The field of recognition of prior learning (RPL) in Quebec continues to develop with the incorporation of distinct terminology and policies based on the reality of contemporary Quebec society. In an analysis of the thematic nature of the RPL literature, it became evident that certain recommendations and conclusions from past research continued to repeat and remain unresolved challenges in the field of practice. At the same time, a new stream of research related to RPL and immigrant settlement and integration is beginning to be more prominent. This article is written with the aspiration that the conclusions from the consolidated RPL research will be of benefit to the emerging field of RPL research. As well, this review identifies gaps in the current research and suggests areas for further study. The inherent link between the practice and research of RPL and the field of adult education is that both areas focus on the adult learner. In this respect, this article contributes to the field of scholarly endeavours of RPL, which is based on the philosophical tenets of andragogy.