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RPL Guide
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Scenario 1
Scenario 2
Scenario 3
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Outcome 1
Outcome 2
Outcome 3
I am supporting a learner with RPL
Your Results
Scenario 3
I have a training or learning certificate from a programme that is on the SCQF Framework.Outcome 3
I want to gain recognition of my learning to either gain entry to a learning programme that’s on the SCQF, such as a college or university course, or to gain exemption from particular parts of the programme.Summary
This RPL approach involves using learners’ SCQF credit-rated qualification to gain entry, advanced entry, or exemptions in another SCQF credit-rated program. Since both programmes are on the SCQF, organisations will have clear guidelines on a learner’s ability to succeed. This process is sometimes called credit transfer.
For traditional pathways, like moving from school to college or from an HNC/HND to a degree, learners provide evidence of certificates. Transitioning from undergraduate to postgraduate study should also be straightforward.
For RPL involving exemptions or advanced entry, learners must reflect on and compare their previous learning. Provide certificates, transcripts, program descriptors, and learning outcomes to help the new institution see how past study matches the new programme.
SCQF credit-rated qualifications from work or community settings are valued the same as those from traditional educational settings. However, learners may need to show relevant experience or specific knowledge to meet entry requirements.
Learners should be prepared for a supported assessment process to gather evidence, which may include written, oral, or practical components.
Common requirements
Entrance requirements and articulation agreements are detailed on each college or university’s website.
If a college has an articulation agreement with a university, the college will usually inform students about this opportunity for advanced entry. If learners are moving to another credit-rated programme, whether in work or the community, check with the provider to see if the existing SCQF qualification offers any exemptions or advanced entry.
Note that RPL claims are specific to each institution, as each one has its own RPL policy and the claim is not transferable. View institutions’ RPL policies.
Accessing RPL
RPL staff will be trained to support learners, make them feel comfortable, and provide manageable timelines. The goal is to avoid learning repetition and to shorten the time needed to complete the new programme.
Since RPL policies differ between institutions, learners should research their course options and consider multiple providers to see their RPL offerings. The amount of credit awarded for exemptions will depend on the comparison between old and new programmes, policy guidelines, and submitted evidence.
Learners will be informed about possible outcomes from the start and can trust that the process is focused on their needs, reliable, transparent, consistent, and quality-assured. Some organisations may also provide examples of past RPL claims.
Useful Links
Your Results
Scenario 3
I have a training or learning certificate from a programme that is on the SCQF Framework.Outcome 2
I want to gain recognition of my learning to gain entry or advanced entry into a learning programme which is not on the SCQF. It could also be used as evidence of professional competence/standards for practice.Summary
This RPL approach involves having SCQF credit-rated qualifications recognised to qualify for entry or advanced entry into another program.
For professional registration, the person you are supporting may need to meet specific requirements set by the professional body to be eligible for RPL.
Sometimes, the awarding body of the person’s previous studies has a formal agreement with the professional body, outlining any exemptions. This is often highlighted in the programme’s promotional materials.
In fields like accountancy, professional accreditation is required to practice, and using RPL for exemptions can accelerate a career, benefitting both the individual and their employer. Having a certificate or transcript with SCQF levels and credit points will help demonstrate the level and scope of a qualification.
Common requirements
The SCQF level helps providers assess abilities, but professional judgment is needed if the subject area differs.
Learners should research courses and contact training providers to see if RPL can be used for entry, or advanced entry, based on their qualifications, knowledge and skills.
Since different providers have different RPL policies, it’s useful to contact several to compare their offerings. Providers usually have facilitators and specialists who can support and guide learners through the process.
Some professional bodies have strict requirements, so prior learning may need to match exactly or meet specific qualifications. Most professional bodies provide detailed information on acceptable qualifications and experience.
Accessing RPL
Decision-making involves comparing the learner’s existing SCQF credit-rated programmes with new learning programme. This process is usually supported by someone familiar with the programme or professional body requirements. It’s helpful to provide certificates along with programme or module descriptors and learning outcomes for comparison.
Useful Links
Your Results
Scenario 3
I have a training or learning certificate from a programme that is on the SCQF Framework.Outcome 1
I want to achieve recognition for the skills and knowledge I have gained through life experience to improve my confidence, develop or improve a CV, identify career paths or plan my next steps in learning.Summary
This RPL approach focuses on identifying transferable skills learners gained through their SCQF credit-rated qualifications to enhance their CV, pursue further learning, or boost self-esteem.
To help recognise these skills, ask learners about their SCQF level, learning format (taught, distance, or blended), assessment methods, time taken, group work, and presentations. This helps gauge which skills can be recognised.
Explain these are the skills needed to take the next step towards their goals, such as communication, time management, teamwork, initiative and creativity.
