Recognised Prior Learning

Valuing all relevant learning

Also known as "Experiential learning", Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) is a method of learning that focuses on the learning that an individual has achieved either through the acquiring and use of practical skills, and the development of knowledge through discrete training, either formal or informal. RPL is not the "easy" alternative to the usual classroom and examination process - it is just different. RPL is an internationally recognised method for the recognition of previous learning and experience, and Governments within the EU have been encouraged to make the relevant arrangements for the recognition of RPL.

RPL is not unique to the IIPA, FETAC have already made full awards of qualifications based on the principle of the recognition of prior learning experiences. Participants in the IIPA's RPL program will be required to submit themselves to a rigorous knowledge and skills assessment based, not on exams, rather on the preparation of a portfolio of evidence which will be used as the basis of the assessment of the participants qualification to receive an award from the Institute of Incorporated Public Accountants.

Documentation and Assessment

Undergoing the RPL process

The prime method of assessment in RPL is the preparation and independent examination of a Portfolio of Evidence. The Portfolio will form the basis of a comparative assessment between the knowledge and skills acquired by the participant and the knowledge and skills required to attain one of out Professional Qualifications. Participants will be required to undergo the process in conjunction with our preferred service provider who will ensure that the participant understands the process and prepares a portfolio of the required standard.

Participants will be required to gather a considerable amount of evidence in support of their application for an IIPA Professional Qualification and the evidence gathered will include:

• Certificates and Diplomas received in a formal learning environment
• Results from examinations where no final certificate, diploma or other recognition was received
• Certificates of participation from formal but non-accredited training and/or education
• Comprehensive statement of experience, certified by the relevant employers and/or colleagues
• Any other evidence deemed appropriate

Participants may have to revisit the creation of this portfolio on a number of occasions until such time as it is deemed to be of sufficient standard for submission for assessment. The preparation of a portfolio is focused on matching the knowledge and experience of the individual to the learning outcomes of the relevant syllabus of the IIPA.

Possible Outcomes from Participating in the RPL Process

What can you reasonably expect?

Most participants will have a unique range of qualifications, knowledge and skills so to some extent it can be said that each outcome will be unique to the individual. Taking this as a given the possible outcomes can be grouped under a number of broad categories:

1. The Award of a Professional Qualification

Currently RPL participants can potentially achieve the necessary standard to be awarded one of three Professional Qualifications

• Incorporated Public Accounting Technician
• Certified Accounting Supervisor
• Incorporated Public Accountant

Achieving recognition at this level would represent a significant achievement by the individual concerned, and would only occur on foot of an extremely high quality Portfolio of Evidence.

2. Exemptions/Partial Credit

Participants who do not meet the standard for the award of a full qualification may still benefit from participating in the process - by the receipt of exemptions and/or partial credits. Where this is the outcome of the RPL process the participant will be offered a clear roadmap to the achievement of one of our Professional Qualifications.

Assuming that the participant has significant knowledge and experience that is relevant to the Accounting Profession, it is the preference of the Institute that the participant complete a set Case Study, or be assigned a project on a subject relevant to finance and/or their work. This may involve consultation between the participant, their employer, and the IIPA to identify a subject of mutual interest and benefit.

The work to be undertaken will be based on identified skills gaps which have come to light during the RPL process. The required coursework will combine specific work on the gaps identified with the need to demonstrate a broader understanding of the wider IIPA syllabus.

On rare occasions participants may be required to sit one or more exams on the IIPA syllabus. For people who fall under this category it will be a very unusual occurrence for an exam to have to be completed.

3. Little or no Credit Applicable

Some participants in the RPL process may achieve little or no credit for their previous learning or experience. This should become obvious at an early stage of the RPL exercise and alternative routes towards qualification identified. In this situation participants may be entitled to exemptions from individual subjects or may have to complete the full syllabus of the IIPA in the usual way. Where this is the case participants will be informed of this at the earliest opportunity.