For more information about credit transfer and RPL, download the Pathways, Credit Transfer and RPL factsheet.

Credit transfer

Credit transfer is when a university or training provider allows you to count previous education or training in a similar field or topic towards part of a degree or other qualification. This can reduce the number of subjects you have to do to gain your qualification. You will need statements of academic achievement to support your request for credit.

Additionally Universities Australia has developed national credit transfer guidelines for students moving from VET (Vocational Education and Training) to a related undergraduate university course. Participating universities have agreed that holders of a completed diploma in a related area of study will be granted up to 33% credit in a three-year degree, or up to 25% in a four-year degree. Holders of an advanced diploma can obtain up to 50% credit towards a three-year degree. In all cases the actual amount of credit granted is dependent upon the student's level of achievement in the VET studies and upon the specific composition of the units completed.

For further information see the Policies/Programs section of the Universities Australia website (www.universitiesaustralia.edu.au). For more specific course information and to discuss your individual circumstances, check with the institution offering your course of interest.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL)

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a way of getting any previous relevant experience – working, training, volunteering, including activities in the community – formally recognised towards a qualification. This can be a shortcut to getting a qualification because you will be formally recognised to have completed parts of the training requirements.

Institutional credit transfer and recognition of prior learning (RPL) policies

For information about credit transfer and recognition of prior learning (RPL) policies at various institutions, see the relevant institutional page or follow the links below to their website.