For career development or CV improvement, facilitators can suggest learners research job descriptions in their desired field and think about how they can demonstrate the required skills. Learners should include SCQF levels of their qualifications on their CVs or job applications to help employers understand their achievements.
Common requirements
Certificated learning is often seen as the end of a learning journey, but this depends on the learner’s future plans, when they earned the certificate, and how they’ve kept their skills current. Employers and institutions may value activities that show skills are up to date.
RPL might begin in school, college, or university, with support staff helping students build confidence and CVs. This support may continue after leaving the institution.
Various organisations, such as community learning teams, Skills Development Scotland – particularly their My World of Work website, and private training providers, offer support for improving confidence and building CVs. These organisations use SCQF levels to assess existing skills and competencies.
For those in employment, many employers include RPL in performance reviews to support career development.
Accessing RPL
Staff facilitating prior learning are often from guidance backgrounds and may be trained careers advisers. They can help learners identify their abilities, strengths, and weaknesses, especially if the learner lacks confidence. The SCQF level of qualifications helps staff identify existing knowledge and skills, and uncover additional techniques developed to reach those levels.
Community learning teams or youth workers can also assist in boosting self-esteem, building confidence, and developing a CV, either in groups or one-on-one.
Learners can use our ‘RPL Reflection’ document (In ‘Useful links’ below) to reflect on what they’ve learned.
Useful Links
Your Results
Scenario 2
I have a training or learning certificate, but the programme is not credit rated on the SCQF Framework.Outcome 3
I want to gain recognition of my learning to either gain entry to a learning programme that’s on the SCQF, such as a college or university course, or to gain exemption from particular parts of the programme.Summary
This type of RPL involves comparing the content and outcomes of previous learning to the SCQF levels of the new learning’s entrance requirements.
If the person you are supporting is seeking exemption from parts of a programme, their previous learning must match not only the correct SCQF level, but also have enough breadth and depth to cover the credits they’re claiming. This can help them avoid repetition of learning and shorten the time needed to complete the new qualification.
This process is designed to ensure both the learner and the learning provider are confident that they can succeed in the programme or meet the requirements for exemptions.
The process may include a supported assessment to gather evidence, which could be written, oral, or practical.
Common requirements
Learners should research the course and contact providers directly to see if they can use RPL for entry or advanced entry, based on their qualifications and skills.
Different providers may have different RPL policies, so it’s a good idea to reach out to several for options. Providers usually have facilitators and specialists who can offer support and guidance through the process.
Accessing RPL
Staff involved in the RPL process are trained to support learners, help them feel comfortable, and provide manageable timelines. The goal is to prevent repeating learning and shorten the time needed to complete the new programme.
Learners will be informed of the possible outcomes from the start. Some organisations may also provide examples of successful RPL claims.
Useful Links
Your Results
Scenario 2
I have a training or learning certificate, but the programme is not credit rated on the SCQF Framework.Outcome 2
I want to gain recognition of my learning to gain entry or advanced entry into a learning programme which is not on the SCQF. It could also be used as evidence of professional competence/standards for practice.Summary
This type of RPL involves reflecting on previous certificated learning and showing it meets the entry requirements or qualifies for advanced entry into a programme that isn’t on the SCQF.
For professional registration, learners may need to meet specific requirements set by the relevant professional body to qualify for RPL.
Learners must provide evidence of their skills and learning to show they can complete the programme or qualify for exemptions. Advise them that a supported assessment process, which could be written, oral, or practice-based, will likely be used.
Common requirements
Learners should research the course and contact course providers directly to see if they can use RPL for entry or advanced entry based on their qualifications, knowledge and skills.
Since different providers have different RPL policies, it’s a good idea to contact several to explore options. You can find links to many learning providers’ RPL policies here. Providers usually have facilitators and subject specialists who can offer support, guidance and resources to help the learner through the process.
Some professional bodies have strict requirements, so prior learning may need to match exactly. Most professional bodies provide detailed information on acceptable qualifications and experience.
Accessing RPL
An RPL facilitator within the learning provider will know the learning programmes’ content and the skills needed to complete them or enter at an advanced level.
If the previous learning has clear outcomes, the person you are supporting can use these as a starting point to show that their knowledge and skills match the entry requirements.
For advanced entry, they may need to compare their past learning with the new programme’s content and discuss how long it took them to complete it, compared to the new programme’s timeline.
Learners applying for RPL should be supported throughout the process, with clear expectations set from the beginning.
Useful Links
Your Results
Scenario 2
I have a training or learning certificate, but the programme is not credit rated on the SCQF Framework.Outcome 1
I want to achieve recognition for the skills and knowledge I have gained through life experience to improve my confidence, develop or improve a CV, identify career paths or plan my next steps in learning.Summary
This RPL approach helps learners recognise what they’ve gained from previous study and identify transferable skills. It can boost self-esteem, highlight strengths and weaknesses, assist in planning further learning, improve a CV, or guide future career choices.
