Recognition of Prior Learning

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Welcome to Recognition of Prior Learning at Maynooth University. The purpose of this page is to help you understand RPL and how it can help you begin or continue your studies with us.

What is RPL?

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is when formal recognition is given for relevant learning already obtained prior to starting on a programme or module. That learning may have been attained in a formal, non-formal and informal experience or context.

Formal Learning refers to learning delivered by education and training providers for which formal certification has been awarded.
Non-Formal Learning is usually acquired through planned activities (such as short courses, workshops or seminars) but does not usually result in a formal award.
Informal Learning takes place through life and work experience and is usually referred to as experiential learning. It generally refers to learning that is unintentional or unplanned where the learner will often be unaware of how a particular experience is contributing to their knowledge and/or skills.

Maynooth University can assess your previous learning for two main purposes;

Programme Admissions may be allowed through the recognition of prior formal, informal and/or experiential learning. Successful applicants are granted access or, in some cases, advanced access to their chosen programme. Such admissions are processed via the University’s Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) policy.
Module Exemptions/Credits may be granted based on prior formal learning at Maynooth University or another institution. Applications for exemptions/credits are processed via the Exemption Request GSF13 Form.

Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) Policy

Through our Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) policy, Maynooth University acknowledges the value of life experiences and labour market participation as a contributor to life-long education.

Our RPEL policy facilitates a review of the professional skills and relevant life experience of the applicant, particularly those without significant academic qualifications.

While there are clearly defined academic entry requirements for university programmes, Maynooth University has developed mechanisms to allow entry to applicants who do not meet the standard requirements, but who have equivalent experiential learning achievements which appropriately prepare them for their chosen programme.

Each application requires individual review and will take into consideration evidence of current knowledge, understanding and skills and how such prior learning might appropriately prepare you for your programme.

There are two admissions processes in use for those who do not meet the standard minimum university entry requirements for a programme:

Recognition of prior experiential learning (RPEL) is used where the applicant’s professional experience is being used as the primary basis for programme admission.
Non-standard applications considers cases where the applicant’s academic qualifications should be considered as the primary basis for admission. This may be supplemented by relevant professional experience.

Completing your RPEL/Non-Standard Entry application to Maynooth University

We encourage all applicants who wish to submit an RPEL application to firstly discuss your prior learning with the course coordinator for the programme to which you wish to apply. Any other queries can be directed to our Recognition of Prior Learning office at rpl@mu.ie.
Once the course coordinator has indicated that your prior learning may be suitable for consideration for RPL, you should download and complete the GSF12 Non-Standard Entry / Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning Request Form .
Depending on your route of admission, the next steps in the application process may vary. Please refer carefully to the guidelines below.
- For Postgraduate Students applying via PAC
  Begin your application on the PAC.ie website. As part of the normal PAC application process, you will need to indicate via a tick box that you are interested in submitting an RPEL application. Upload the completed RPEL form to PAC.ie as part of your online application. Receipt of your application will be acknowledged via the PAC.ie system. Non-standard applicants, should document the academic courses which you have successfully completed prior to making your application. If you also have relevant experiential learning, please ensure this is also noted on your application form.
- For Springboard+ / Human Capital Initiative Pillar One Applicants
  Please complete and submit the RPEL form with your application on the Springboard Courses website. It should not come through the Postgraduate Applications Centre. Your application should be submitted well in advance of the commencement and registration of the programme. For most programmes, registration is in August and September each year. You do not need to include a PAC Number on your form. Non-standard applicants, should document the academic courses which you have successfully completed prior to making your application. If you also have relevant experiential learning, please ensure this is also noted on your application form.

Please note that your RPEL application will not be formally considered until it is received using the correct application form.

Module Exemptions/Credits

A fundamental principle in Recognition of Prior Learning is that a student should not be asked to relearn something they have previously learned. There will be some exceptions to this premise but in some cases, it may be reasonable for a student to apply for an exemption to a module or number of modules.

All applications for module exemption should be submitted to the Recognition of Prior Learning Office at rpl@mu.ie using the Exemption Request GSF13 Form.

Exemption applications should be made prior to the commencement of the academic year within which the application is being made.

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Recognition of Prior Learning

What is RPL?

Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) Policy

Completing your RPEL/Non-Standard Entry application to Maynooth University

Module Exemptions/Credits