Use our recognition of prior learning calculator to discover what you may be able to gain credit for.
Recognition of prior learning
Supporting your transition to Deakin
We value your experience and qualifications. That’s why every new course application at Deakin is assessed for recognition of prior learning. Start your studies at the #1 Victorian university for graduate employment and take the next step with confidence.
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Choosing the right degree matters. There's still time to secure your spot at the #1 Victorian university for course satisfaction. Applications close 21 June. Exclusions apply, check course pages for closing dates.
What is recognition of prior learning?
Recognition of prior learning (RPL) turns your study and life experience into course credit that can reduce your study duration, as well as the cost of your study. We consider all university, TAFE and private tertiary education provider qualifications from around the world, as well as informal learning that relates to your course.
How much credit can I get?
For most courses, Deakin policy requires that at least one third of the course needs to be completed at Deakin in the current course. Where this is not the case, the credit limit is detailed in the following table or in course, discipline or professional accreditation information. Please remember limitations do apply and are dependent on the requirements of external accrediting associations.
| Type of course | Maximum credit you can receive | Minimum credit you must undertake |
|---|---|---|
| Associate degree (16 credit points) | 10 credit points | 6 credit points |
| 3-year bachelor degree (24 credit points) | 16 credit points | 8 credit points |
| 4-year bachelor degree (32 credit points) | 21 credit points | 11 credit points |
| Graduate certificate (4 credit points) | 2 credit points | 2 credit points |
| Graduate diploma (8 credit points) | 4 credit points | 4 credit points |
| Masters degree (coursework) (12 credit points) | 8 credit points | 4 credit points |
| Masters degree (coursework) (16 credit points) | 10 credit points | 6 credit points |
This table is a guide only and credit limitations are subject to course rules.
Calculate your RPL credits
Calculate RPL credit
Restrictions on RPL credit
Before applying for RPL, it’s important to understand there may be conditions or limitations that may influence the credit that is awarded. These restrictions help ensure that credit is granted fairly, in line with academic requirements and professional standards. Please review the key conditions below.
- You'll still need to meet the entry requirements for the course you're applying for, even if eligible for RPL.
- Deakin provides credit for overseas qualifications when they're benchmarked against relevant Australian qualifications.
- Centrelink benefits may be affected if your study load becomes part-time. Speak to a student adviser about maintaining a full-time load.
- Check with your relevant professional association to see if receiving RPL may affect your recognition (and note that credit may not be available for courses that require accreditation).
- Postgraduate students are not eligible to receive credit for undergraduate units.
- RPL will not be granted for capstone, work-integrated learning or other units [PDF 216KB] as determined by the teaching faculty. Please read Deakin's recognition of prior learning policy for more information
- RPL cannot be granted for study completed at the Certificate IV or below level.
- Credit on the basis of RPL is not granted for prior learning acquired more than 10 years before the application for RPL credit. However, with the approval of Academic Board, Faculties may impose a shorter time limit for some courses to ensure currency of knowledge and skills appropriate to the discipline.
How to apply for recognition of prior learning
When requested, we assess RPL for new applications and you can also apply after you’ve started study at Deakin. If your previous study or experience meets the learning outcomes for units within the course, you may be eligible for RPL credit.
Deakin future students
When you apply for a course at Deakin, we’ll use your application information to assess your eligibility for RPL. If you're seeking credit for specific units, upload relevant documents with your course application to ensure your prior learning is considered.
Deakin current students
If you didn’t add the supporting documentation to your application, you can now. Complete the online RPL application form to apply. You'll be prompted to upload relevant supporting documents to provide evidence of your learning outcomes.
Deakin research students
Research students can request RPL for coursework components after accepting their Deakin offer, as RPL is not assessed during the application stage. To apply, complete the online RPL application form and upload relevant supporting documents
Application criteria and deadlines
The qualifications in your application must be completed within the last 10 years. Shorter time periods apply for some courses. Please check the course, discipline or professional accreditation information or contact your domestic or international prospective students team. Make sure to apply for RPL as soon as possible. RPL applications for units in the current teaching period should be submitted by the first day of Week 1.
Got a question but can't find the answer?
Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive about recognition of prior learning.
Use our calculator to see what credit you may be eligible for at Deakin. Please note, this is an indication only. If your institution or course is not appearing in the calculator, it's still possible to receive credit.
Supporting documents that provide evidence of your prior learning outcomes will give you the best chance of getting as much credit as possible. Deakin offers different types of credit, with each requiring different documents that benefit your application.
While you are not able to transfer directly between institutions, you can submit an application as a new Deakin student. Be sure to include all the study you have completed at your previous institutions, so we can assess your eligibility to receive RPL based on the study you have completed.
International applicants should speak with your authorised agent or contact our team for more information.
Contact us
Apply with confidence. We're committed to giving you the guidance you need throughout the application process.
Domestic students
1800 693 888
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International students
+61 3 9918 9188
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