credit transfer for phd

Top 7 Doctoral Programs That Accept Transfer Credits

by Canice Silas

The duration of a doctorate is about four to six years and some factors influence the completion of a PhD within this time. Although we are not here to look at these factors as we have treated them in our previous post – check the link above. Many PhD students who move from one college to another to complete their doctoral programs do not know if their new colleges accept transfer credits.

Most doctoral students are shocked to find out that very few of the course credits they took in their previous program will transfer to the new program. This can force students to complete large amounts of repetitive coursework, costing them valuable time and money. Hence increasing the time to complete their doctorate studies.

What is a Transfer Credit?

Transfer credits are credits that students are able to take with them when they leave one academic institution and go to another. This means that they can transfer and use the credits that they earned by taking certain courses in their previous institutions towards their new institution. The credit may facilitate entry into a program at another educational institution or satisfy the requirement of a certificate, diploma, advanced diploma or degree.

There are many times at new colleges when students learn that they will have to take a class over because the course does not transfer with them, by using the credits this no longer becomes an issue. A student can transfer credits from a two-year community college or another accredited four-year college to a four-year college or university. It is important to understand that the transferability of credit varies by degree and by institution. Oftentimes, the flexibility of transferring credits for a bachelor’s degree is greater than for a graduate degree.

Types of Credit Transferred at Graduate Schools

Graduate programs often accept more credits at the graduate level compared to undergraduate programs. The transfer policy varies among schools and programs, with some accepting all coursework while others accepting none. However, for programs that accept transfer credits at graduate level, only credits from a previous doctoral degree, master’s degree or special licenses and certifications are accepted.

Previous Doctoral Credit

For transfer credit earned in previous doctoral studies, students must have completed relevant coursework at the doctoral level. Credit for a master’s degree alone is not sufficient. The student’s program will evaluate their prior coursework on a case-by-case basis, considering course descriptions and syllabi. Those who already started a PhD in another college but could not finish may be allowed to transfer credits to another college.

Master’s-Level Credits

The work and coursework of an applied master’s often correlates with the work of a doctoral degree. Many students who enter a doctoral program have already earned a master’s degree either in a related field or a field they are currently leaving, hence, the master’s level credits can be accepted to make up for elective requirements.

Special Licenses and Certifications

Examples of special licensing or certification for the Ed.D. program would include an associate license, a National Board Certification, a superintendent license, or a school services provider license. Each would allow for up to 12 or 15 transfer credits.

Why Transfer Credit Matters for Your PhD

If a prospective student has previously completed graduate coursework, they often wish to transfer the credit into their future doctorate program. There are a variety of reasons why; perhaps numerous classes taken directly complement the desired doctoral degree, or a time conflict prevented the completion of a certain program, or maybe there were moves to different locations that interrupted the academic course.

Transferring credits can be frustrating if they are considered lower level. However, for doctoral programs, transferring credits can save time and money. PhD students who can transfer more credits will be able to complete their studies in a shorter duration and incur lower financial costs. Here are some advantages of looking for doctoral programs that accept transfer credits.

To Accelerate Your Doctoral Journey

With transfer credits from previous graduate coursework, you can significantly reduce the duration of your PhD program by many months or even semesters. This results in both accelerated completion of your doctorate studies and decreased tuition expenses, enabling you to achieve your academic objectives more quickly and with less financial strain.

Beyond Time Savings

Transfer credits save students time in completing their degrees, but their benefits extend beyond that. This is especially true at the doctoral level, where professionals with full-time work and family commitments may find it overwhelming to add rigorous study. For such individuals, credit transfer options are enticing as they alleviate the burden of full-time study. This also helps prevent dropouts.

How To Strategize Your Transfer Credit Success

The process of transferring credits is most successful if you plan. Choose a graduate school that accepts a wide variety of credits to avoid the problem of limited selection. Investigate the accreditation of the credits received and prioritize schools with higher prestige. Transfer credits can save time, allowing for degree completion in a shorter timeframe. Look for schools with maximum time limits for degree completion to ensure eligibility for transfer credits.

Know Your Options

Transfer credits can vary significantly across different doctoral programs. Programs that prioritize research and emphasize original research may have stricter credit acceptance policies. However, professional practice programs, which focus on honing practical skills, may be more willing to accept relevant coursework from your previous graduate studies. It’s important to grasp the different program variations to find the best match for your transferable credits and career goals.

Course Evaluation Process

The evaluation of past coursework to determine if credit can be granted is the most subjective and complicated part of the transfer credit process. The same course from two institutions may vary greatly in content and depth, so it is important to know how courses are evaluated before initiating the credit transfer process.

Build Your Case for Transfer

Collect detailed information about each course you want to transfer, including course descriptions, syllabi, papers, and textbooks. The more information you compile, the better you can identify equivalent courses at your new program and strengthen your case for transfer. Showing that you have taken courses equivalent to specific courses in your new program will make your case stronger.

Once you have these plans in place, you are ready to transfer credits to a PhD program.

Top 7 Doctoral Programs with Transfer Credit Options

Here are some universities that have doctoral programs known for facilitating transfer credits into their curriculum. For each of the seven universities, we have collected the exact amount of coursework required to complete the degree and the amount of transfer credit units allowed so that the total course requirement would be less than the standard 90 units.

Northcentral University

Northcentral University (NCU) is a top online university built around the needs of students. They offer one-on-one services to provide a more personalized education and experience. Here you can earn your degree at your own pace. NCU offers several doctoral programs with flexibility for transferring credits from a regionally accredited institution.

