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Credit recognises learning you have completed through previous study or approved study outside your current ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵprogram. It is awarded when that learning is considered equivalent to the content and learning outcomes of courses in your program. 

Credit is awarded as either specified or unspecified credit, with a unit value attached (six units per course). The units awarded count towards the total units required to complete your program and may reduce the time it takes to finish your degree.

An exemption may be granted when your previous learning is considered equivalent to some of the learning outcomes of an ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵcourse. Exemptions are generally only granted for compulsory courses or courses that are prerequisites for other courses. 

If you receive an exemption, you are not required to complete the recognised course. However, no unit value is assigned to the exemption, so it does not count towards the unit or course requirements for your program. 

Formal learning is completed through an accredited education or training program that leads to a recognised qualification or part of a qualification.

This may include:

• Completed courses at an Australian university or an overseas institution of equivalent standing.
• Previous study at an ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵpartner institution.
• Completed microcredentials.

Examples: A completed Bachelor degree, postgraduate qualification, or university courses completed before commencing at ANU.

Non-formal learning is completed through a structured learning program that does not lead to an officially accredited qualification.

This may include:

• Professional development courses.
• Industry training programs.
• Structured short courses.
• Other completed training programs relevant to your ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵprogram.

Examples: A completed industry certification, professional training course or structured workplace training program.

Informal learning is gained through professional activities and practical experience. It is generally not delivered through a structured learning program.

This may include:

• Relevant professional or employment experience.
• Practical skills developed through your work.
• Industry experience and workplace responsibilities.
• Knowledge and skills gained through professional activities.

Examples: Professional experience in a relevant field, applying specialist knowledge in the workplace or developing technical skills through employment.

To help ensure your application can be assessed in a timely manner, please read the following information carefully.

• Prepare before applying. Check your program requirements, consider how credit or exemption may affect your study plan, and make sure you have all the required supporting documents.
• Apply as early as possible. Apply for credit or exemption as early as possible in your degree. Applications can take up to 20 business days to assess, and additional time may be needed if further information or supporting documents are required. If you apply too close to an enrolment deadline or census date, your application may not be assessed in time. You may need to enrol in or complete courses before receiving an outcome, even if those courses could otherwise have been recognised towards your program. Submitting an application does not guarantee an outcome before relevant enrolment deadlines or the census date.
• International students. Accepting credit may reduce the time needed to complete your program and change your expected program end date. This may affect your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Make sure you understand the implications before accepting credit.
• Already meet a course prerequisite? If you only need to demonstrate that you have met a course prerequisite to enrol in a later year course, you may need a permission code rather than a credit application. Check the course requirements before applying for credit.

Required documents

The supporting evidence you need to provide depends on the type of prior learning you are seeking to have recognised for credit or exemption.

Formal learning

Non-formal learning

Informal learning

Submit your application using the form. 

Your application should include all required supporting documents when you submit it. Incomplete applications may take longer to assess, and application may be denied where required evidence has not been provided.

Clearly identify the previous learning you want assessed and the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵcourse or program requirement you are seeking credit or exemption for, including any relevant major, minor or specialisation you want it to count towards.

Your application will be assessed based on the learning and requirements you identify. Do not assume that ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵwill automatically assess additional previous courses or apply credit to other parts of your program.

Complete applications are generally assessed within 20 working days.

Some applications may take longer where they are complex, require additional information or require consultation with academic staff.

If ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵneeds further information, you may be contacted during the assessment process. Check your ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵor applicant email regularly. 

If you are dissatisfied with a decision about your application for recognition of prior and external learning, you may have the right to appeal. Appeals are considered under the relevant ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵrules, policies and procedures.

Read your outcome carefully to understand whether you can appeal, the grounds for appeal and the process you need to follow. Your outcome will explain who to submit your appeal to, how to submit it and the timeframe for doing so.

You may also wish to seek independent advice from the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵDean of Students or ANUSA before lodging an appeal.

For more information about the appeal process, including the stages of appeal and how to submit an appeal, visit the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵDecisions made under the Awards Rules webpage.