“Recognition of prior learning is a process whereby, through assessment, credit is given to learning which has already been acquired in different ways”. – SAQA
RPL is a process that allows candidates an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills. Candidates undergo a series of assessments specifically designed to assist them to display their competence. At the end of the assessment process each candidate is issued with credits for the learning that they have been able to display. These credits are linked to SAQA-registered qualifications. Through RPL, a candidate could earn credit for a few unit standards or a full qualification. RPL recognises any learning that the candidate has acquired, whether it was from formal training, workplace experience, or general life experience.
For more information visit Prior Learning CentreAll institutions should have an RPL Department or Centre. Here are a few direct links.
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT); contact number: 021 959 6611
- University of Cape Town(UCT); contact: 021 650 3999 / 3253 / 4782
- University of South Africa (UNISA)
- University of Western Cape (UWC)
- University of Free State (UFS); contact number 051 505 1272
- Walter Sisulu University (WSU); contact person: Mr Baleni, 047 502 2804
- North West University (NWU); contact person: Ms Sieberhagen, 018 299 4554
- University of Fort Hare(UFH); contact number: 043 704 7218 / 7227
- Wits University (Wits); contact number: 011 717 4064









