Frequently asked questions

What is recognition and who is it for?

Recognition is the process by which you can demonstrate whether or not you already possess the skills or competencies taught in a particular unit, module or course. By offering you this process, TAFE NSW like many employers is recognising that you may have gained many skills on the job or in your life experience, and not necessarily through formal training. If you already have the skills and knowledge that a course of study would teach you, then you would not have to repeat that part of the course. You could finish your course in a shorter period of time. You do not have to re-learn the skills you already have.

What are the benefits and opportunities?

Recognition can have many benefits and opportunities for the people who use it. These can include:

• Credit towards qualifications
• You will be recognised for what you already know, and complete training in a shorter period of time
• Access to new opportunities in education or in your career
• You don't have to undertake training where you already have the skills and knowledge to do the job
• You could increase your career and training opportunities, as your skills will be formally recognised
• Gaining nationally accredited qualifications
• Significant benefits to people who have had less access to formal learning
• People who have had no formal education since they left school, yet have never stopped learning
• Pathway to a university course
• Applying for 100% recognition if you already have the skills and knowledge that an entire course would teach you
• Recognise the value of your achievements in life
• Feel better about being assessed by giving you control of gathering evidence about your learning
• Qualifications gained through recognition have the same value as those gained through course work at TAFE NSW

When can I apply?

You can apply for recognition at any time, however you should apply during the enrolment process or as soon as possible afterwards. The sooner you apply, the sooner you’ll know the outcomes.

How do I apply?

You will need to find out about the course you want to study and approach your Head Teacher to discuss your recognition application. When you have done this, start the TAFE NSW recognition process, by completing ONE of THREE Enrolment Adjustment Forms.

How much recognition can I be granted?

Applicants may be granted recognition for up to 100% of a TAFE NSW qualification on the basis of relevant studies, work or life experience.

Is there a cost?

The recognition pathway can be a lengthy process. It can take time and effort to collect the evidence required to support your application. The decision needs to be made whether to undertake the process or enrol in the course.

Students enrolled in TAFE NSW can apply for recognition at NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE.

Non-enrolled applicants may apply for recognition. Where recognition is assessed prior to enrolment, a fee will apply. The level of the fee will be determined in accordance with the TAFE NSW Commercial Recognition Policy.

Enterprises or individuals requiring a customised service may access the Commercial Recognition Service.

Can I appeal the outcome of the Recognition decision?

You can lodge an appeal if you feel that the process used to assess your application for recognition was unfair. You must appeal in writing within 10 days of receiving notification of the result of your application. The initial appeal must be sent to the Head Teacher of your course.

Will recognition affect Graded Awards?

Many of the modules are graded and many TAFE NSW courses have graded qualifications. This means that when you complete the course, your testamur will show your level of achievement - PASS, CREDIT or DISTINCTION. The level you obtain in the course depends on your results in certain modules which have been specified as "contributing to the grade" for the course. You need results in the form of marks or grades from at least 50% of the modules that contribute to the grading of the qualification in order for the grade to be calculated. If you do not have the required marks or grades you will receive an ungraded qualification.

NOTE:- If you have been granted a large number of exemptions your grading for the qualification may be affected. If you wish to achieve a highly graded qualification (e.g. to enable you to articulate to University at a later date) you will need to consider this when applying for recognition. Further information can be obtained from your Head Teacher.

Will my overseas Skills and Qualifications be recognised?

If you have overseas qualifications in the same or related field of study for which you're applying, you may gain credit for some of the modules in your TAFE NSW course. For more information contact the Multicultural Contact Officer on (02) 6648 5030.

How long does the process take?

It is difficult to specify exactly how long the assessment will take. The time will depend on what has to be assessed and the method selected. The length of the assessment does not relate to the decision. It is related to the amount of information required to make a decision.

Will my qualifications from another registered training organisation be recognised by TAFE NSW?

TAFE NSW recognises qualifications that are part of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). Under these arrangements, AQF qualifications gained from other RTO's will be recognised by TAFE NSW. This form of recognition is called National Recognition.

What is a Portfolio?

A portfolio is a collection of assembled evidence that proves that you already have the skills and knowledge in the modules or course you are seeking RPL in.

What is evidence?

Evidence is the information you gather and provide to an assessor to show that you have the skills required to gain recognition. Evidence may include:

• Examples of work you have done or are doing
• A reference from your employer
• A journal
• Qualifications
• Certificates of attendance at short courses
• Examples of letters, reports or budgets written by you
• A statement from someone for whom you have performed a service.

All evidence that you provide will be checked by the assessor to ensure its validity and authenticity.

Do I have to attend class while I am waiting for a decision about my recognition?

Yes. It is important that you don’t miss any of the class in case you are not successful in your recognition application.

Who do I ask about Recognition?

Contact any North Coast Institute campus, Course Information Officers or Counsellors who can provide general information and support on the recognition process. Head Teachers and your class teachers provide specific advice, support and information on how to apply for recognition in the qualification in which you are enrolled