helps you meet the requirements for your certification.

What it costs you

You will need to pay assessment fees to have your skills officially reviewed and verified.

The catch to know

You cannot simply claim you have the skills; you must provide solid evidence. This usually means gathering documentation such as photos of your work or formal letters from your employers confirming your work history and abilities.

How to apply

  1. Gather evidence of your skills, such as photos or employer references.
  2. Contact the issuing body to discuss the assessment process.
  3. Submit your evidence for official review.
  4. Pay any required assessment fees.

Learn more at: https://www.tepukenga.ac.nz