Doctoral programs at NCU are about 60 credit hours and a maximum of 15 credits can be transferred. When considering transferring credit, the student should be aware that only grades of “B” or better are accepted. The student will also need to provide a course syllabus or catalog from the time of course completion. This assures the content is similar to the Northcentral course that it will be substituted for.

Purdue Global University

The PhD program at Purdue Global University requires an additional 60 credit hours beyond a master’s degree. It allows a maximum of 30 credits (50% of the master’s degree courses) to be transferred. Students have a time limit of six years to complete the degree. The program is open to nurses with a baccalaureate degree or higher. Specialities offered include Nursing Education, Nursing Administration, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Adult Nurse Practitioner.

Students can choose to study full-time or part-time and online classes are available where students can study from the comfort of their own home or office. The program also accepts visiting students and transfer credits from other universities. Flexibility is a key aspect of the program, allowing students to work at their own pace.

Walden University

Walden University offers several doctoral programs that provide a progressive learning experience with transfer of credit options towards the highest degree. They aim to make the transition as smooth as possible and to maximize transfer of credit, so students do not have to repeat coursework and delay the start of work on their degree.

You can transfer doctoral credit from a regionally or recognized program into the following programs: PhD in Applied Management and Decision Sciences, PhD in Public Policy and Administration, and PhD in Health Services, as these programs do not have residency requirements. These credits must be deemed relevant to your degree program by your Academic Advising Team or your Program Director. Credits will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and must have been earned within the past ten years.

The amount of transfer credits differs depending on the degree. A student enrolling in the MS in Accounting degree may transfer a maximum of 9 credits. A student pursuing an MS in Human Resources Management can transfer up to 15 credits, while a DBA student may be qualified to transfer 21 credits.

Liberty University

Liberty University is one of the fastest-growing institutions in the nation. It is evangelical Christian in orientation and holds to its mission that the university is characterized by a Christian environment. Liberty offers a variety of doctoral degrees and has a developed policy for the transfer of credit into these programs.

Liberty’s process for transfer of credit into a doctoral program is at the discretion of the dean of the program to which the student seeks entry. Transfer of credit into a doctoral program is not to exceed half of the degree program. The transferred credit must have been earned at an institution of higher education fully accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council of Higher Education Accreditation during the time of the student’s enrollment.

The student must have earned a grade of ‘B’ or above for the corresponding course to be considered for transfer of credit. All credit must be evaluated by the Office of Admissions for applicability to the student’s program. After acceptance of the student into a program, all transfer of credit must be completed within the first year of enrollment and only graduate-level credit within that 5-year time frame will be considered.

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers 5 distinct doctoral programs. Unlike many other institutions, Grand Canyon University does accept transfer credit from regionally accredited colleges and universities. This is a big step for Grand Canyon and its students, as transfer credits greatly reduce the cost of obtaining a degree. Although Grand Canyon University prefers the student to have a master’s degree, it is possible to be admitted with a bachelor’s degree.

Grand Canyon University has a very structured transfer credit policy. A maximum of 12 credits can be transferred into your program depending on a review and approval from the university. All transfer credits must meet the time constraints of the 7-year rule. Transfer credits cannot include specific research or dissertation courses, and they also must have been completed at a regionally accredited institution of higher education. These transfer credits must also be equivalent to a matching course in the GCU curriculum and have a grade of “B” or better.

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is currently offering six doctoral programs that accept a maximum of 12 transfer credits. Those programs are:

EdD in Educational Leadership with 3 concentrations
EdD in Curriculum, Teaching and Learning
EdD in Psychology
EdD in Learning and Leading
EdD in Literacy
PhD in Integrative and Public Health

Only a maximum of 12 credits can be transferred into these programs as long as the courses were taken within the past five years and a grade of B was achieved. This policy is a bit firmer than the other universities considering transfer students should check into this in more detail if they want to maximize their previous coursework.

Franklin University

Completing your applied doctorate at Franklin typically takes around three years, which includes the dissertation. You can complete your degree more efficiently and reduce costs by transferring up to 24 credit hours you’ve already earned. Close to 50% of the university’s doctoral students benefit from the extensive transfer credit policy. The streamlined transfer process ensures that you receive credit for your existing knowledge without any hassle.

Factors To Consider Before Transfer Credit Application

When deciding to transfer, it is essential to start planning in the semester before transfer. Start by identifying which programs interest you and are a good match for your educational goals. Consider the following general factors when researching potential transfer schools.

Financial Aid and Transfer Credit

Doctoral students are concerned about funding and compensation, particularly if they are transferring from another institution. Transfer status and the timing of guaranteed funding should be inquired about. Fellowships and scholarships are another potential funding source.

Faculty Mentorship

One factor to take into serious consideration before applying to transfer to a doctoral program is the availability of a faculty mentor within the new department. Finding a mentor within the new department is crucial to gaining inside information on departmental politics and resources as well as locating research and teaching opportunities. A mentor can greatly aid the student in transitioning to the new department and solidifying the decision to transfer.

Research Opportunities

When choosing a doctoral program, the research opportunities available are a crucial factor for students. Research experience impacts employment post-graduation and the program’s culture. It is important to know what is expected and available in terms of research. Some students prefer their own projects, while others want to work with faculty. Knowing these opportunities can prevent distraction from extra employment.

Discover more from Doctorate Guru

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Type your email…

Canice Silas

Canice U. Silas is a dedicated scholar who has channeled the last 20 years of his life to various forms of scholastic pursuits. He holds a BSC in Industrial Chemistry and a master's degree in Inorganic Chemistry from the prestigious Imo State University, Owerri. Mr Silas is set to complete his PhD in Inorganic Chemistry within the next six months. Passionate about the classroom from his elementary school days, Mr Silas grabbed the first opportunity that came his way at the Imo State University where he worked as A. A and currently K. O. Mbadiwe University, as a lecturer and as well has been into educational consulting for thousands of students across various tertiary institutions in the world.

