What is credit for recognised learning (CRL)?
Credit for recognised learning (CRL), also known as advanced standing, recognition of prior learning (RPL) or credit transfer, allows you to receive credit based on studies you’ve already completed or experiences you’ve gained. This means you may not need to repeat similar content in your Curtin course and you could finish your degree in a shorter amount of time.
Before you can apply for CRL, you must first submit your application for your chosen Curtin course. You will be assessed for CRL in relation to the course you’re applying for.
Who can apply
Credit for recognised learning is available to a wide range of students who have previous study, work experience or other learning that relates to their chosen course at Curtin.
You may be eligible for credit for recognised learning if you have:
- Completed formal study, such as units at Curtin or another recognised university
- Completed TAFE or VET qualifications, such as Diplomas or Advanced Diplomas
- Completed professional certifications or training, including industry-based or community education
- Relevant work or life experience, with skills or knowledge that apply to your new course
You may also be eligible if you’re:
- A current Curtin student switching courses
- A TAFE pathway student
- A mature age applicant
- A postgraduate applicant
- Studying through Open Universities Australia (OUA)
Whether you’re returning to study, changing careers or continuing your education after gaining experience elsewhere, CRL may help you reduce the time and cost of your Curtin degree.
When to apply for CRL
CRL is assessed at different points depending on your background and what you’re applying with.
You’ll initially be assessed for CRL by Curtin’s Admissions team when you apply for a course. This includes students applying with prior formal study. If you’re applying with work or life experience, you’ll need to submit a CRL application after receiving your offer.
After you receive your offer, you can submit a separate CRL application if:
- You believe you’re eligible for more credit than what’s shown in your Letter of Offer
- You’re applying with work or life experience
- You were not initially assessed for CRL during your course application
For international students
During your course application, you have the option to opt out of CRL. If you choose this, CRL will not be assessed or included in your Letter of Offer. Make sure to check the conditions in your application carefully.
If you’re not yet enrolled and want to apply for CRL, contact our International Admissions team to check your eligibility and next steps.
When to submit your CRL application
If you’re submitting a separate CRL application for units in your upcoming study period, you must apply by Friday of week 1. This applies to both domestic and international students, but does not apply to OUA students.
If you’re not applying for credit for units in your current or upcoming study period, this deadline doesn’t apply to you.
Estimate your credit
Before preparing your application, you can use the CRL search tool to check whether your units can be credited. This tool shows how CRL decisions have been made at Curtin and can help you understand what kind of learning has been credited in the past.
How to apply for CRL
Follow the steps below to find out what to do, what documents to prepare and what happens after you apply.
Things to consider
Before submitting your CRL application, please keep the following in mind:
Timeframe for recognition
Credit is generally considered for study or experience completed within the past 10 years. In some cases, such as when professional accreditation standards apply or your field has undergone significant changes, this timeframe may be shorter.
Level for study
- Units completed at undergraduate level are not typically eligible for credit toward postgraduate courses.
- CRL is usually considered for Australian and overseas qualifications above Australian Qualification Framework Diploma level or equivalent.
- Certificate IV qualifications are only considered for enabling or bridging courses.
Minimum Curtin study requirement
To graduate from Curtin, you must complete at least one third of your course or 200 credits at Curtin.
Policy and appeals
For full details about the policies and procedures related to CRL assessment and appealing against a credit decision, refer to the Credit for Recognised Learning Procedure.
International applicants
In some courses, you may be asked to provide extra information, such as unit outlines, to help assess your eligibility for CRL. If this applies to you, you’ll receive guidance during the application process.
Note: Any additional study undertaken outside Curtin after commencing a Curtin course may not be eligible for credit unless it has been pre-approved and completed through Curtin-approved programs.
Transfer units between Curtin courses
If you switch from one Curtin course to another, units you’ve already completed may be automatically credited to your new course if they are the same level and part of your new study plan.
This is known as auto-credit and no application is needed for these core units. Your grade and mark will transfer with the unit and count towards your course weighted average.
You do not need to include auto-credited units in your credit for recognised learning application. If unit transfers don’t appear on your study plan, please submit an enquiry.
You can also find more unit details by searching for your course in the handbook.