Encourage learners to reflect on the previous course’s goals, qualifications earned, study methods, duration, and the type of assessment as this will help them explain what they have learned
It can also be helpful to ask learners to think about something they did and consider how they might do it differently next time, as this can help them recognise what they’ve learned.
Common requirements
Certificated learning is often seen as the end of a learning journey, but it depends on what the learner plans to do next, how recent the certificate is, and how they’ve maintained their skills. Employers and institutions may value activities that show skills are up to date.
Several organisations can help people boost confidence or build CVs, including Skills Development Scotland (SDS) – particularly their My World of Work website, local authorities, and private training providers. SDS or Jobcentre Plus are good starting points, as they assess needs and connect individuals to the right support.
For organisations wanting to support individuals in improving confidence or finding employment, SDS is the first contact. Various resources are available to help learners identify transferable skills. You can download our RPL Reflection document – see ‘Useful links below’ – to start the reflection process.
For career development, many employers integrate learning recognition into performance.
Accessing RPL
Careers guidance staff or training providers typically help those seeking work or further training.
Local authority community learning teams support those looking to build confidence and self-esteem.
For career development, support usually comes from line managers or HR teams.
Useful Links
Your Results
Scenario 1
I have learned through life experience, volunteering, evening courses, on-the-job training or in a professional context, but never got a certificate.Outcome 3
I want to gain recognition of my learning to either gain entry to a learning programme that’s on the SCQF, such as a college or university course, or to gain exemption from particular parts of the programme.Summary
This type of RPL involves reflecting on learning gained through life experience and showing that it is comparable to the entrance requirements of an SCQF credit-rated programme. It can also be used to gain exemption for specific modules, or to allow for entry to a learning programme at an advanced stage.
Learners must provide evidence of their skills and knowledge to prove they can handle the programme or to qualify for exemption from certain modules.
You should advise learners that assessment will likely be used to gather this evidence, which could be written, oral, or practice-based.
Common requirements
Learners should research which providers offer the programme they want to study and contact them directly, as each has its own RPL policy and assessment process. It’s a good idea to check with multiple learning providers before starting an RPL claim.
They can kick-start their RPL reflection using our ‘RPL Reflection document in ‘Useful links’ below. The My World of Work website is also a very useful resource, featuring advice and tools to help people reflect on their skills and experiences.
Accessing RPL
Learning providers offering RPL will have skilled facilitators who understand the programmes and the skills needed for completion or exemption from parts of an SCQF credit-rated programme.
Since the programme is SCQF credit-rated, applicants must link their experience, knowledge, and skills to SCQF level descriptors. If seeking exemption, they must demonstrate their knowledge meets the programme’s SCQF level requirements.
For best practice, the assessor should be different from the one who helped the learner prepare their RPL claim.
Learners making an RPL claim will likely need support and clear information about the process and expected outcomes. They should be assured that the RPL process is learner-focused, reliable, transparent, consistent, and quality assured according to the organisation’s usual assessment criteria.
Useful Links
Your Results
Scenario 1
I have learned through life experience, volunteering, evening courses, on-the-job training or in a professional context, but never got a certificate.Outcome 2
I want to gain recognition of my learning to gain entry or advanced entry into a learning programme which is not on the SCQF. It could also be used as evidence of professional competence/standards for practice.Summary
This approach to RPL can help if learners don’t meet the entry requirements of a learning programme.
Learners may be able to use RPL as an alternative to the entry requirements, to gain advanced entry into the second or third year of a course, or to gain exemption from certain modules. In these cases, they would have to demonstrate they have the knowledge, competency and skills comparable to the entry requirements, or for the programme modules they wish to gain exemption from. The learner might undergo some form of assessment, which may be written and/or oral or practical.
Common requirements
There are a number of organisations which will support people who may be looking to move into training and they use a range of resources that support the reflective process. Organisations include Skills Development Scotland, local authorities’ community learning teams and training providers, including your local college or university.
The first contact point would be Skills Development Scotland. You can also use our RPL Reflection document, available in ‘Useful links’ below. The My World of Work website is particularly useful, with lots of tools and quizzes to help you reflect on your skills and achievements.
Training providers, colleges and universities will be able to offer guidance to learners on what they would accept as RPL for access or advanced entry.
You should make it clear to learners that this process is a development opportunity to enable them to recognise their own skills and abilities, and may shorten the path to their chosen learning programme.
Accessing RPL
Learning providers offering RPL will have skilled facilitators to support learners. These facilitators are familiar with the programmes and know what knowledge and skills applicants need to succeed or start at an advanced level. Since the programme isn’t SCQF credit-rated, applicants don’t need to match their experience to SCQF levels, though using the level descriptors as a guide is recommended.
