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Get recognition for your skills, experience and past study

Find out if your existing skills, experience and qualifications can shorten your course

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You may be able to shorten the length of your training course if you have:

If you answered yes to one or more of these, you can apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or a credit transfer.

If you have done a qualification or gained trade skills overseas, you can apply to have these recognised.

Read more about each option below, and how to apply.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

What is RPL?

RPL is when your previous experience is formally recognised. It takes into account your:

RPL may reduce the number of units you’ll need to do to complete a course. It may also help you get into a higher level training course or a university course.

Contact your training provider to apply for RPL.

Ask what evidence you’ll need to provide. For example, this could include:

Credit transfer

What is credit transfer?

A credit transfer is when your previous study or training is counted towards another qualification. For example, you may have:

Your training provider will assess how relevant your previous study is to the new course.

Credit transfer may reduce the number of units you’ll need to do to complete a course. It may also help you get into a higher level training course or a university course.

Contact your training provider to apply for a credit transfer.

Ask what evidence you’ll need to provide about your previous study, for example, a statement of academic achievement.

There is no fee to apply.

International qualifications

If you have done a qualification outside Australia, you can apply to have it nationally recognised. Contact the Victorian Government Overseas Qualifications Unit(opens in a new window) for information on assessment. Note that you’ll need to be a permanent resident of Victoria.

International trade skills

If you have gained trade skills overseas, you can apply to have these recognised. Visit Australian Government Trades Recognition Australia(opens in a new window) for information on assessment and eligibility.

Career success story

Andrew Edwards case study

From mechanics to clean energy: how Andrew transferred his skills across careers

“My mechanical and electrical background was perfect for clean energy. As technicians, we’re constantly reskilling and learning to keep up, which means opportunities keep coming to try new things.”

More free help and resources

TAFE and Training Line

Get help and information about TAFE and training courses, qualifications and training providers in Victoria.

Skills and Jobs Centres

Get free qualified, independent advice and support on training, career planning and finding a job in your local area.

Training and careers in growing industries

Learn about high demand industries in Victoria. Find out where you could work, what kind of jobs you could do, and what training you’ll need.

Get financial assistance for training and other expenses

You may be eligible for Free TAFE or Skills First funding to help pay for your training.

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Updated 17 June 2025

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