Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

"If we have to promote the development of our country then our mission has to be Skill Development and Skilled India"
Narendra Modi
Hon'ble Prime Minister of India
What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process that values the skills individuals have gained through various types of learning—whether formal, informal, or non-formal. Through RPL, learners can obtain their qualifications without the need to repeat skills or knowledge they have already mastered, making the path to certification more efficient and practical.

Why is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Important?

For individuals, RPL opens up opportunities to pursue higher qualifications, access better job prospects, and achieve career goals without the need for redundant training. By validating prior knowledge and skills, RPL removes barriers to advancement, enabling a more inclusive and efficient pathway to professional development.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) plays a vital role in today’s workforce by bridging skill gaps, enhancing employability, and empowering individuals by validating their existing skills. By acknowledging competencies gained through various types of learning—whether formal, informal, or on-the-job training—RPL enables individuals to gain qualifications without repeating what they already know. This saves time and resources while giving workers a clear pathway to career advancement.

RPL is also essential in supporting the government’s mission to build a skilled workforce and drive economic growth. By aligning workers’ skills with industry standards, RPL contributes to a more qualified workforce ready to meet the demands of the economy. This, in turn, strengthens the labor market, encourages upskilling, and supports national growth initiatives.

 

Eligibility for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

To qualify for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in the AIHBA Training of Trainers (TOT) program, candidates must meet the following criteria:

  • Educational Qualification: Completion of 12th grade (or equivalent).
  • Work Experience: A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in the chosen field (Aesthetics & Skin Care, Hair & Cosmetology, or Makeup Artistry).

This eligibility ensures that candidates have both foundational education and significant practical experience, allowing them to obtain certification through the RPL process without redundant training.

Required Documentation for RPL

To qualify for RPL in the beauty industry, professionals—such as salon owners, hairstylists, makeup artists, or skin aestheticians—are encouraged to provide documentation that demonstrates their experience and expertise. Below is a list of recommended documents.

Please submit at least 5 from this list:

Work Experience Certificate:

Detailed certificates from previous employers outlining job roles, responsibilities, and duration of employment in the beauty industry.

Professional Licenses:

Copies of state or national licenses for hairstyling, cosmetology, or esthetics that validate professional practice.

Training Certificates:

Documentation of training programs, workshops, or continuing education courses attended to enhance skills.

Portfolio of Work:

A collection of before-and-after photos of clients that showcases skills and techniques used in various beauty treatments.

Client Testimonials:

Written testimonials from clients that highlight satisfaction with services and positive experiences.

Business Registration Documents:

Proof of business ownership or registration documents such as business licenses or salon certificates.

Awards and Recognitions:

Certificates, plaques, or awards received in the beauty industry for exceptional work or contributions.

Professional Memberships:

Membership certificates from recognized professional organizations or associations, such as the National Cosmetology Association.

Educational Degrees/Diplomas:

Diplomas or degrees from accredited beauty schools or cosmetology programs that verify formal education.

Workshop Participation Certificates:

Certificates from participation in industry workshops, seminars, or conferences attended.

Published Work:

Articles, blog posts, or tutorials published in beauty industry magazines or websites, demonstrating expertise.

References:

Letters of recommendation or contact information from previous employers, colleagues, or industry professionals.

Personal Statement or CV:

A comprehensive personal statement or CV that outlines career history, skills, and achievements in the beauty industry.

Client Record Keeping:

Documentation of regular client visits, treatments provided, and client feedback, which supports experience and client care.

Salon Operational Documents:

Records of salon operations, including appointment books, service menus, and price lists, demonstrating business management skills.

Why Submit a Combination of Documents?

Providing a variety of documents helps create a well-rounded profile of your experience and skills in the beauty industry. This evidence strengthens your RPL application, making it easier for assessors to recognize your qualifications and validate your expertise.

Bronze Tier Syllabus for AIHBA Programs

Aesthetics & Skin Care

Semester I

  • Introduction to Aesthetics and Skincare 30 Hours

    Basic understanding of skincare and aesthetics.

  • Human Organ Systems, Physiology & Histology of Skin 30 Hours

    Study of skin structure and its functions.

