---
title: Accredited and Recognised Prior Learning
description: Find out about TQUK's approach to accredited prior learning and recognised prior learning.
---
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28 October 2026
# Accredited and Recognised Prior Learning
## Accredited and Recognised Prior Learning (APL/RPL) enables learners to use relevant previous learning and achievements towards a qualification, helping to avoid unnecessary duplication of learning and assessment.
### **Applying for APL/RPL**
For learners to apply prior learning towards a qualification, centres are required to complete an Accredited Prior Learning application form and submit this alongside appropriate supporting evidence of the learner’s previous achievement.
Once submitted, VQA reviews all accredited prior learning applications within 48 hours. Our EQA Team determine whether the learner meets the required criteria and whether the evidence provided is sufficient to support the claim.
Centres will receive written confirmation of the decision, whether approved or disapproved, including a completed and authorised form confirming approval where applicable. This documentation must be retained within the learner’s portfolio and made available for External Quality Assurance (EQA) purposes.
### **Learner eligibility for APL/RPL**
Learners who have previously achieved the same unit within another regulated qualification are eligible for credit transfer. In these cases, the unit previously achieved must be identical in content, learning outcomes, and assessment criteria to the unit being claimed. Evidence such as certificates or authenticated unit transcripts must be provided to confirm achievement.
Learners who hold a certificated achievement within the RQF or QCF may be eligible to claim equivalence. This applies when completed units are considered equivalent in content, level, learning outcomes, and demand to the unit or units they aim to achieve within the current qualification. Centres must provide clear evidence demonstrating the equivalence between the prior learning and the current unit requirements.
Learners who have achieved a certificated qualification outside of the RQF or QCF may be eligible to claim an exemption from achieving credits for specific units. Exemptions can only be granted where this is explicitly permitted within the qualification specification. The specification will clearly identify which external achievements are acceptable as the basis for exemption and the units to which they apply. Exemptions are only permitted where the prior achievement is of equal or higher value to the unit being exempted.
### **Alternative learner eligibility**
For learners whose previous qualifications or experience fall outside of this remit, centres may apply their own Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) processes. This allows centres to assess and map the learner’s existing knowledge, skills, and experience against the requirements of the qualification they are working towards.
In these cases, VQA approval is not required. However, centres must ensure that there is clear, auditable evidence within the learner’s portfolio demonstrating how the assessment criteria have been met. Mapping documentation should be provided to show how the prior learning aligns with the relevant units and learning outcomes.
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