Types of RPL and the supporting documents required

Specified credit for formal learning

If your previous studies are directly comparable to a specific Deakin unit’s content and unit learning outcomes, you may be eligible for credit for that unit.

Supporting documents

The following documents are required to support your application for specified credit:

official transcripts (for either complete or incomplete qualifications)
unit outlines including assessment requirements and unit weighting
unit mapping linking completed units to the Deakin unit(s)
key to results including grades and their meaning
resume and evidence of employment (where required for masters or other postgraduate courses).
written statement relating your previous learning to the learning outcomes in the Deakin unit. Additional program information such as weekly topics, assessments and readings are beneficial.

Unspecified credit for formal learning

When no comparable Deakin unit exists (and where course rules allow), your formal learning can be recognised as unspecified credit. In this case, your RPL credit will count towards an elective unit.

Supporting documents

The following documents are required to support your application for unspecified credit:

official transcripts (for either complete or incomplete qualifications)
unit outlines including assessment requirements and unit weighting
key to results including grades and their meaning
resume and evidence of employment.

Credit for non-formal learning

Credit for non-formal learning is available for structured programs of learning that don’t lead to an officially recognised qualification.

Supporting documents

The following documents are required to support your application for non-formal learning credit:

written statement relating your previous learning to the learning outcomes in a Deakin unit (additional program information such as weekly topics, assessments and readings are beneficial)
portfolio of evidence that supports the claims made in your written statement – where applicable, please include:
- a resume outlining dates, role titles and scope of your roles
- certificates of completion and attainment that provide evidence of your training and professional/personal development activities
- references from your employer (or clients if you’re self-employed) that explain how your experience relates to unit learning outcomes and/or confirms that the information in your written statement is accurate (references need to include contact details if further information is required)
- position description outlining work obligations, staff supervision and any budgetary responsibilities.

Credit for informal learning

Credit is also available for learning achieved through work, leisure activities and experiences that relate to your course or units.

Supporting documents

The following documents are required to support your application for informal learning credit:

written statement relating your previous learning to the learning outcomes in a Deakin unit
portfolio of evidence that supports the claims made in your written statement – where applicable, please include:
- a resume outlining dates, role titles and scope of your roles
- work you’ve produced, such as reports, folio pieces and presentations
- references from your employer (or clients if you’re self-employed) that explain how your experience relates to unit learning outcomes and/or confirms that the information in your written statement is accurate (references need to include contact details if further information is required)
- position description outlining work obligations, staff supervision and any budgetary responsibilities.