My brother suggested I might like this website He was totally right This post actually made my day You cannt imagine just how much time I had spent for this information Thanks

10 Best Online PhD Programs In Nursing for Working Professionals

9 January 2024
9 minute read

Easiest PhD Programs to Get Into

19 May 2024
5 minute read

10 Most Popular PhD Subjects to Study in the USA

19 September 2024

Top 10 Executive Doctorate Degree Programs of 2024

7 March 2024
7 minute read

Top 10 Universities Offering Free Honorary Doctorate Degrees Online

28 July 2024

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Office of Academic Records and Registrar

Resources and information for current USC students

USC’s Student Academic Record System (STARS)

STARS Report

The Student Academic Record System report (STARS) reflects a student’s academic progress toward completion of their degree(s) for their declared major(s).

Answers to commonly asked questions about STARS reports

Information on requesting a STARS report

Features of the STARS Interactive Audit

Policies and resources for transferring credit to USC

Transfer Credit Services

USC’s Articulation Agreements with community colleges

Articulation histories with local four-year colleges

Non-USC courses that will satisfy USC requirements

Policies on AP, IB and A-level examination credit

Requesting a change in the evaluation of a transfer course

Information on summer courses taken outside of USC

Answers to commonly asked questions about transfer credit for spring admits

Administrative services regarding student degrees

Degree Progress

Policies on transfer credit awarded for graduate coursework

Verifying a bachelor’s-level degree for grad students

Names of graduating students by program of study

Staff directory for the Degree Progress department

Answers to commonly asked questions about degree progress

Assistance and resources for student veterans

Veterans Certification

Programs that provide veterans education benefits

Filing for veterans education benefits at USC

How benefits are coordinated with your financial aid

Information on the VA’s Yellow Ribbon Program

Work-Study benefits and tutorial assistance for veterans

Procedures for students called to immediate active duty

Additional useful resources for student veterans

Staff directory for the Veterans Certification Office

Answers to commonly asked questions for veterans

Information about the grading process at USC

Policies and recommendations for determining student grades

Answers to commonly asked questions about grading concerns

Information on taking a Leave of Absence from USC

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

FERPA rights and procedures as they apply to parents

FERPA rights and procedures as they apply to students

Definitions of various words as they relate to FERPA policies

Answers to commonly asked questions about FERPA

Necessary forms for academic or registration purposes

Records and Transcripts

Records services for current and former USC students

Access transcript information and ordering instructions

Transcripts

Instructions for ordering PDF transcripts

Instructions for ordering paper transcripts

Answers to commonly asked questions about transcripts

Requests for diplomas and CeDiploma validation

Request for diplomas and CeDiploma validation

Ordering a replacement for a lost or damaged diploma

Answers to commonly asked questions about diplomas

Learn about the benefits of a Certified Electronic Diploma

Use the CeDiD to authenticate a CeDiploma from USC

Answers to commonly asked questions about CeDiplomas

Requests for verification of student academic records

Verification

Instructions for ordering paper verifications

Instructions for ordering verifications as a student’s designated third party

Instructions for ordering electronic verifications online

Answers to commonly asked questions about degree verification

Registration and Counseling

Course registration and academic counseling services for students

Information and instructions for course registration

Registration Services

Registration deadlines in the Schedule of Classes

Assistance with registration, student accounts and more

Instructions for enrolling in courses at USC

A Visual Guide to USC’s Class Scheduling System

Information and FAQs regarding the optional insurance

Taking courses at USC without formal admission

Answers to commonly asked questions about registration

Services for students on probation or seeking readmission

Academic Review and Retention Office

What the Academic Review and Retention Office does

Information for students with GPAs lower than 2.0

Policies regarding disqualification and/or readmission

Meet with an Academic Review Counselor online

Inquires about registration errors or policy exceptions

Change of Schedule and Permit to Register forms

Faculty and Staff

Resources and information for USC Faculty and Staff

Tools and resources for classroom scheduling

Classroom Scheduling

Changing a class to a new time, day, or room

Policies on required in- and out-of-class contact per unit

General information on room scheduling for final exams

List of all rooms in which classes may be scheduled

Contact information for class scheduling coordinators

Color-coded chart outlining classroom scheduling timeframes

Written table outlining classroom scheduling timeframes

Use the Room Finder app to peruse classrooms on campus

Creating and maintaining a Schedule of Classes

Downloadable spreadsheet to assist with section planning

Answers to commonly asked questions about classroom scheduling

Policies and procedures for curriculum management

Breakdown of the curriculum review process

Deadlines for inclusion in the USC Catalogue

Links to various resources for curricula, syllabi, and more

Manage curriculum proposals, revisions, approvals and more

Review and approval for off-campus courses and programs

University Committee on Curriculum (UCOC) meetings

Submitting curriculum changes for the USC Catalogue

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) policies and procedures

Links to various policies and instructions for advisors

Information on the Online Academic Student Information System

Learn about OASIS, including helpful login instructions

Online login page for student access

Online login page for advisor access

Guest login link and instructions for setting up Guest access

Academic Calendar
Student Forms
Petition Services
Registration and Academic Forms
Advisor Resources
OASIS General Information
OASIS for Students
OASIS for Advisors
OASIS for Guests