  • Hair Removal 60 Hours

    Techniques and tools for effective hair removal.

  • Health, Safety, and Infection Control 45 Hours

    Safety standards and infection control practices.

  • Employability Skills (Basics) 45 Hours

    Foundational career skills for the beauty industry.

  • On-the-Job Learning (OJT): Hair Removal & Health & Safety 360 Hours

    Hands-on practice in hair removal and health safety.

  • Total 570 Hours

Semester II

  • Skin Analysis & Care 30 Hours

    Understanding different skin types and appropriate care routines.

  • Fundamental and Advanced Facials 90 Hours

    Techniques for basic and advanced facial treatments.

  • Beauty Cosmetics & Chemistry 30 Hours

    Study of cosmetics and their chemical compositions.

  • Aesthetics and Skincare - Customer Skills 45 Hours

    Improving client interaction and customer service.

  • Professional Skills (Team Skills) 45 Hours

    Essential teamwork and communication skills.

  • On-the-Job Learning (OJT): Fundamental and Advanced Facials 360 Hours

    Practical experience in providing facial treatments.

  • Total 600 Hours

Hair & Cosmetology

Semester I

  • Introduction to Hair Cosmetology Industry 30 Hours

    Learn about the hair and beauty industry, its scope, and career opportunities.

  • Human Organ Systems and Skin Basics 30 Hours

    Study the basics of human anatomy relevant to cosmetology, focusing on skin and hair.

  • Fundamentals of Haircutting and Hair Styling 90 Hours

    Gain foundational skills in cutting and styling hair.

  • Health, Safety, and Infection Control 45 Hours

    Understand the importance of hygiene and safety in salon environments.

  • Employability Skills (Basics) 45 Hours

    Develop basic professional skills needed in the workplace.

  • On the Job Learning (Hair Cutting and Hair Styling) 360 Hours

    Practical experience in hair cutting and styling at industry settings.

  • Total 600 Hours

Semester II

  • Scalp Care 60 Hours

    Learn techniques and treatments for maintaining a healthy scalp.

  • Theory of Hair Coloring 30 Hours

    Study the science and principles behind hair coloring.

  • Hair Coloring Applications 60 Hours

    Apply hair coloring techniques in practical settings.

  • Basics of Photography 45 Hours

    Understand how to capture professional images of hairstyling work.

  • Professional Skills (Team Skills) 45 Hours

    Enhance teamwork and communication abilities.

  • On the Job Learning (Hair Coloring) 360 Hours
  • Total 600 Hours

Makeup Artistry

Semester I

  • Introduction to Makeup Artistry 30 Hours

    Learn the basics of makeup and its applications.

  • Human Face - Structure & Function 30 Hours

    Study the anatomy of the human face and how it affects makeup application.

  • Basic Make-up 90 Hours

    Practice fundamental makeup techniques.

  • Health, Safety, and Infection Control 45 Hours

    Understand hygiene practices in the makeup industry.

  • Employability Skills (Basics) 45 Hours

    Develop basic professional skills needed in the workplace.

  • On the Job Learning (Basic Makeup) 360 Hours

    Hands-on training in basic makeup techniques in a professional environment.

  • Total 600 Hours

Semester II

  • Makeup for Fashion and Media 60 Hours

    Learn makeup techniques specific to fashion shows and media.

  • Fundamentals of Hair Styling 60 Hours

    Practice basic hairstyling skills.

  • Bridal Makeup and Special Events 60 Hours

    Learn makeup styles for weddings and other important events.

  • Basics of Photography 45 Hours

    Understand how to take quality photos of makeup work.

  • Professional Skills (Team Skills) 45 Hours

    Enhance teamwork and communication abilities.

  • On the Job Learning (Advanced Makeup and Basic Hairstyling) 360 Hours

    Apply advanced makeup and hairstyling skills in real-world settings.

  • Total 630 Hours

Silver Tier Syllabus for AIHBA Programs

Aesthetics & Skin Care

Semester III

  • Electricity & Electrotherapy 60 Hours

    Use of electrical devices in skincare treatments.