A learner making a claim for RPL will be supported throughout the process, and the likely outcome(s) of the claim should be made clear from the outset.
Useful Links
Your Results
Scenario 1
I have learned through life experience, volunteering, evening courses, on-the-job training or in a professional context, but never got a certificate.Outcome 1
I want to achieve recognition for the skills and knowledge I have gained through life experience to improve my confidence, develop or improve a CV, identify career paths or plan my next steps in learning.Summary
This RPL approach helps learners recognise their transferable skills, strengths and weaknesses. It is particularly valuable for people who may have left school with little or no formal qualifications, the long term unemployed, people seeking career progression, and those returning to work after a break.
This process helps individuals reflect on their strengths and weaknesses, boosting their self-esteem and confidence. It also guides them in finding the right career or education path, or volunteering opportunity.
This type of RPL can help people improve their CV or pinpoint skills for a job application. It can also be used in performance development reviews to support job promotions.
Commons requirements
Which organisations might carry this out?
Skills Development Scotland, Community Learning teams within local authorities and private training providers can help. The first contact point would be Skills Development Scotland or Jobcentre Plus who would either offer support, or signpost to relevant organisations.
There are resources available to support a learner with identifying transferable skills. We offer a resource pack, My Skills My Future, and train organisations on how to use it. Information about My Skills, My Future can be found here. We also have an RPL Reflection document, available in ‘Useful links’ below. The My World of Work website is also a very useful website, featuring advice and tools to help people reflect on their skills.
For those wishing to use RPL for career development, many employers will build this into performance management reviews.
You should make it clear to learners that this process is a development opportunity to enable them to recognise their own skills and abilities so they can reflect on future options.
Accessing RPL
Careers guidance staff or training providers support those who are looking to get into work or further training. These staff are qualified in the area of guidance and experienced in RPL facilitation.
For those looking for career development, support usually comes from line managers or HR teams.
Useful Links
Your Results
Scenario 3
I have a training or learning certificate from a programme that is on the SCQF Framework.Outcome 3
I want to gain recognition of my learning to either gain entry to a learning programme that’s on the SCQF, such as a college or university course, or to gain exemption from particular parts of the programme.Summary
This RPL method helps you to demonstrate the value of your qualifications to another SCQF credit-rated learning learning programme’s entry requirements.
Your qualification may help you gain admission without any further evidence needed.
However, you may still have to provide your experiences of subject-specific requirements to gain entry, or advanced entry, to the programme. If your programme has been achieved in a work or community setting, the SCQF level will show parity of esteem to those achieved in a college or university setting.
Requirements & FAQs
What is an articulation agreement?
Articulation agreements map a pathway between two or more colleges or universities and their learning programmes. Applicants should check with the college regarding any articulation pathways they have in place with universities to help them best decide which university they are aiming to articulate too.
Where do I find out about existing articulation agreements?
Entrance requirements and articulation agreements will be on college and university websites.
Can I use my SCQF credit as RPL towards any other SCQF programmes?
Where an articulation arrangement has been set up by a college to link to a university, it is likely the college will use the agreement to help you make the most of any advanced entrance points. You can ask for RPL towards any programme of study. A learning programme on the SCQF can be used against another SCQF credit-rated programme and the amount of credit that you are offered is at the learning provider’s discretion.
What if the learning provider doesn’t recognise RPL?
There is no requirement for any learning provider to accept RPL as an alternative to entrance requirements. Check with your chosen provider beforehand.
RPL: The process
Who might carry this out?
This will be a facilitator appointed by the learning provider, who will have admissions authority, or be able to award the unit or qualification you wish to claim RPL for.
What type of information will they want to know?
They might want to know:
- What was the aim of the course you completed?
- What skills did you use to complete the learning?
- Did you work with others, produce project work or write essays or reports?
- How long did it take you?
- What did it qualify you to do?
By explaining the nature and level of the learning you achieved, you will help the learning provider understand your capabilities and achievements.
How long will it take?
This varies and depends largely on how much time you can commit, staff availability to support the process, and what entrance requirement you may be trying to prove.
How much will it cost?
The process may incur a cost, however this may be less than it would cost you if you were to pay for the programme, module or units of study, or to gain the entrance qualifications.
Can I get any funding for this?
There is currently no government funding for this.
Useful Links
Your Results
Scenario 3
I have a training or learning certificate from a programme that is on the SCQF Framework.Outcome 2
I want to gain recognition of my learning to gain entry or advanced entry into a learning programme which is not on the SCQF. It could also be used as evidence of professional competence/standards for practice.Summary
If you have a certificate from a programme that has an SCQF level, it will help other learning providers in the RPL process. They will use your SCQF level to compare what you have learned with their learning programme’s outcomes.
