Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Recognition of Prior Learning is a term that refers to the principles and processes through which the prior knowledge and skills of a person are made visible, mediated and rigorously assessed and moderated for the purposes of alternative access and admission, recognition, or further learning and development. RPL, as defined nationally by SAQA, applies to informal or non-formal learning only. Learning resulting from formal routes will normally be recognised via Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CAT), but in cases where CAT is found not to be applicable, the RPL route may be explored.
Thus, if you were unable to gain access to the UFS through the normal formal channels, the RPL process could help.
Understanding RPL
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Definitions of concepts related to RPL
Principles of RPL
RPL seeks to grant admission to deserving candidates who experience barriers to meeting the formal requirements for admission or registration to higher education.
Furthermore, RPL is a pedagogical process that transforms informal and non-formal knowledge into formal and structured equivalents based on specific competencies. RPL is context specific in terms of the programme, the discipline and the institution.
What RPL is not?
RPL is NOT a process through which you can obtain a qualification without registering and studying for it. You can gain access to a programme through RPL, but a qualification is NOT granted on the basis of RPL alone. RPL is an acknowledgement that status equivalent to the prior qualification has been awarded for the soul purpose to access the qualification applied for.
The following requests do NOT qualify as RPL:
- We do not offer credit transfer exemption. The application for credits can be done through the faculty at UFS.
- RPL is not credit-bearing.
- RPL is not a status for a qualification obtained outside SA.
- If you have an existing qualification (from another higher education institution) and would like to continue your studies in the same discipline, you do NOT go through the RPL process. You follow the normal process of application.
- RPL does not offer credits for a module completed at UFS or another university.
- RPL is not equivalent to matriculation exemption.
- RPL is not obtaining a qualification without registering for it.
How to get started
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Stage 1: Decide what to study
Determine whether your RPL is for Undergraduate or Postgraduate studies:
- RPL for Undergraduate access (offered on the Qwaqwa Campus)
- RPL for Postgraduate access (offered on the Bloemfontein and Qwaqwa Campus)
- For more information on qualifications to access through RPL, please contact the RPL office or visit the relevant departmental webpage
What do I need to have to qualify for RPL?
- National Senior Certificate (i.e. Matric / Grade 12)
- Five years relevant work experience (or more, as determined by the Department)
- Completed workshops, short courses, and on-the-job training
- Be 23 years or older
Stage 2: Application process
RPL application
- Complete the RPL application form and email it to the relevant campus offering the qualification:
Bloemfontein campus
E: RPL@ufs.ac.za or
Qwaqwa campus
E: RPLQQ@ufs.ac.za
- Ensure that you have attached all the supporting documents as stated on the RPL application form.
RPL application fee- SA Citizens: R300.00 / International Citizens: R460.00 (application fee non-refundable)
- Refer to the RPL application form for banking details
2026 RPL documentation
2026 application form
Stage 3: RPL Process
The RPL process depends on whether you meet the requirements/criteria and can end at any time as a result of you not meeting the requirements or fulfilling the criteria.
Figure 1: The RPL process.
Bloemfontein campus
RPL Coordinator
Martie Meintjes
T: +27 51 401 7357
E: RPLOffice@ufs.ac.za
Qwaqwa campus
RPL Advisor
Siphesihle (Tracey) Langa
T: +27 58 718 5120
E: RPLQQ@ufs.ac.za