Recognition of prior learning (RPL)

Learn more about Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit (RPC) – formerly known as AP(E)L.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL is an assessment process by which your informal learning can be assessed against formal certificated learning at the University of Surrey towards an award. Informal working can be:

  • Certificated workplace learning.
  • From professional healthcare experience.

Recognition of Prior Credit (RPC)

Formal learning with credits from a University or Higher Education Institute not studied at the University of Surrey or modules studied at the University of Surrey that were not taken as part of a programme. 

Credit assessment

The number of credits you can be assessed against differs for each level of learning. Please refer to the University's Code of practice for the recognition of prior learning and prior credit: taught programmes (PDF) and the Regulation for Taught Programmes for further details.

Demonstrating evidence

If you studied a module more than five years ago, you will have to demonstrate evidence of how you currently use this learning. This may be achieved through:

  • Portfolio of evidence
  • Extended Curriculum Vitae
  • Written reflection.

Please note: all evidence must be submitted electronically.

Levels of academic study

  • FHEQ 4- previously Level 1 (Certificate level)
  • FHEQ 5- previously Level 2 (Diploma)
  • FHEQ 6 – previously Level 3 (Degree)
  • FHEQ 7 – previously Level 4 (Master’s)

You can refer to The Frameworks for Higher Education Qualifications of UK Degree-Awarding Bodies (PDF) guide for further information.  

Submitting your application for RPL/RPC

Once you have received advice from the relevant person, you will then need to complete your application form. 

Professional preparatory (pre-qualification) programmes

Please email your completed form and evidence to recruitment@surrey.ac.uk.

Continuing Professional Development (post-qualification) programmes

Please email your completed form and evidence to your RPL adviser for checking.

Who to contact

Pre-registration programmes

Liza Balzhevski  
Email: l.blazhevski@surrey.ac.uk 

Post-registration programmes

Please contact the Director of Studies for the relevant programme:

RPL/RPC Lead for School of Health Sciences

Felicity Jones 
Email: felicity.jones@surrey.ac.uk

RPL/RPC Deputy Lead for School of Health Sciences 

Hayley Ward  
Email: h.ward@surrey.ac.uk