Some degrees may give you accreditation/exemption with professional bodies, even if the programmes themselves are not credit rated. Your degree provider might have a formal agreement with the professional body, outlining any accreditation or exemptions you could receive. This information is often highlighted in the programme’s promotional material.
Professional accreditation in some sectors, for example in accountancy, is a requirement to practice and being able to use your previous qualifications to gain exemption(s) from parts of a learning programme can fast track your career.
This RPL approach can also be used to gain entry to a programme where you may not meet the entrance requirements, but can demonstrate the knowledge and skills to gain entry.
Requirements & FAQs
What if the learning provider does not recognise RPL?
There is no requirement for any learning provider to accept RPL as an alternative to standard entrance requirements. Check with your chosen provider or professional body beforehand.
How do I prove that I have the relevant qualifications to ask for entry or exemption?
Learning providers and professional bodies offer guidance on normal entry requirements for programmes. However, you may be able to use RPL as an alternative to these entrance requirements. In these cases, you would have to demonstrate that you have the knowledge, competency and skills aligned to the entry requirements. You should also be able to refer to the course syllabus to show the content of your learning. As agreements may have been set up between institutions and professional bodies. you may simply have to show your original certificate(s) and/or transcript(s) as proof of the learning achieved.
Why is my new programme not recognised on SCQF and how can I check this?
There is no requirement for programmes to be credit rated to the SCQF and this decision lies with the learning provider. To check what is on the SCQF, please refer to our Register.
RPL: The process
Who might carry this out?
You should approach the professional body or learning provider that you are looking to gain entry to. If an agreement has already been made for module exemptions, you may simply have to email your documentation to the organisation. If no formal agreement is in place, the first step will likely be an interview with someone in the organisation who will help you identify how your previous learning links with the admission criteria.
What type of information will they want to know?
They might want to know:
- Any exemptions that you were offered and to which professional bodies
- What was the aim of the course you completed?
- What skills did you use to complete the learning?
- Did you work with others, produce project work, or write essays or reports?
- How long did it take you?
- What did it qualify you to do?
By explaining the nature and level of the learning you achieved, you will help the learning provider understand your capabilities and achievements.
How long will it take?
This varies and depends largely on how much time you can commit to this and staff availability to support the process. It also depends on what entrance requirements you may be trying to prove.
How much will it cost?
There may be a charge for this service, and you should ask the professional body or learning provider.
Useful Links
Your Results
Scenario 3
I have a training or learning certificate from a programme that is on the SCQF Framework.Outcome 1
I want to achieve recognition for the skills and knowledge I have gained through life experience to improve my confidence, develop or improve a CV, identify career paths or plan my next steps in learning.Summary
This RPL approach involves identifying the transferable skills gained from a learning programme that’s on the SCQF. This learning could be from school, college, university or in-house training. You will have used a wide variety of transferable skills, such as:
- Working in groups
- Meeting assessment deadlines
- Delivering presentations
- Writing for exams
- Research techniques
Recognising your skills will improve your confidence and help you to match your transferable skills to job requirements, or to the entry requirements of another learning programme.
Requirements & FAQs
Who might carry this out?
If you want to move into a job after school, college or university, your guidance teacher, personal tutor, or careers adviser can support you. They can help you identify the transferable skills you have gained and how they link to the skills required for the job you are applying to. If you are returning to work and would like to improve your confidence and self-esteem, contact Skills Development Scotland or your local community learning team to help you with this process. The My World of Work website is particularly useful, with lots of tools and quizzes to help you reflect on your skills. If you are in work, speak to your line manager.
What type of information will they want to know?
They might want to know:
- What skills did you use to complete the learning?
- Did you work with others, produce project work, or write essays or reports?
- Did you sit exams?
- How did you prepare for your assessments?
- What did it qualify you to do?
By understanding and explaining the nature and level of the learning you achieved, you will help the employer or learning provider understand your capabilities and achievements and improve your confidence.
How long will it take?
This varies and depends on what you are hoping to gain from the process and the staff available to support you.
How much will it cost?
This process will be free in a school, college and university. Skills Development Scotland and community learning teams will also offer this free of charge. This should also be free to employees.
RPL: The process
Is this done 1:1 or in a group environment?
The exercise is normally carried out on a 1-1 basis.
How to get this started?
Make enquiries in school, college, university, employer or with your local council, job centre or Skills Development Scotland office.
Useful Links
Your Results
Scenario 2
I have a training or learning certificate, but the programme is not credit rated on the SCQF Framework.Outcome 3
I want to gain recognition of my learning to either gain entry to a learning programme that’s on the SCQF, such as a college or university course, or to gain exemption from particular parts of the programme.Summary
This RPL type focuses on showing the knowledge and understanding gained from certificated learning that is not on the SCQF, and having it recognised as entry requirements to a learning programme that is on the SCQF. It can also be used for advanced entry to an SCQF credit-rated course or exemption from certain modules.
