PIC Course Credits Policy
Paramount International College
Please find more information below:
Course credit and RPL
Course credit
Course credit recognises formal studies previously completed with another registered or authorised education provider. PIC checks whether the completed unit directly matches or is equivalent to a unit in the student's current course.
Recognition of Prior Learning
RPL may recognise skills and knowledge gained through previous learning or experience. RPL is managed separately under PIC's Training and Assessment Policy and Procedure.
Who may apply?
All students are offered the opportunity to apply for credit for relevant previous studies. Applications should normally be made during enrolment so approved credit can be considered in the student's study plan, fees and enrolment documents.
PIC will not require a student to repeat a unit or module already assessed as competent, unless a licensing condition or regulatory requirement requires repetition.
Documents required
- A completed Credit Application Form
- Certified copies of relevant transcripts or AQF certification documents
- Documents showing the institution, student's full name, unit codes, unit titles and results
- Additional course or unit information if PIC needs to compare learning outcomes
PIC authenticates supporting evidence, including contacting the issuing organisation when required. An application without certified documents may be returned unless a PIC staff member views the originals and certifies the copies.
How the application is assessed
Direct match
Credit may be granted when the previously completed unit has the same code and title as a unit in the student's current PIC course.
Equivalent unit
Credit may also be granted when the relevant Training Package identifies the completed unit as equivalent to the current unit.
Similar previous study
Where there is no direct match, PIC compares the content and outcomes of the previous study with the unit in the student's current course.
Not relevant or equivalent
Credit is not granted where the previous unit is unrelated to the current course or does not demonstrate equivalent outcomes.
Course credit process
- Apply: The student completes the Credit Application Form and provides certified supporting documents.
- Authenticate: PIC checks that the documents are valid and contain the required information.
- Compare: PIC reviews whether each completed unit directly matches, is formally equivalent to, or has equivalent outcomes to a current course unit.
- Decide: PIC records the reason for granting or declining the requested credit.
- Notify: The student receives the outcome in writing and accepts any credit awarded.
- Record: PIC keeps the application, supporting evidence and assessment records in the student's file.
Effect on course fees and duration
- If credit is approved before enrolment, it is included in the International Student Letter of Offer and Agreement.
- Where three or more credits reduce the training and assessment required, PIC reviews the course cost and advises the student of any reduced fees.
- For an international student, if approved credit or RPL changes the course duration at the commencement of study, PIC records the change in PRISMS and issues a new Confirmation of Enrolment where required.
Responsibilities
Student and Administration Team
- Complete or assist with the application
- Provide and check certified documents
- Ensure the application is properly recorded
Academic staff and Trainer/Assessor
- Review authenticity and relevance
- Compare units and learning outcomes
- Document the decision and notify the student
- Keep the assessment evidence and records