One of the most common questions people ask when exploring the RPL assessment process is how long the process takes. You might have spent a lot of time developing relevant skills on the job and want a formal qualification aligned with industry standards to demonstrate that through informal training. What you wouldn’t want is to spend time and money on training for skills you already have.
Recognition of prior learning (RPL) is a nationally recognised pathway awarding qualifications based on your existing knowledge, experience, and skills. So, regarding the timeline, most people complete the full RPL application process within 14 days of enrolment.
Let’s take a look at what you need to know about each stage on the path to formal qualifications.
The Four Stages of the RPL Assessment Process
There are four different stages of the RPL process. Understanding what really happens at each step provides a clear picture of where your time goes and how to manage it efficiently.
Stage 1: Free Formal Qualification Appraisal
A free appraisal call is where you need to begin. Our advisor will spend about twenty minutes with you reviewing your work history, job descriptions, trade skills, previous training, and more. This helps us confirm which experience is formally recognised as prior learning. There’s no cost or obligation to get started. Simply get in touch with us, and you can begin the process on the very same day.
This will help you gain formal qualifications and a good understanding of what evidence is accepted. This clarity over skills recognised saves a lot of time in the future.
Stage 2: Enrolment & Evidence Submission for Prior Learning
Once you enrol and make your payment, you’ll receive direct online access to the evidence portal, where you can upload your supporting documents. Here, you’ll upload documents supporting evidence deemed competent against the relevant units for volunteer work. This stage normally takes one or two days for most candidates once they have a clear idea of the project plans and fee structure.
Common types of evidence accepted include:
- Description of existing skills, position, and employment history that crafts a practical pathway.
- Relevant documentation, work samples, experience formally recognised, project documentation, or reports you’ve generated on your job.
- Reference letters for performance appraisals from managers or supervisors who would vouch for your experience. This highlights your current skills and supports as additional documentation.
- Performance reviews, competency standards, certificate III, or formal appraisals from your employer.
- Any existing certificates, additional resources, or credentials that you can be tagged for to complete your qualification.
You don’t need every single one of these. The right combination depends on your industry and the specific qualification you’re pursuing. Our advisors will tell you exactly what’s most useful for your situation before you start gathering anything.
Stage 3: Assessor Review to Complete Qualification
After your evidence profile is submitted, our qualified assessor takes over the process for overseas qualifications. They’ll review documentation and map it against the competency standards for specific units, with evidence submitted for all criteria. This stage generally takes around three to seven business days, though you may be asked to provide additional documentation if anything needs clarification or verification.
The assessment process is coordinated by an assessor, who may request additional supporting documents for career advancement. So, how promptly you respond to the remaining units has a huge impact on how quickly the self-assessment process moves forward.
It’s important to remain responsive at this stage for a better RPL outcome and keep everything on track.
Stage 4: Qualification Issued for National Recognition
After the evidence and skills assessment, it’s confirmed that the required standard for higher education is met, with formal recognition issued and credit transfer where relevant. Initially, you’ll receive a digital copy, and a physical certificate will be sent to you by a registered training organisation.
The entire journey for prior learning recognition, from the day you enrol to the day you receive your credential, takes almost 14 days. The qualification for informal learning is issued under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). It carries the same recognition of learning outcomes that are earned through study or further training.
What Can Slow the Process Down for Career Advancement?
The 14-day timeline is achievable for many applicants, but a few factors can affect how quickly you complete the process. It’s worth understanding these before you get started. There are a couple of factors that can delay the process, and it’s important to stay informed about them before you start.
Delays in gathering evidence
Gathering evidence can sometimes take longer than expected. You may need to track down old employment records, contact previous managers for reference letters, or locate project documents from earlier roles. Starting this process before you enrol can help you avoid delays and keep your application moving smoothly.
Incomplete submissions of the previous study
If your evidence fails to meet the unit’s requirements, the assessor might ask for additional resources. These revisions are normal, but how quickly you respond will determine the overall timeline for completing your formal education.
Experience gaps in higher education
Your existing experience may cover most of the qualification requirements. If there are any gaps, our assessors at Churchill flag this during the appraisal stage or when you submit your application form. This will help you get a clear idea of what’s involved.
Public holidays and leave periods
Each career prospect will have assessment review times involved, counted during business days. So any submission before a public holiday can delay your application.
How RPL Compares to Traditional Study
Completing a Diploma through traditional study usually takes around six to twelve months. It generally takes around six to twelve months. For the advanced Diploma level, the timeframe can be extended, provided there are no disruptions to consistent study.
RPL will reduce the whole timeline. A Diploma of Leadership and Management that normally takes about a year to earn through study can be completed in two weeks. This entirely relies on your current experience that is formally recognised. The same is for the Diploma of Work Health and Safety and the Diploma of Project Management.
If you’ve already built the skills through work experience, RPL helps you gain a nationally recognised qualification without spending months in traditional study.