You must demonstrate your ability to work at a specific SCQF level for entrance purposes. Claiming SCQF credit for advanced entry will involve comparing your previous learning with the learning outcomes of the new programme, module or units. For example, if you have certificates from a marketing body and are looking to claim credit towards a business programme, you may be able to demonstrate learning that fulfils this specific area of the business programme.
Requirements & FAQs
What if the learning provider does not recognise RPL?
There is no requirement for any learning provider to accept RPL. Check with your chosen provider or professional body beforehand.
What resources?
You may need access to a computer, and be able to source evidence from your past experiences. The learning provider should direct you to any other resources that you may need.
Why is my learning not credit rated to the SCQF Framework?
There is no requirement for programmes to be credit rated to our Framework and this decision lies with the learning provider.
Can I check what learning is credit rated to the SCQF?
Yes, our searchable register features all SCQF credit rated learning programmes.
RPL: The process
Who might carry this out?
A professional facilitator at the learning provider can help guide you through the process.
What type of information might they want to know?
They might want to know:
- What was the aim of the course you completed?
- What skills did you use to complete the learning?
- Did you have to work with others, produce project work or write essays or reports?
- How long did it take you?
- What did it qualify you to do?
By explaining the nature and level of the learning you achieved, you will help the learning provider understand your capabilities and achievements.
Is this done 1:1 or in a group environment?
The first step will likely be a 1-1 interview with a facilitator in the organisation.
How long will it take?
This varies and depends largely on what certification you have and how this can be mapped against the programme of study that you are hoping to gain entry to.
How much will it cost?
You may have to pay for this service, however, it may be cost-effective when compared to the length of time and the cost that it would take you to study the equivalent entry. Each learning provider body will have its own fee structure.
Useful Links
Your Results
Scenario 2
I have a training or learning certificate, but the programme is not credit rated on the SCQF Framework.Outcome 2
I want to gain recognition of my learning to gain entry or advanced entry into a learning programme which is not on the SCQF. It could also be used as evidence of professional competence/standards for practice.Summary
This RPL approach involves taking a piece of certificated learning and having it recognised by other learning or training providers. You would then use this recognition to gain entry, or advanced entry, to a learning programme. The learner provider will need to understand the value of your previous learning as there will be no SCQF levels to guide them.
You will have certificate(s) and/or transcript(s) as evidence of the learning and you may be able to refer to the course syllabus for further evidence of your learning.
Requirements & FAQs
What if the learning provider does not recognise RPL?
There is no requirement for any learning provider to accept RPL as an alternative to entrance requirements, or allow advanced entry to a programme. Check with your chosen learning provider beforehand.
Who will carry this out?
The learning provider’s facilitator will help guide you through the process and help manage your expectations. The amount of credit you may be offered for your previous certificated learning will differ from one learning provider to another, depending on the programme and policies.
Why is learning not credit rated to the SCQF?
There is no requirement for programmes to be credit rated to the SCQF and this decision may be for a variety of reasons.
Can I check what learning is credit-rated to the SCQF?
To check what is on the framework, visit our register.
RPL: The process
Is this done 1:1 or in a group environment?
The first step will likely be a 1-1 interview with a staff member at the learning provider.
What type of information might they want to know?
They might want to know:
- What was the aim of the course you completed?
- What skills did you use to complete the learning?
- Did you have to work with others, produce project work, or write essays or reports?
- How long did it take you?
- What did it qualify you to do?
By explaining the nature and level of the learning you achieved, you will help the learning provider understand your capabilities and achievements.
Where can I get help?
The learning provider should be able to help you with the process.
How long will it take?
This varies and depends largely on the individual and staff availability to support the process.
How much will it cost?
Each learning provider will have its own fee structure. You may have to pay, however, it may be more cost-effective when compared to the length of time and the cost it would take you to study the equivalent entry requirements, programme or professional body.
Is there any funding available for this?
There is currently no government funding to go through the RPL process.
Useful Links
Your Results
Scenario 2
I have a training or learning certificate, but the programme is not credit rated on the SCQF Framework.Outcome 1
I want to achieve recognition for the skills and knowledge I have gained through life experience to improve my confidence, develop or improve a CV, identify career paths or plan my next steps in learning.Summary
This RPL approach helps you to recognise the knowledge, skills and experiences you have gained in work or learning activities. Identifying transferable skills, strengths and weaknesses can be a valuable process in supporting the move into training, further education or work.
It can improve your confidence and self-esteem, and by identifying your skills, help with CV building.
It can also support career development by highlighting the skills you have, which can be used for job promotion or in a performance review.
