Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) & Recognition of Current Competencies (RCC)

Right to Recognition of Existing Skills and Qualifications

The underlying principle of the Registered Training Organisation Standards regarding recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfer (CT) is that students should not have to undertake training in a unit of competency where they are already able to demonstrate competency as outlined in the training package. MTS is, therefore, required to recognise qualifications and Statements of Attainment which have been issued by another RTO and to consider prior learning and relevant skills gained through work or life experiences.

Application for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

MTS is committed to providing a pathway for students to gain formal recognition for skills and knowledge acquired through various experiences. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) acknowledges the value of learning that has occurred outside formal education settings, allowing students with prior skills and knowledge to progress more efficiently through their training program.

This commitment reflects MTS dedication to equitable access and the recognition of diverse learning pathways, ensuring students can build on existing competencies to achieve their goals.

Supporting Student Access to RPL MTS offers all VET students the opportunity to seek recognition for prior learning as part of their training journey.

You may apply for an RPL kit during enrolment and/or throughout your studies.

To have your skills formally recognised, an assessor must review your supporting evidence against the requirements of each unit of competency, qualification and training package rules.

The MTS process for an application for Recognition is as follows:

• Request an RPL kit from MTS that includes information about the RPL process
• Complete and return the application with supporting evidence
• All evidence is verified for authenticity, currency and validity.
• A qualified assessor will assess your application within 21 working days – a request for further evidence or actions may be made
• You are promptly advised of outcome.
• All applicants can appeal an unsuccessful outcome by using the RTO Appeal process.

The assessment process is a rigorous process. It is not about how much evidence a student can provide; it is about the relationship between the experiences of the student to all the requirements of the unit of competency or qualification.

If it has been determined that due to the nature of this training product, it would not be an efficient use of students’ time and/or RTO resources to undertake assessment of prior competencies. This view has been formed by the following justification:

1. Insufficient Evidence: The application lacks sufficient evidence to support the claimed skills and qualifications. Applicants must provide comprehensive documentation, such as reference letters, work samples, project reports, and certificates.
2. Irrelevant or Outdated Experience: The experience submitted is deemed irrelevant or outdated by the RTO. It is crucial to align work experience with the nominated occupation or skills category for which the assessment is sought.
3. Plagiarism: The application contains plagiarism or is not 100% unique and original. The RTO employs plagiarism detection tools and will reject any report found to contain such content.
4. Failure to Follow Protocols: Not following the RTO regulations, rules, and guidelines can lead to RPL rejection. Applicants must be well-informed of the RPL process and adhere to the necessary protocols.

It is essential for applicants to thoroughly understand the RTO RPL standards and ensure that their application meets all the criteria to avoid rejection.

Application for Credit Transfer (CT)

If a student has successfully completed units of competency with another RTO, they may apply to have these recognised in their current course through Credit Transfer (CT).

For qualifications or Statements of Attainment issued after 1 January 2015, students must provide access to their USI portal to enable verification through the USI Registry. This can be completed by following the instructions here Students and their VET transcripts – Unique Student Identifier.

If a qualification has been issued in the current calendar year it may be verified via a students USI portal or provide permission for MTS to contact the issuing RTO directly to confirm the authenticity of results. This can be done by contacting the issuing RTO and confirming you are giving MTS permission to access your results and copying in info@mytradestart.com.au

This process is not an assessment, but a verification of previously completed training. MTS will verify the authenticity of all documentation prior to approval, including checking the issuing RTO on training.gov.au to confirm its registration status and that the units or qualification were within its scope at the time of issuance.
Where required, MTS may also contact the issuing RTO to validate documentation. MTS has up to 10 working days to review the application, complete all verification checks, and provide an official outcome to the student via email.