Up to Main Menu

Frequently Asked Questions
How to Request a STARS Report
STARS Interactive Audit
Transfer Planning Guide
Exam Credit
Petition Procedures
Summer Courses for USC Students
Spring Admits FAQ
Graduate Transfer Credit
Domestic and International Degree Verification
USC Commencement Program
Staff Directory
Covered Programs
How to File
Financial Aid and Veterans Benefits
Yellow Ribbon
Other Available Educational Assistance
Call to Active Duty
Helpful Links
Grading and Correction of Grades
Leave of Absence
FERPA For Parents
FERPA for Students
FERPA Definitions
Order Official PDF Transcripts
Order Official Paper Transcripts
Request for Reissue of Diploma
Certified Electronic Credential Overview
Certified Electronic Credential Validation
CeCredential FAQ
Order Paper Verifications
Third-Party Verification Requests
Order Electronic Verifications
One Stop Center
Registration Procedures
Web Registration
USC Tuition Refund Insurance Program
Limited Status Enrollment
Our Philosophy
Probation System and Mandatory Advisement
Disqualification and Readmission
Schedule an Appointment
Classroom Changes
Contact Hours
Final Examinations Rooms
Classroom Scheduling Room List
Classroom Scheduling Coordinators
Classroom Scheduling Modules
Classroom Scheduling Modules Table
Classroom Photos
Section Scheduling at USC
Hourly Summary Sheet
Review Process
Submission Timeline
Curriculum Management System
Off-Campus Studies
UCOC Minutes
Submitting Updates

USC Registrar › Students › Degree Progress › Graduate Transfer Credit

Coursework Taken at an Institution Based Inside the U.S.

Graduate coursework taken at another institution within the United States before matriculation at USC can be made available for transfer credit at USC upon request. Students should contact us via our askUSC portal and request a Graduate Transfer Credit Report (GTCR). Official transcripts are required to complete this evaluation.

Degree Progress will include transfer coursework in the student record if the work meets the following criteria:

Transfer institution is regionally accredited in the U.S. to grant graduate degrees.
Courses are graded at least a 3.0 (B) on a 4.0 grading scale.
Courses are graduate level at the transfer institution and constitute a fair and reasonable equivalent to current USC coursework at the graduate level.
Courses logically fit into the program for the degree.

Once the transfer work is available on the student record, the academic department will determine whether or not course and unit credit will be used towards the degree.

Coursework Taken at an Institution Based Outside the U.S.

To transfer international graduate course work, student will need to have their courses evaluated by IERF (International Education Research Foundation). The website is: https://ierf.org/uni-evaluation/usc-gradtransfer/ . Please make sure the student uses this website to request this type of evaluation. It differs from the prior degree verification website. Once the evaluation is completed, it will be sent to the Graduate Admissions Office to be loaded onto the student’s record.

Military Education

Academic credit will be awarded for graduate level coursework taken at a regionally accredited U.S. military institute or college upon receipt of official transcripts.

The university will also evaluate coursework and/or experience completed through the armed services and may award credit for such courses if they meet the following criteria:

Students must provide an official Joint Services (JST) transcript to Degree Progress.
Coursework must be evaluated by ACE as graduate credit.
Students must submit an articulation petition for each course in which credit is requested. Each petition must include a statement of faculty support.

USC will not grant credit for the following:

DD-214 or DD-295
Coursework not offered in an area of study taught at USC
Coursework and/or experience not evaluated by ACE
DSST and CLEP exam scores
Other Learning Experiences (OLE’s)

Need More Information?

Frequently asked questions

Commonly searched terms

© 2024 The University of Southern California
Privacy Notice
Notice of Non-Discrimination
Digital Accessibility
Smoke-Free Policy

Doctorate programs that accept transfer credits

Earning your applied doctorate at Franklin takes about three years -- including your dissertation. Finish even faster (and save money) when you transfer up to 33 previously earned credit hours. Nearly half of our doctoral students take advantage of our generous transfer credit policy -- and our transfer-friendly process makes it seamless to get credit for what you already know.

1:1 Transfer Support

We’ll work with you to make sure you maximize all possible transfer credits

Learning Communities

Stay motivated, increase your learning and expand your network.

Finish in as Few as 3 Years

Advance toward your future – faster.

Types of Credits That Transfer Toward Your Doctorate

Find out what qualifies for transfer credit toward Franklin’s doctoral degree programs. Hint: It’s more than you’ll get at many other universities.

Previous Doctoral Credit

We’ll help you maximize the number of credits you can transfer from your previous doctoral program, so that you keep the credit you’ve earned and successfully finish your doctoral degree.

Master's-Level Credits

Assuming that you earned more than 30 credits, you can use previously earned master’s level credits to satisfy elective requirements for your doctorate. Master’s-level credits eligible for elective credit must come from business, healthcare, instructional design or education.

Free Guide for Transfer Students

Get the ultimate guide to maximize your college transfer credit so you can accelerate your completion time and lower your total tuition cost at every academic level.

Download Now >

Online Doctorate Degrees

Related pages.

Estimate Your Transfer Credit
How to Transfer College Credit
Types of Transfer Credit
Transferring from a Community College
Transfer into Bachelor’s Degree
Transfer into a Master’s Degree
Transfer into Associate Degree

Back to College Blog

Will My Associate Degree Transfer To Any College?

Do Community College Credits Transfer to a Four-Year Degree?

Will My College Credits Transfer?

7 Big College Transfer Credit Questions You Must Ask

Microcredentials & Certificates
Tuition & Financial Aid
Transferring Credit
The Franklin Experience
FranklinWORKS Marketplace
Safety & Security
Policy Information
Your Privacy Settings
Privacy Policy
Terms of Use
Careers At Franklin

Franklin University 201 S Grant Ave. Columbus , OH 43215

Local: (614) 797-4700 Toll Free: (877) 341-6300 [email protected]

Franklin University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org/800.621.7440) and authorized by the Ohio Department of Higher Education.