Requirements & FAQs
Which organisations will assist with RPL if I am unemployed?
Skills Development Scotland, community learning teams within local authorities and private training providers can provide support. The first contact point would be Skills Development Scotland or Jobcentre Plus who would either help, or signpost you to other relevant organisations.
Who will assist with RPL if I am looking for promotion?
If you want to have your learning recognised for career development, many employers will build the processes into performance management reviews, helping you to reflect on your progression.
How can I use RPL to improve my CV?
If you want to improve your CV, a number of organisations can help. Contact Skills Development Scotland, who will offer guidance, or signpost you to the relevant organisation.
How can I use RPL to identify my next steps in learning?
RPL encourages you to reflect on your skills and past learning, and exploring this can help you identify what subject of study you could pursue. Research the qualification you would like to achieve and look at the learning provider’s RPL policy on their website as a starting point before discussing this with them.
Why are my certificates not credit rated on the SCQF?
There is no requirement for training or programmes to be credit rated to the SCQF and this decision may be for a variety of reasons.
RPL: The Process
Who will carry this out?
Careers guidance staff or facilitators support those looking to get into work or further training. For career development, support may come from your line manager or HR team. To reflect on your learning so you can boost your CV, careers advisers at Skills Development Scotland can help. If you are looking to improve your confidence, community learning teams can provide guidance. The My World of Work website is particularly useful, with lots of tools and quizzes to help you reflect on your skills. You can also use our ‘Build Your Own RPL Reflection’, which will help you reflect on skills gained from past experiences in work, volunteering or life (see Useful Links below).
What if I’m refused RPL?
There is no guarantee that you will be offered RPL, either within the workplace or if you are unemployed, however, we do suggest that you make enquiries with various learning providers.
Will it get me a job or assist with my career progression?
The RPL process should build your confidence, although there is no guarantee of a job or promotion on completion.
What resources will I need?
You may need access to a PC which your local library should offer.
How long will it take?
The amount of time it takes varies and depends largely on the time you have to commit, and staff availability to support the process.
Will it cost anything?
Government bodies and employers are unlikely to charge for this service, although some private training providers will.
Useful Links
Your Results
Scenario 1
I have learned through life experience, volunteering, evening courses, on-the-job training or in a professional context, but never got a certificate.Outcome 3
I want to gain recognition of my learning to either gain entry to a learning programme that’s on the SCQF, such as a college or university course, or to gain exemption from particular parts of the programme.Summary
This RPL approach is for those who do not meet the entry requirements to a learning programme. The learning provider will have an RPL policy that explains what you must achieve in your RPL claim.
To gain entry to your desired programme, or exemption from part of it, you will need to show what you have learned from your own experiences. You will also have to demonstrate your ability to work at a specific SCQF level to succeed in the programme. Recognition is given for what has been learned from your experience and not for the experience itself.
It may also allow you to claim credit if you can show your previous learning meets the aims and learning outcomes of the programme or any of its modules.
Requirements & FAQs
Who might carry this out?
A facilitator within the learning provider or professional body can help guide you through the process.
Is it worth it?
Yes. If you do not meet the entry requirements of a learning programme, RPL can allow you to gain entry. It can also help you to gain exemption from certain modules of the programme, or advanced entry into year two or three, saving you time and money. If you are offered RPL, the amount of credit offered will depend on the relevance of your learning to the programme of study.
What if the learning provider doesn’t know about RPL?
All colleges and universities will have a policy on RPL and this should be on their website.
What if I’m refused RPL, or not given the opportunity?
The decision rests with the learning provider.
RPL: The process
How do I get started?
Research your desired qualification and choose a learning provider with an RPL policy. You can also complete our ‘Build Your Own RPL Reflection’, which will help you reflect on skills gained from past experiences in work, volunteering or life. The My World of Work website is particularly useful, with lots of tools and quizzes to help you reflect on your skills and achievements. See ‘Useful links’ below for links to both of these resources.
How do I link my previous learning to the requirements?
The facilitator will help you see how your learning aligns with the admission criteria, programme, module or unit you’re hoping to gain recognition for. They’ll tell you how evidence of your learning will be assessed. Facilitators will provide guidance, ensure access to necessary materials, and help you maintain realistic expectations.
How long will it take?
The amount of time it takes varies and depends largely on the time you have to commit, and staff availability to support the process.
Will it cost anything?
The process may incur a cost, however this cost may be less than if you were to pay the cost of the programme, module or units of study, or the cost of study to gain the entrance qualifications.
Can I get any funding for this?
There is currently no public funding for this activity.
Useful Links
Your Results
Scenario 1
I have learned through life experience, volunteering, evening courses, on-the-job training or in a professional context, but never got a certificate.Outcome 2
I want to gain recognition of my learning to gain entry or advanced entry into a learning programme which is not on the SCQF. It could also be used as evidence of professional competence/standards for practice.Summary
This approach to RPL can help if you don’t meet the entry requirements of a learning programme.
