Entry to a Programme using RPL

What steps should I follow?

Research

Applicants should review the study opportunities available to them at ATU.  They are advised to research their desired programmes online or through a prospectus, and maybe attend an information session online or in-person to speak with academic staff or some of the admissions team. Details for scheduled information sessions may be found here: Events – Atlantic Technological University

Apply

Before beginning an RPL application, you must have applied for a place on your desired programme with ATU. Programmes that are accepting applications will have an “Apply Now” button on the programme webpage.

The RPL process is supplementary to the programme application, wherein the RPL process can be used as an alternative means of gaining entry to a programme where the formal entry requirements are not met.

If you do not meet the formal entry requirements, you are advised to indicate in the programme application that you would like to be considered for entry to the programme using RPL. Please provide as much detail as possible to support your programme application, such as current CV, formal qualifications, CPD/Training to allow the programme reviewer to determine if you are suitable for RPL.

Your programme application will be reviewed. You will be informed if you are referred for RPL. The RPL team will be aware if you have been referred for RPL and will follow up and provide you with the details for your next step.

Document

The RPL process will require you to provide evidence of your prior learning.  This is typically done through a portfolio of evidence. This stage involves a reflective process and gathering relevant materials to substantiate your application. One of the RPL team will provide you with the criteria for your portfolio of evidence and will be on hand to assist you with this stage of the process.

Assessment

Your portfolio of evidence will be assessed by one of the academic staff members of ATU.You may be called for an interview, to allow you a further opportunity to discuss your prior learning to support what has been documented. The relevant award standard at the required level for entry shall be used for the assessment. The RPL team will provide details of the award standard for your assessment including all assessment criteria, when they provide the criteria for your portfolio of evidence.

If the assessor concludes that the award standards for entry and all assessment criteria have been achieved, then entry to your programme of choice may be granted.

To ensure your RPL application for September 2025 is processed in a timely manner, we recommend for applicants to submit their application before Monday, the 30th June 2025.