If you're exploring Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as a pathway to a formal qualification, you'll almost certainly come across the term gap training. While the two are closely related, they serve very different purposes in the assessment process. Understanding the distinction can help you set realistic expectations before you begin.
Recognition of Prior Learning is a formal assessment process used by Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) to evaluate the skills, knowledge and experience you've already gained through work, life experience, informal training or previous study. An assessor compares the evidence you provide — such as work samples, references, photos, logbooks or third-party reports — against the specific units of competency listed in a nationally recognised qualification on training.gov.au.
If your evidence sufficiently demonstrates that you already meet the requirements of a unit, the assessor can deem you competent without you having to complete additional coursework for that unit.
Gap training is what happens when the RPL assessment identifies that you don't yet have enough evidence to demonstrate competency in one or more units. Rather than failing you outright, the assessing RTO will typically outline the specific skills or knowledge you still need to acquire — the "gap" — and provide a structured way to close it. This might involve:
Gap training is usually far shorter and more targeted than a full qualification, because it only addresses the specific units or elements where evidence was lacking — not everything you already know.
RPL assesses what you already know. Gap training teaches or verifies what you don't yet know or haven't proven.
RPL happens first, as an assessment against the qualification. Gap training only occurs afterward, and only if gaps are identified.
RPL can potentially cover an entire qualification if your evidence is strong enough. Gap training is narrow and unit-specific, targeting only the missing competencies.
Both pathways can lead to the same nationally recognised qualification, issued by the RTO once all units are satisfied — either through RPL alone or through a combination of RPL and gap training.
Many applicants worry that being asked to complete gap training means their RPL application has "failed." In reality, gap training is a normal and common part of the RPL process. Very few applicants have documented evidence covering 100% of a qualification's requirements, particularly for units involving current legislation, workplace health and safety updates, or specific technical procedures. Gap training simply ensures the qualification you receive genuinely reflects nationally consistent competency standards, in line with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).
Every RPL assessment decision, including whether gap training is required, is made by the assessing RTO — not by RPL Access. Our role is to help you organise, present and strengthen your evidence portfolio before it reaches an assessor, which can reduce the likelihood of significant gaps being identified. To understand how the broader process works, see our How It Works page, or browse the qualifications we support.
If you're unsure whether your experience is likely to require gap training, our team can review your background and give you an honest, non-guaranteed indication before you commit. Get in touch to discuss your situation.
RPL Access does not assess applications or issue qualifications. All competency decisions, including gap training requirements, are made independently by the Registered Training Organisation delivering the qualification. For further guidance on RTO obligations, visit the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) website.
Find out if your work experience qualifies for RPL. Free check, no obligation.
Start RPL Check