Credit and Recognition of Prior Learning

Student sitting on veranda studying online with a laptop
If you have prior experience or have studied previously, you may be eligible for credit or recognition of prior learning (RPL), which can help reduce your study load and the time it takes to complete your degree!
Whether you're interested in a TAFE or higher education course, you may receive credit or RPL for the skills, knowledge and experience you have gained through formal, informal, or non-formal learning.

Application Timelines

As applications for credit and RPL are assessed on a case-by-case basis, it’s important you allow enough time for your application to be processed ahead of your studies. Ensure you submit your application at least four (4) weeks before the commencement of your studies.

If your application is successful, a revised course planner will be provided that includes the recommended unit enrolment for your course, taking into consideration the applied credit. Unit enrolment changes must be made in accordance with the key dates for the relevant study period. To view key dates, refer to the CQUniversity Academic Calendars. Students who submit an application less than four weeks before the commencement of their studies are not guaranteed to have their application assessed, or credit applied, before the start of term and/or census date. If you are unable to meet the deadline, contact us to discuss your unit enrolment.

Understanding Credit and RPL Terminology

It’s important you understand the difference between credit and RPL, so you know how to apply with the correct documents to ensure your application is processed promptly.

Credit or Advanced Standing

If you have previously completed equivalent competencies or learning outcomes (formal learning) in the same or similar field in which you are currently studying, you could apply for credit for the units you have completed.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

If you've applied for a higher education course, such as a diploma, associate degree, bachelor, honours, graduate certificate, graduate diploma or masters degree, you may be eligible to apply for RPL based on informal and non-formal methods, such as life experience, work experience or on-the-job training.

Credit Transfer

If you have previously studied a nationally accredited VET course or unit of competency, you may be able to gain credit towards a TAFE skill set, certificate or diploma course with CQUniversity. Credit will reduce the number of units you are required to complete. In some cases, this may shorten the time it takes to complete a course. Credit may not be granted where accreditation, licensing or regulatory requirements prevent it.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL involves an assessment process of an individual’s previously obtained skills and knowledge that has been achieved outside the formal education and training system. If applying for RPL, you'll need to be currently working in the industry you are requesting RPL for or have worked in the industry in the recent past.

Application Process

The application steps and requirements for credit and RPL vary depending on your chosen course, whether you are a domestic or international student, and the way you have submitted your application to study with CQU.

Domestic Higher Education Students

Apply for credit or RPL towards an undergraduate or postgraduate course as student with an Australian Citizenship, New Zealand Citizenship, Australian Permanent Residency or Australian Permanent Humanitarian Visa.

International Higher Education Students

Apply for credit or RPL towards an undergraduate or postgraduate course as a student studying on an Overseas Visa.

TAFE Students

Apply for credit or RPL towards a TAFE Certificate or Diploma.

Credit Calculator

Learn how your prior study might translate to credit for an undergraduate or postgraduate course. Visit our credit calculator to view credit options and formal pathways.

Credit Calculator