Accessibility statement

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) 

RPL overiew

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) allows applicants who are enrolling on award bearing taught programmes of study at the University of York to claim 'credit' for previous learning. The previous learning must be relevant to the programme for which they are applying, and if their application is successful, the credit will count towards their chosen programme of study.

Applicants may request exemption from modules on most taught programmes – both undergraduate and postgraduate – based on evidence of prior learning. A module is the smallest unit for which exemption can be claimed. Each candidate's application for RPL will be carefully mapped against the requirements of the chosen programme of study and assessed against the University RPL criteria; a decision will be made by the departmental RPL Committee.

Previous learning can have occurred in two ways, from personal and professional experience, or from undertaking formal courses of study.

  • Where learning is gained from personal and professional experience, this is known as Recognition of Prior and Experiential Learning (RPEL).
  • Where learning has occurred through formal study. This is referred to as Recognition of Prior Certificated Learning (RPCL).

Please note that there is a charge for processing and supporting an RPEL application. There is no charge for RPCL claims.

Part-time undergraduate programmes

When applying for a part-time degree (BA/BSc) level pathway you will be required to submit an RPL claim to claim 'credit' for your previous learning.  

It is important that you discuss your RPL claim before commencing your pathway with the Department. All applications for RPL should be submitted and approved before you commence your programme. Failure to do so will delay programme enrolment.

Transferring freestanding modules taken at the University of York

If you studied a freestanding module at the University of York and wish to accredit this towards an award bearing programme, you will need to submit an RPCL application to request the credit is officially transferred. Your RPCL application should be submitted and approved before you commence your programme. The prior learning must be current (ie within the last five years) and must be relevant and valid for the proposed programme of study you wish to accredit the module towards. For full guidance on accrediting freestanding modules, please refer to our guidance notes.