Franklin University is committed to being an inclusive community free from all forms of discrimination and harassment.

Program Finder
Applied Data Science
Business Analytics
Healthcare Analytics
Applied Management
Business Administration
Business Forensics
Cloud Computing
Communications
Computer Science
Criminal Justice Administration
Cybersecurity
Adolescence to Young Adult Education (7-12)
Education Studies
Intervention Specialist
Middle Childhood Education (4-9)
Primary Education (PK-5)
Exercise Science
Financial Management
Financial Planning
Forensic Accounting
Health Information Management
Healthcare Administration
Human Resources Management
Business Analysis & Project Management
Business Information Systems
Healthcare Information Systems
Information Technology
Interactive Media Design
Management & Leadership
Nursing (RN-BSN)
Operations & Supply Chain Management
Public Health
Public Safety Management & Leadership
Social Sciences
Sport Management
User Experience & Graphic Design
M.S. in Accounting - Financial Operations Focus
M.S. in Accounting - Taxation Focus
M.S. in Accounting (non-Accounting background)
Business Psychology
M.S. in Computer Science - General
M.S. in Computer Science - Cybersecurity Focus
M.S. in Computer Science - Data Analytics Focus
M.S. in Computer Science - Software Systems Focus
M.S. in Computer Science (non-Computer Science background)
Data Analytics
M.Ed. - Higher Education Leadership
M.Ed. - K-12 Building Level Leadership
M.Ed. - Principal Licensure
Health Informatics
Healthcare Administration (MHA) - General
Healthcare Administration (MHA) - Human Resources
Healthcare Administration (MHA) - Operational Excellence
Healthcare Administration (MHA) - Organizational Leadership
Human Resource Management
Information Systems
M.S. in Information Technology - Cybersecurity
M.S. in Information Technology - Data Analytics
M.S. in Information Technology - Healthcare
M.S. in Information Technology - IT Leadership
M.S. in Information Technology - IT Management
M.S. in Information Technology - Learning Technology
Instructional Design & Learning Technology
MBA-General
MBA-Business Analytics
MBA-Business Psychology
MBA-Finance
MBA-Healthcare
MBA-Human Resources
MBA-Information Technology
MBA-Marketing
MBA-Operational Excellence
MBA-Organizational Leadership
Nursing-Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP)
Nursing-Generalist (MSN)
Nursing-Nurse Educator
Nursing-Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Nurse Administrator (MSN-ADM)
Professional Sales Leadership
Public Administration-General
Public Administration-Criminal Justice
Public Administration-Healthcare
Public Administration-Human Resources
Public Administration-Organizational Leadership
Business Administration (DBA)
Healthcare Administration (DHA)
Instructional Design Leadership (DPS)
Instructional Design Leadership (Ed.D.) - Curriculum & Instruction
Instructional Design Leadership (Ed.D.) - Educational Technology
Organizational Leadership (Ed.D.) - Higher Education Leadership Focus
Organizational Leadership (Ed.D.) - Organizational Leadership Focus
Organizational Leadership (Ed.D.) - PK-12 Educational Leadership Focus
DNP - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Track
DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner Track
DNP - Leadership Track
DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Track
BSN to DNP Option
A.A.S. Business Administration
A.S. Business Administration
Criminal Justice
Health Services
IT-Project Management
Public Safety
Online Learning at Franklin
Accounting Programs
Business & Leadership Programs
Computer Science Programs
Criminal Justice & Public Safety Programs
Cybersecurity Programs
Data & Analytics Programs
Education Programs
Finance Programs
Healthcare Programs
Human Resources Programs
Information Technology Programs
Marketing & Communications Programs
Nursing Programs
Operations & Project Management Programs
Psychology Programs
Public & Social Sciences Programs
Online Learning Facts
Degrees By Location
College of Arts, Sciences & Technology
College of Health & Public Administration
International Institute For Innovative Instruction
Ross College of Business
School of Education
School of Nursing
Degree Completion Programs
Second Bachelor's Degrees
Microcredentials
Accounting Data Analytics
Cyber Defense
Cyber Governance
Criminal Justice Leadership
Nurse Educator
Instructional Design
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Family Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Intervention Specialist: Mild/Moderate (K-12)
Advanced Accounting Microcredential
Undergraduate Students
Graduate Students
Partnership Students
Study in the U.S.
Earn Your Degree Online
Community College Students
College Credit Plus
Coast Guard
Montgomery GI Bill® - Selected Reserves
Montgomery GI Bill®
Post-9/11 GI Bill®
Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment VetSuccess Program
Yellow Ribbon Program
Spouses & Family
Online Open House
Associate Degrees
General Bachelor's Degree
Business Administration (MBA)
Healthcare Administration (MHA)
Public Administration
Nursing Practice-Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP-FNP)
Nursing Practice-Leadership Track (DNP)
Organizational Leadership (Ed.D.)
Tuition & Fees
Cost Estimate Calculator Tool
Tuition Guarantee
Undergrad Tuition Comparison
Federal Aid & State Aid
Institutional Aid & Private Loans
Applying for Aid
Scholarships
Payment Options
Financial Aid Resources
How to Transfer Credits
Previously Earned College Credit
Certificates + Professional Training Credit
Military Training Credit
Testing Credit
Partner Schools
Pathway Portal
Transfer into a Bachelor’s Degree
Transfer into a Doctoral Degree
Transfer into an Associate Degree
Built For Working Adults
Transfer Friendly
Accredited University & Quality Degrees
Fast & Affordable
Student Success Stories
Valued By Employers
Student Support
Career Development
Become a Partner
Current Partners
Benefits for Community Colleges
Benefits for Businesses
Employer Partnerships
Al Baha University
Saudi Electronic University
Current Partnerships
Medical School Partnerships
Nurse Preceptor
Ohio School District Partnerships
Board of Trustees
University Leadership
University Directory
Faculty Profiles
President's Welcome
Admission Advisors
CCNE Accreditation
IACBE Accreditation
State Authorization & Professional Licensure Information
Our Mission & Values
The Four Cornerstones
Our History
Consumer Information
Map & Directions
Faculty & Staff
Future Students
Request an Expert
Presentations & Awards
Faculty Awards and Recognitions
Speakers' Bureau
Event Hosting
Discrimination Harassment & Sexual Misconduct
Anti-Hazing Policy
Drug Free School & Communities Act
Franklin Intervention & Awareness Team
Filing Complaints
Application & Review Process
CITI Training
Research Review Categories
Committee & Policies
Documents, Resources & FAQs
Research at Franklin University
Programs & Support
Research Opportunities
Office of Accessibility Services
Combating Copyright Infringement
Financial Aid Statement
Influenza Information
Information Technology Acceptable Use
Notice of Privacy Rights (FERPA)
Privacy Statement
Student Parking
Tuition Refund Policy
Vaccinations
Inclement Weather Policy
Transfer Credit Policy & Procedures
Community Engagement
Request Your Franklin Transcripts
Urbana University Resources
Give to Franklin
Future Student
Potential Partner
Current Student
Franklin Alumni
Potential Donor
Online Degrees
Degree Programs
Documents & Forms

