Credit Transfer Explained

Understanding Credit Transfer (CT) – A Student-Friendly Guide

When enrolling with National Training Solutions in a nationally recognised course, you might already have completed some of the same units in a previous qualification. If that’s the case, Credit Transfer could save you time, effort, and money. Here’s what you need to know.

What is Credit Transfer?

Credit Transfer (CT) is a formal process that allows you to receive credit for units of competency you’ve already completed in another course. These units must be from a nationally recognised training program delivered by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).

How is Credit Transfer Different from RPL?

Great question! While both Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can help you avoid repeating learning, they serve different purposes and are assessed differently:

  • Credit Transfer is based on formal qualifications or units of competency you’ve already completed through a nationally recognised course. These units must be deemed equivalent to those in your current course.
  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) considers both formal and informal learning. This includes units of competency that are not equivalent, as well as knowledge and skills gained through work experience, volunteering, or other life experiences that relevant to the unit of competency applying for.


In short:

Credit Transfer = Same or equivalent units you’ve already completed.
RPL = Skills and knowledge gained through experience, even if you haven’t studied it in a formal course.

 

Example of Credit Transfer:

Let’s say you previously studied a Certificate III in Community Services and completed a unit called ‘CHCDIV001 Work with Diverse people’. If you enrol in another qualification that also requires this unit, you may be eligible for credit transfer and won’t need to complete it again.

Looking to learn more about RPL?

If you’d like to learn more about Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), check out our dedicated RPL page for everything you need to know.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS WHEN APPLYING FOR CREDIT TRANSFER

You can apply for credit transfer if:

  • You’ve completed a unit with the same code and title as one in your new course.
  • The unit is considered equivalent (sometimes unit codes change, but the content stays the same).

NTS Trainers and Assessors will review the evidence of your previous studies and decide if the credit can be granted.

To apply, you’ll need to show official proof of your past studies, such as:

  • A Certificate
  • A Statement of Attainment
  • An Academic Transcript


You will also need to
grant us access to your USI for verification.  These documents must clearly list the units you’ve completed and the RTO that issued them.

There are several benefits to credit transfer:

  • Saves time – You won’t need to redo the same learning.
  • Saves money – Your student fees will be reduced for the units you don’t have to repeat.
  • Focus your energy – You can concentrate on learning new content instead of revisiting what you already know.

Yes! If you’re granted credit transfer for one or more units, your course fees will be updated to reflect that you’re doing fewer units ($75 per each CT unit).

Once our team of trainers and assessors have reviewed the evidence of your previous studies and decided if the credit can be granted, we will calculate your new course fee.

When completing your course application, make sure to tick the units you wish to apply for under Credit Transfer.

Alternatively, simply reach out to the Training Team at NTS—they’ll walk you through the process and explain everything you need to know.

If you’re unsure whether you qualify for credit transfer, don’t hesitate to speak with the team at NTS. We’re here to help you make the most of your prior learning!

Can I talk to someone about CREDIT TRANSFER?

Yes, you can call National Training Solutions on 1300 161 844, Monday to Friday 9 am to 4 pm. Our staff will be on hand to take your call.