Recognition of Prior Learning
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is the generic term for learning assessment mechanisms such as the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) and the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL), which are used within Higher Education to describe the awarding of credit /exemptions to learners on the basis of demonstrated learning that has occurred prior to admission. It is the recognition of knowledge, skills and competencies gained either through formal education or through work experiences, informal training and life experiences.
RPL can be classified into two key areas:
Prior Certified Learning is learning that has already been accredited by an awarding body such as HETAC, FETAC or other state recognised colleges/institutes. Prior certified learning can also include qualifications received abroad. In seeking admission to a programme of study on the basis of prior certified learning applicants must submit as much detail as possible on their prior qualifications including transcripts of results, course and module descriptors
Prior Non Certified Learning / Prior Experiential Learning is learning acquired from experience or learning achieved from non accredited bodies e.g. learning acquired in the workplace.
Who can use RPL?
- RPL is open to everyone as a means of entering/ re-entering Higher Education or as a contribution towards a programme including:
- Adults returning to higher education with relevant skills gained through work experience/in-house training/life experience and voluntary activities/ professional memberships
- People seeking admission to a programme of study on the basis of qualifications achieved abroad or outside the Irish Education system
- People seeking to build on their existing qualifications
- People who wish to be considered for exemptions from modules within a programme of study on the basis of prior accredited or non accredited learning. Please refer to section on Exemptions below.
What if I do not meet the standard entry requirements of a programme at IT Sligo ?
If you do not satisfy the standard entry requirements as stated in the Programme details, it may be possible to seek admission to the programme of study on the basis of equivalent qualifications that you have achieved abroad and/or non-accredited learning that you have achieved through experience, in-house training, work based learning and/or Voluntary activities through our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Policy. Please note: the prior learning whether accredited or non-accredited must be equivalent to the standard as set in the Entry Requirements. Applicants with prior non-formal learning who wish to be considered for admission will be required to complete a portfolio and/or other forms of assessment to assess eligibility
Do IT Sligo recognise foreign qualifications ?
The answer is yes. However, if you are seeking admission on the basis of relevant foreign qualifications, you should contact Qualifications Recognition Ireland www.qualificationsrecognition.ie for advice on having your qualifications translated and aligned to the National Framework of Qualifications (if you have not already done so). This will be necessary in order to assess the relevance of your prior leaning to the programme of study that you wish to undertake. This process should be carried out well in advance of the deadline for applications at IT Sligo so that a decision can be made in advance of the course commencing.
Are there fees involved in RPL
Yes. Applicants seeking RPL for the purposes of admission or exemptions will be subject to an appropriate fee.
An application for APL will incur a non-refundable fee of €80 per module, payable in advance.
An application for APEL will incur a non-refundable fee of €350, payable in advance.
What is IT Sligo’s policy on Exemptions
As part of IT Sligo’s RPL policy, students may seek exemptions from modules where they can demonstrate that they have achieved the Learning Outcomes of the module they are seeking exemption from.
Students must be accepted onto and registered on a programme of study in order to make an application for exemption. You may apply for an exemption on the basis of:
- Prior Accredited Learning: Where you have already successfully completed a similar module (in terms of level and standard) as part of an Accredited Programme of study at IT Sligo or elsewhere. In making an application you must provide a copy of your transcript of results, course syllabus, copy of module descriptor in support of your application.
- Experiential/Non-Accredited Learning. includes gained through work based learning/ informal training and/or life experiences. You will be required to develop a portfolio of evidence and may also be called for interview as part of the assessment process.
Fees apply. Please discuss with the Open Learning Facilitator
Deadline for receipt of applications is first 15th September for modules delivered in Semester one
And 15th January for modules delivered in Semester 2
Who do I contact for further information On RPL at IT Sligo
All queries can be emailed to: rpl @ itsligo.ie