  • Essentials of Nail Care 60 Hours

    Basic manicure and pedicure techniques.

  • Skin Disease & Disorder (Case Study) 30 Hours

    Identifying and treating common skin issues.

  • Introduction to Retail Business 45 Hours

    Basics of retail operations within the beauty industry.

  • Professional Skills (Career Skills) 45 Hours

    Advanced career skills to succeed in the industry.

  • On-the-Job Learning (OJT): Electrotherapy and Nail Care 360 Hours

    Practical application of electrotherapy and nail care.

  • Total 600 Hours

Semester IV

  • Basic Make-up 60 Hours

    Core makeup application techniques.

  • Bridal Makeup & Special Events 60 Hours

    Specializing in makeup for weddings and events.

  • Advanced Makeup for Fashion and Media 60 Hours

    Techniques for fashion and media makeup.

  • Introduction to Wellness Industry 30 Hours

    Overview of the wellness sector and opportunities.

  • Communication Skills (English) 120 Hours

    Enhancing communication skills for professional settings.

  • On-the-Job Learning (OJT): Basic and Advanced Makeup 360 Hours

    Hands-on practice in bridal and advanced makeup.

  • Total 690 Hours

Hair & Cosmetology

Semester III

  • Beauty and Hair Cosmetics 45 Hours

    Explore various hair and beauty products and their applications.

  • Advanced Curling and Updos 60 Hours

    Learn advanced techniques for curling hair and creating updo hairstyles.

  • Hair Cutting Combinations and Personalization 60 Hours

    Customize haircuts to suit individual client needs.

  • Electricity 45 Hours

    Understand the basics of electricity relevant to salon equipment.

  • Professional Skills (Career Skills) 45 Hours

    Develop skills for career advancement in the beauty industry.

  • On the Job Learning (Advanced Hair Cutting, Culing and Updos) 360 Hours

    Hands-on experience with advanced hair cutting, curling, and updos.

  • Total 615 Hours

Semester IV

  • Long Hair Runway Hairstyling 60 Hours

    Create elaborate hairstyles suitable for fashion shows and events.

  • Chemical Texturizing - Smoothening 60 Hours

    Learn chemical processes for hair smoothening treatments.

  • Advanced Hair Coloring 60 Hours

    Master complex hair coloring techniques.

  • Digital Marketing and Social Media 45 Hours

    Use online platforms to promote beauty services.

  • Communication Skills (English) 120 Hours
  • On the Job Learning (Advanced Hair styling, Hair Colouring and Hair Smoothening) 360 Hours

    Practical experience in advanced hairstyling and treatments.

  • Total 705 Hours

Makeup Artistry

Semester III

  • Essentials of Nail Design 90 Hours

    Learn basic techniques for nail design and care.

  • Cosmetics of Makeup 30 Hours

    Study different types of makeup products and their uses.

  • Hair Removal 60 Hours

    Practice techniques for safe and effective hair removal.

  • Makeup Techniques for Diverse Clients 60 Hours

    Learn how to apply makeup for different skin tones and facial features.

  • Business Communication 120 Hours

    Develop professional communication skills for the beauty industry.

  • On the Job Learning (Advanced Makeup, Nail Care, and Design, Hair Removal) 360 Hours

    Practice advanced makeup, nail care, and hair removal in a professional setting.

  • Total 720 Hours

Semester IV

  • Airbrush Makeup 60 Hours

    Learn how to apply makeup using an airbrush machine.

  • World of Lashes & Eyebrows 60 Hours

    Study techniques for enhancing eyelashes and eyebrows.

  • Fundamentals of Prosthetic & Special Effects Makeup 60 Hours

    Learn how to create special effects makeup for film and theater.

  • Basics of Accounting 60 Hours

    Understand basic financial management for running a business.

  • Professional Skills (Career Skills) 45 Hours

    Learn important skills for advancing your career.

  • On the Job Learning (Advanced Makeup, Lashes, and Eyebrows) 360 Hours

    Gain experience in advanced makeup applications and lash/brow techniques.

  • Total 645 Hours