Credit for prior study
Credit is the recognition of previous study or learning that can be counted towards a qualification. This can reduce the number of units required to complete a course of study.
If you have completed any previous study, work experience or other learning, you can be assessed for credit towards a course at Monash.
You can apply for a credit assessment at various stages in your journey at Monash. For example, when you’re:
- applying to study at Monash
- commencing or currently studying
- transferring between courses.
How to apply for credit
When making an application to study at Monash, you can indicate that you want to be considered for credit. At this stage in the process, we’ll assess only your previous studies for credit.
- Download, print and complete the Credit Application form and upload in the online portal.
- you’ll need to upload supporting documents as evidence of your prior studies (e.g. a handbook or syllabus). Always be on the lookout for extra document requests once you've submitted your application.
Documentation to include
Applications for credit from all studies not completed at Monash University require an original or certified copy of your academic results and unit syllabus (units synopsis, assessment, number of hours, textbooks used) for the year the unit was studied. If photocopies are provided, they need to be certified by a person authorised to witness a statutory declaration. Where this information is in a language other than English, you must provide a translation by an accredited translator.
Applications for credit for informal or non-formal learning must provide relevant evidence, as determined by the faculty. This may include an interview and/or challenge tests or assessments, and/or a folio of creative work to confirm that the applicant has achieved the requisite learning outcomes.
Applications for credit for previous study at Monash University or Monash College will not be required to provide extra documentation if this information is available from the student management system and handbooks.
University policy and procedures
Monash University has a policy on credit (including recognition of prior learning) and procedures for credit transfer. Make sure you also check if your faculty or school has specific policies on credit transfer and RPL.
Processing times
- during peak admission and enrolment times;
- for applications where there are no existing precedents; and
- for applications for non-formal and informal learning.
- Documents received are insufficient to proceed with credit assessment.
Types of credit
Specified credit
Specified credit is granted towards core or particular components in a qualification, identified by the Monash unit code.
Unspecified credit
Unspecified credit is granted towards components in a qualification where the Monash unit code is not specified. Credit is given for the credit point value and level of a Monash unit.
Block credit
Granted towards whole stages or components of a qualification, block credit doesn't involve individual student assessment. It's usually arranged through a credit transfer or articulation agreement with another education provider.
Limits on credit
There are limits on the maximum amount of credit we can grant you for a Monash course.
Where a Monash course is:
- 96 credit points or less - you must complete at least half of these credit points at Monash
- greater than 96 credit points - you must complete a minimum of 48 of these credit points at Monash
- a double degree - you must complete at least 48 credit points towards each component.
We'll assess your credit application, taking into account the level of your qualifications and the relevance of your previous study to the Monash course.
You can contact Admissions Office if you think you did not receive enough credit for your prior studies or experience.
Maximum credit available
Course length | Credit points | Maximum credit |
---|---|---|
1 semester | 24 credit points | 6 credit points |
1 year | 48 credit points | 12 credit points |
1.5 years | 72 credit points | 36 credit points |
2 years | 96 credit points | 48 credit points |
3 years | 144 credit points | 96 credit points |
4 years | 192 credit points | 144 credit points |