Communications
Computer Science
Criminal Justice
Environmental Management
Forensic Psychology
Healthcare Admin
Human Resources
Project Management
Social work
Special Education
Sports Management
Supply Chain Management
Adult Education
Business Intelligence
Early Childhood Education
Educational Technology
Homeland Security
Information Systems Security
Information Technology
International Business
Management Information Systems
Nonprofit Management
School Counseling
Academic Publishing Guide
Building a Graduate School Resume or CV
Choosing Between a Thesis or Non-thesis Master's Degree
Expert Guide to Studying Abroad
FAQ: Online Master's Degrees
Grad School Guide Book
Graduate School for Students with Disabilities
Green Graduate Degrees
How to Be a Successful Grad Student
How to Choose the Right Graduate Program
How to Get a Master's Degree in an Unrelated Field
How to Transfer College Credits in Grad School
How to Write a Winning Personal Statement
Inside Graduate Admissions
Ivy League Grad Schools
Master's Degrees for Veterans
Master's Degree for Women
Mental Health in Grad School
Progressive LGBTQ Graduate Degrees
Should You Apply for a Graduate School Assistantship?
Surviving Grad School with a Family
Taking a Gap Year Before Grad School
Women in STEM Graduate Resources
Writing a Successful Statement of Purpose
Alternative Ways to Pay for School
The Best Part-Time Jobs During Grad School
Company Funded Graduate School
FAFSA For Grad Students
Financial Aid Resources
Graduate Student Loans
Paying for Your Master's Degree
Paying Off Student Loans
Paying for Your PhD
Fellowship Opportunities
LGBTQ Scholarships
MBA Scholarships
Scholarship Resources
Scholarships for Veterans
Scholarships for Women
Crushing the GRE Guidebook
GMAT Guidebook
Guide to the LSAT
MCAT Prep for Medical School
Study Guide: Exam Resources
TOEFL Prep for Non-Native English Speakers
Resources How to Transfer College Credits in Grad School

How to Transfer College Credits in Grad School FAQs & Tips for Master's & PhD Students

Many students know that transferring as an undergrad is fairly common -- over one third of undergraduate students transfer schools at least once over six years -- but transferring graduate schools doesn't seem to get the same attention. This can make figuring out how to transfer at the graduate level a bit mystifying. Transferring as a master's or PhD student isn't impossible, but it does come with its own unique set of challenges and parameters. With some preparation and expert insight, students can successfully transfer schools or programs during their graduate studies, or find alternatives to transferring that better suit their circumstances.

How to Transfer Grad Schools
Tips on Transferring
Why Students Transfer Grad Schools
Alternatives to Transferring

FAQs About Transferring in Graduate School

Featured online schools.

It's natural for students to have questions and uncertainties about transferring graduate programs. After all, many graduate students don’t even know that transferring may be a viable option for them. These frequently asked questions can help prospective transfer students get a better understanding of the graduate transfer process.

Yes, although the process may sometimes be closer to applying as a first-year student. In general, students apply to a program and then request that previously-earned credits be considered for transfer. Since some master's programs have curricula and research specific to a university, certain credits may not be accepted. However, this varies by school and program of study, and students can contact advisors and admissions specialists to see how feasible the process is.

Some schools do allow students to transfer PhD programs, but it's not as common as transferring master's programs. Many PhD programs have students work closely with an advisor to conduct research, which can make transferring difficult, especially if they have made considerable progress in their studies. Students who transfer after earning a master's degree may have more opportunities.

This varies by institution and individual program. Between nine and 15 is common, but the number of transferable credits can range from three to 30 or more, depending on the program and degree level. PhD programs that allow transfer students may accept more transfer credits than master's programs.

Graduate programs typically must be completed in a specified amount of time, like five, six or seven years. Students can usually transfer credits that fall within that time frame, but they should be mindful of how those credits will affect the amount of time they have to complete their program. For instance, if a student applying to a 36-credit graduate program transfers nine credits earned four years earlier, and the program has a required completion time of six years, the student only has two years to earn the additional 27 credits needed to graduate.

