WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PLT AND GDLP?

If you’re researching Practical Legal Training (PLT), you might have seen the term Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice (GDLP) used as well. So what’s the difference, and do you need to choose between them? 

Good news: they’re not two different programs. At the College of Law, PLT is the training. GDLP is the qualification you receive at the end. 

Let’s break it down. 

PLT = The training 

Practical Legal Training (PLT) is the final step in your journey to becoming a lawyer. It bridges the gap between law school and legal practice by helping you build the real-world skills required for admission. 

At the College of Law, PLT includes:

• Coursework (online modules + workshops)
• Work experience (either 75 days or a shorter placement with extra coursework)

It’s designed to meet the admission requirements in every Australian state and territory. 

GDLP = The qualification 

Once you finish your PLT at the College of Law, you’re awarded a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice (GDLP), a nationally recognised postgraduate qualification. 

This is the formal document you’ll submit to your local legal admissions board as part of your application for admission. 

Why do people use both terms? 

Think of PLT as the process, and GDLP as the outcome. 

You might hear both terms used interchangeably, but they’re talking about the same pathway. When you enrol in PLT at the College of Law, you’re enrolling in a program that leads to the GDLP. No separate application needed.  

Got questions? Let’s clear a few things up. 

Do I need a GDLP to become a lawyer in Australia? 
Not always, but it’s the most common path. 

To be admitted, you’ll need to complete practical legal training. In most cases, this means completing a PLT course and receiving a GDLP. This is the standard and most widely recognised path to admission. 

Is PLT the same as a GDLP? 
Not quite. PLT is the training program. GDLP is the qualification you receive once you finish. They go hand in hand. 
 
Do I need to apply separately for PLT and GDLP? 
No. Once you enrol in PLT at the College of Law, you’re automatically enrolled in the full program that leads to the GDLP. 

Is the GDLP recognised across Australia? 
Yes. The College of Law’s GDLP is a nationally recognised qualification, accepted by all legal admissions boards. 

Is PLT a master’s degree? 
No. The GDLP is a postgraduate qualification, but it’s not a master’s. PLT is designed to prepare you for legal practice, not for academic research. 

PLT vs GDLP at a Glance 

 
What this all means for you 

There’s no need to choose between PLT and a GDLP; they go hand in hand. When you complete PLT, you’re awarded a GDLP. Same pathway, same outcome, just two different ways of describing it. 

If you’re ready to start or just want to learn more about what’s involved, we’re here to help you take the next step.