Get credit for prior learning

The purpose of this policy is to ensure students at FSDP have an avenue to apply for their previous study to be formally recognized and be awarded credit.

• Credit transfer application form
• Recognition of prior learning application form

The policy applies to prospective and current students.

Students seeking entry into the Foundation or Diploma program may be eligible to have their previous studies/experiences formally recognized by being awarded credit. Such credit is available under three separate sets of circumstances:

• Block credit for Stage A of a Foundation Studies program: Some students may be eligible for entry into a Foundation Studies program with one semester’s credit granted, in recognition of studies and/or experience that clearly exceeds the prescribed entry requirements for the program. Such credit is granted as a block credit, not for individual subjects, and enables qualifying students to complete the Foundation Studies Program in one semester.
• Block credit for Stage B of an Accelerated Diploma program: Some students may be eligible for entry into an Accelerated Diploma program with one semester’s credit granted, in recognition of studies and/or experience that clearly exceeds the prescribed entry requirements for the program. Such credit is granted as a block credit, not for individual subjects, and enables qualifying students to complete their Diploma within two semesters.
• Individual credit for university level Diploma subjects: Students who have previously studied at a tertiary level may be eligible for credit for individual university level subjects contained within a Diploma program. Previous studies must be equivalent in content and standard to those offered at La Trobe University and they must be relevant to the student’s planned course of study.

The procedure by which credit will be considered is set out below.

Block credit for Stage A of a Foundation Studies program or Stage B of an Accelerated Diploma program.

Students must formally apply for credit, using one of two methods:

• At the time of application, by completing the relevant section of the application form or;
• At or after commencement of course, by completing the Foundation Studies and Diploma Program form headed ‘Application for credit’. Such applications must be made within two weeks of commencement of their course to the Admission Department.

Students must also supply the following documentation in order for their application to be considered:

• If block credit is sought on the basis of previous academic achievement, certified documentation proving the qualification achieved and/or academic level reached.
• If block credit is sought on the basis of other life experience, certified documentation proving the length and nature of such experience.
• Applications for block credit should be submitted to the Admissions Officer.