Schools may require students to submit transfer credit requests within a certain period of time after starting their program, such as within the first semester or year. Students should contact admissions, a transfer advisor or the registrar's office for specific information before applying to ensure they have enough time to prepare their transfer credit request forms.

Yes, but the circumstances in which this is possible may be limited. Typically, students can transfer graduate credit between degrees if the degree programs are closely related. For instance, students who switch into an MBA program from another business-related master's program, like accounting, may have crossover between courses and can successfully transfer credits.

Students should be able to transfer between online and on campus programs, as long as prior coursework was completed at a regionally accredited institution, and the student's prospective school finds that the coursework meets equivalency standards. As with traditional transfers, credit transfer between online and on campus programs may be determined on a case-by-case basis.

It's possible. Whether or not credits earned outside of a degree program will transfer into a degree program depends on the particular courses taken and whether or not a student's prospective graduate school deems the coursework appropriate and equivalent to coursework within their program. Students who earn a B or higher in non-degree classes can submit a transfer credit request to their school and see if they are granted credit.

How to Transfer Grad School Credits

Transferring credits from one graduate school to another can take some time, but the process is fairly straightforward. Exact procedures and transfer eligibility guidelines vary by institution, so it's important that students check with their prospective graduate schools for details. The following steps should give students a general idea of what they can expect when transferring credits.

Check your school’s graduate transfer page

This is where students can find the detailed steps and requirements for transferring graduate schools. The University of Oregon , University of Indiana Bloomington and Columbia University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences provide good examples of what students should look for. Students should make sure they meet all transfer requirements delineated on their school’s graduate transfer guidelines page before proceeding. Contact the school directly with any questions.

Request official transcripts from your previous institution

A student’s prospective graduate school will need to see proof of course completion before granting transfer credit. Ordering and receiving official transcripts can take a few days or weeks, so it’s wise to do this step early.

Fill out a Request for Transfer of Graduate Credit form

Students usually have to complete a transfer credit request form, often titled Request for Transfer of Graduate Credit, or something similar. This form generally involves writing out which credits the student would like to be considered for transfer, including a description of the coursework and how it meets the requirements at their prospective graduate school.

Submit transcripts, request form and any additional documents or letters

When submitting their transfer credit request forms and transcripts, students may also need to include other documentation, like their previous institution’s course descriptions, letters of recommendation or test scores.

Wait for written approval from both the graduate school and your department of study

Sending in the request does not guarantee credit transfer. Wait for written approval to be sure that credits have successfully transferred.

Depending on their program, PhD students may have to meet with an admissions committee to explain why they want to transfer out of their previous school and into a new one. This may take extra time and preparation, so students should plan their time accordingly to give themselves the best chance at getting accepted into a new program.

Questions to Ask Before Trying to Transfer Grad Schools

Transferring graduate schools can be intimidating, but a little preparation can help. Students can ease their nerves and make sure they are ready to begin the transfer process by asking themselves a few key questions.

Does the program I want to attend accept transfer students?
Is there a minimum GPA, and do I meet it?
Are additional entrance exams needed that I haven't already taken for my current/previous program?
Do I meet the new program’s admissions requirements, or can any be waived due to experience?
How many credits am I allowed to transfer? How many will I lose?
Why do I want to transfer?
How will transferring affect my research or thesis?
How long will it take for me to complete my program if I transfer?
What will additional time in the program cost me?
Will work or family life be a conflict?
Why did I choose the program in the first place? Was the school a bad fit, or is it the area of study?

Grad School Transfer Tips

Deciding to transfer graduate schools is, for many students, a significant step toward successfully completing their graduate studies. These tips can help make the transition process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Sometimes, transferring is a student’s only option, but it’s often important for students to consider why they want to transfer schools as graduate students. Doing a self-assessment can help students figure out if transferring is going to work for them.

Dana Bearer, Associate Director of Graduate, Transfer and Adult Admissions at Clarion University, notes that there are several things students should take into consideration when deciding whether or not to transfer, such as why they chose their program, how much time a transfer will add to their completion time and whether the issues that caused them to leave their initial program will be problematic in the future. "Students need to be prepared to put in the necessary work the second time around to complete their program."

Many schools make transferring at the graduate level easy and streamlined, but starting early will help students make sure they meet all program requirements and have adequate time to fill in any gaps. Discovering you need to take a series of exams and gather recommendation letters from former instructors a month before the term begins can be a huge setback that’s best avoided.

Bearer stresses the importance of accounting for credits lost during the transfer process and the extra time it may take to complete a program at a new institution. She also reminds students of the possibility that none of their credits will transfer, and they’ll have to start over. Students may want to see if they can request transfer credit evaluations at multiple institutions before applying to a new graduate program.

While transferring as a master’s student is usually pretty simple, PhD students may have to do some considerable legwork when it comes to changing schools or programs. Admissions committees may be suspicious or skeptical of a student’s desire to transfer schools. Is their research going poorly? Do they not work well with their advisor? Did they attend a "safety school" but want a degree with a more prestigious name?

It may be crucial for students to spend some time crafting a smart statement of intent or, in cases where students meet with the admissions committee in person, a verbal explanation of their transfer request.

In circumstances where students need to defend their decision to transfer, it may be smart to request recommendation letters from doctorate advisors and instructors. Sometimes this is a requirement, but even if it isn’t, a strong set of recommendations may help a student transfer into PhD programs, which typically have limited seats and numerous applicants. Requesting recommendations from an institution you plan to leave can be uncomfortable, but a sincere and honest approach can aid in a successful transfer.

"Students should talk to their advisors before they transfer and make every effort to complete the program before they stop out or transfer," says Bearer.

