Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL)

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) - The University welcomes applications from those with evidence of previous Higher Education (HE) study and this could be from either a UK or an overseas institution.  Individual module credits can be considered as part of this process, as well as completed qualifications such as a Certificate of Higher Education or a Foundation Degree.  The latter is also sometimes known as ‘credit transfer’ as well as ‘RPL’.

Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) - The University also welcomes applications from those who can provide evidence of previous experiential learning, which relates to knowledge and skills that have been gained through experience, such as through employment, volunteering or life experiences.  The success of applying through RPEL will depend upon how well previous knowledge, skills or experience can be matched against the module outcomes of the course being applied for. 

Procedure of Applying for RPL or RPEL - Applicants who would want to be considered for either RPL or RPEL need to complete the application form RPL/RPEL Form and return together with documentation such as certificates, module outcomes, transcripts, portfolio etc.  Applicants need to be aware that there is a time limit of 5 years for applicants claiming RPL or RPEL.

The evidence will then be considered by the department which will check if the modules/credits/experiential learning meets the learning outcomes of any of the course being applied for. They will also check that any pre-requisite or compulsory modules of the Aberystwyth course can be mapped to the modules/experience that the applicant has completed.

If the department should require any additional information, then they will contact the applicant directly.  Failure to respond or engage with the department could result in the application being withdrawn.  Additionally, if the applicant applies within four weeks of the start of the course, there may be insufficient time to consider the application which may be withdrawn or considered for the following intake.

If successful, then the credits already obtained can count towards study at Aberystwyth, ensuring that the applicant commences their course at the appropriate level, for example year 2 entry.  In addition, there will be instances where the applicant can be awarded partial credit, for example, they only need to complete 60 credits in year one.   In such circumstances, it will  reduce the number of modules/credits that the applicant needs to study to achieve their award at Aberystwyth.

Information about the Credit Accumulation and Transfer – Recognition of Prior Learning Policy is set out in the Academic Quality handbook: 9.3 Credit Accumulation and Transfer - Recognition of Prior Learning Policy and includes a table showing the minimum and maximum credit values of Postgraduate, Graduate and Undergraduate Qualifications and the credit transfer limits.

Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their RPL application by the Admissions Department and will be sent a copy of their completed application form for reference.