You may be able to use RPL as an alternative to the entry requirements, or to gain advanced entry. In these cases, you would have to demonstrate that you have the knowledge, competency and skills which are comparable to the entry requirements, or for the parts of the programme where you feel you already have the knowledge and skills. You might undergo some form of assessment, which may be written and/or oral or practical.
Professional bodies may also be able to offer recognition.
The RPL process will improve your reflective practice skills. Reflecting on your abilities can boost your confidence which can, in turn, help you demonstrate the entry requirements of a programme.
Common requirements and FAQs
What if the learning provider does not recognise RPL?
There is no requirement for any learning provider or professional body to accept RPL as an alternative to standard entrance requirements. We suggest you check with your learning provider before undertaking RPL.
Who might carry this out?
A facilitator within the learning provider or professional body can help guide you through the process. They will inform you of the programme’s entry requirements, guide you through the process and help to keep your expectations realistic. You may be asked to build a portfolio of work that verifies the learning you have previously achieved.
Will it cost anything?
Yes, however, RPL saves you time and money in the long-term by shortening the length of time it takes to achieve a qualification.
Why is the programme not credit rated to the SCQF?
There is no requirement for programmes to be credit rated on the SCQF and this decision lies with the learning provider.
Can I check what learning is credit rated to the SCQF?
To check what is on the SCQF, please refer to our register.
RPL: The process
How do I get started?
Contact the learning provider. The first step will likely be a face to face 1-1 interview with a facilitator in the organisation. You can also complete our ‘Build Your Own RPL Reflection’, which will help you reflect on skills gained from past experiences in work, volunteering or life (see Useful Links below). The My World of Work website is particularly useful, with lots of tools and quizzes to help you reflect on your skills and achievements.
How do I link my previous learning to the requirements?
You will need to understand exactly how your learning from past experiences will be assessed against the learning programme’s requirements and outcomes. The facilitator should offer guidance and make sure you have access to the relevant material and information about the learning programme.
How long will it take?
The amount of time it takes varies and depends largely on the time you have to commit, and staff availability to support the process.
Useful Links
Your Results
Scenario 1
I have learned through life experience, volunteering, evening courses, on-the-job training or in a professional context, but never got a certificate.Outcome 1
I want to achieve recognition for the skills and knowledge I have gained through life experience to improve my confidence, develop or improve a CV, identify career paths or plan my next steps in learning.Summary
This RPL approach helps you to recognise your transferable skills, strengths and weaknesses. It is particularly valuable for people who may have left school with little or no formal qualifications, the long-term unemployed, people seeking career progression, and those returning to work after a break. Identifying these skills and traits can be a valuable process in supporting the move into training, further education or work. It can also raise your confidence and self-esteem, and help you make a plan for the future.
This type of RPL can help you to improve your CV or to pinpoint skills for a job application. It can also be used in performance development reviews to support job promotions.
Commons requirements and FAQs
Which organisations offer support?
Organisations like Skills Development Scotland (SDS), Community Learning teams within local authorities and private training providers can help. The first contact point would be Skills Development Scotland or Jobcentre Plus who would either offer you support, or signpost you to relevant organisations. For career progression, speak with your line manager.
What resources will I need?
Access to a PC, usually available at local libraries.
What if they don’t know about RPL? Or if I’m refused RPL, or not given the opportunity?
Seek guidance from another training provider, or institution.
Will it help me to get a job?
While there are no guarantees this process will help you get a job, it will improve your ability to identify suitable jobs and help you showcase your skills to match the requirements of the role.
For those wishing to use RPL for career development, many employers will build these processes into performance management reviews, helping you to reflect on your next career step. For help on improving your CV, contact Skills Development Scotland or Jobcentre Plus, who will assess your requirements and either offer help or signpost you to the right help. The My World of Work website has lots of useful tools (see Useful Links below).
The RPL process
Who might carry this out?
Careers guidance staff, community learning advisers or training providers will support those seeking work or further training. For career development support, speak to your line manager or HR team. If you want to reflect on your learning so you can improve your CV, careers advisers from Skills Development Scotland will offer help. The My World of Work website is particularly useful, with lots of tools and quizzes to help you reflect on your skills and achievements. You can also complete our ‘Build Your Own RPL Reflection’, which will help you reflect on skills gained from past experiences in work, volunteering or life (see Useful Links below).
Is this done 1:1 or in a group environment?
The exercise is normally carried out on a 1-1 basis.
How long will it take?
It varies and depends on the time you have to commit, and staff availability to support the process.
Will it cost anything?
Most government bodies provide this service for free. However, if you are using a professional facilitator within an organisation, they may charge for this service.