Credit transfer and recognition of prior learning (RPL) towards the award of the Higher School Certificate

ACE 8105

Last Updated: 1 April 2019

As a qualification within the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), the Higher School Certificate provides for credit transfer and the recognition of prior learning towards the award of the credential.

Students eligible for credit transfer and RPL need to be informed of the provisions and given appropriate support.

In the case of RPL, it is important that students understand the criteria and methods used to assess the extent of recognition that they might be granted. RPL must involve processes that are fair to all concerned, based on clear criteria, with support mechanisms and the opportunity for a review.

Students should also be made aware of any implications of their credit transfer or RPL application in terms of Higher School Certificate requirements, calculation of the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) and government benefits such as Youth Allowance.

In some cases, students may be entitled to both credit transfer and recognition of prior learning. It should be noted, however, that for any particular learning, credit can be granted only once.