If students are unable to work out the issue that’s leading to their need to transfer, they should ensure they don’t repeat the same problem in their new school. "Students should talk to an advisor at the other school they’re considering to ensure the program is a fit for them before they begin," says Bearer. "Most issues can be solved before students begin their programs."

Transferring schools may not be the only or even the best solution for graduate students. Considering why they want to transfer and other potential ways to meet that end can help students make the right decision for their academic, professional and personal lives.

Why You Might Want or Need to Transfer Grad Schools

Like undergraduates, graduate students may find themselves in a wide range of circumstances that lead them to transfer schools. However, the common reasons graduate students make a change in their program of study are usually different from or more nuanced than undergraduate woes and may require more reflection.

One of the most common reasons I see graduate students transfer is cost," says Bearer. Students may find that after starting a graduate program, they are not able to sustain their studies for financial reasons. Whether something unexpected happens with their financial aid, a work situation changes, the program takes longer to complete than expected or something else, students may need to look for a different graduate program in order to finish their degree.

Bearer notes that job and family issues often play a role in causing graduate students to transfer. She says that family or work will cause students to drop out of a program for a length of time. “At that point, they usually decide that their work or family life conflicts with the program, so they stop enrolling.” However, transferring to a program that provides the flexibility or proximity they need may be a better solution for graduate students that allows them to finish their degree.

Usually students go into their graduate programs with a pretty solid idea of what they want to study, but sometimes students find that the program isn’t what they expected and another field might better suit their interests. In this case, students may be able to transfer graduate programs within the same school, which can increase the possibility of credit transfer if the programs are closely related.

Graduate students, especially PhD students, may conduct extensive research as part of their degree programs. Students often choose their graduate school based off their research interests and how closely those interests align with their department’s expertise. However, students may begin their research only to find that their advisor’s interests lie elsewhere, and they don’t get to conduct the research they wanted. Graduate students may feel that transferring schools is will give them a better opportunity to conduct research that fits their interests and goals.

Sometimes students don’t do as well as they expect in their graduate program. "Unfortunately, a student may be earning failing grades and have been dismissed from the program, thus resulting in a need to transfer," says Bearer. If a student’s overall GPA causes them to be dismissed from their program but they’ve maintained a B or higher in a few classes, they may be able to transfer those particular credits to a different graduate program.

PhD students work closely with advisors to conduct research and develop their theses. Every now and then an advisor will pass away or switch schools, leaving students with a difficult decision. For the sake of their research, students may officially follow their advisor to their new school or opt to find a new advisor elsewhere.

Alternatives to Transferring Graduate Schools

Transferring graduate schools isn’t as difficult as it may seem, but that doesn’t necessarily make it the best option for all students. Students should carefully consider why they want to transfer and see if any alternatives make more sense given their circumstances and goals.

If family or work obligations, or other circumstances make attending classes at the same schedule impossible, students can consider taking some of their course requirements online rather than transferring to a new program. More and more schools are offering online options, so it may be possible to complete some courses online even if the student originally enrolled in a fully on-campus program. Check with the admissions department to see if it’s possible.

If students can stick their PhD program out for at least two years, they may be able to transfer out and receive a terminal master’s degree instead. Students can then switch to a different PhD program or stop at the master’s level.

Students who have advisor-related issues, like differences in research goals, may be able to collaborate with students and instructors at other universities while still completing their coursework at their current institution. Similarly, if an advisor moves schools, students may still be able to work with that advisor for research without formally enrolling in the other school.

In some cases, Bearer suggests that a student may be able to complete a small number of credits in a new program and transfer those to complete a degree in the student’s original program. “This might be an option if the student is only a few classes from completing the program and their home school is willing to accept the classes,” she says.

Schools cap the number of credits a student is allowed to transfer, so those who need to transfer near the end of their programs could be at a huge loss. However, if they are able to take the last few credits they need at a new institution and then transfer back to their original program, students may be able to make the most of an unfortunate situation.

If students transfer credits after a significant hiatus, they may not realize how little time they have left to complete a program, especially if not all of their credits transfer. “Consider the cost of transferring and how many credits you have left to complete the program,” advises Bearer. Sometimes it’s more cost-effective to start fresh rather than transfer a few older credits and risk not finishing a program on time.

Majors & Careers
Online Grad School
Preparing For Grad School
Student Life

How to Transfer Graduate School: 7 Key Steps

You’ve researched grad schools, chosen your desired master’s program, and have been admitted to an institution. But what if you change your mind?

Luckily, you don’t have to be stuck in a program that doesn’t suit you: It’s absolutely possible to transfer graduate schools (and even transfer master’s credits). Read on to discover the key steps – and questions you should be asking – when it comes to transferring grad credits.

Table of Contents

Why Do Some People Transfer Grad Schools?

campus lecture, looking down at professor

These days, it’s actually pretty common to switch institutions. Some students:

desire a degree from a more prestigious school to increase job prospects
switch because their current school doesn’t fit their personal needs or budgets
have goals or interests that have shifted
don’t like the learning style at their institution

How to Transfer Grad School: 7 Easy Steps

Sure, you can transfer grad schools. But if you’ve committed to changing your educational institution, you’ll first need to determine how to make the process as smooth as possible.

1. Understand Your Needs

Transferring grad schools may be your only option to complete your degree, but you should have a clear answer about why you want to switch schools . It would be pointless if your new institution didn’t meet your needs. To figure out whether a transfer is right for you, consider the following points:

Think about how much time the transition will take. Will it delay your graduation?
Assess whether a switch like this will resolve the issues you currently have.
Speak to your current advisor, registrar, or another school representative about issues you’re facing. Can they be resolved without switching schools?
Ensure that you’ll be able to complete a new grad program (without losing any credits) by speaking with the admission advisors at your potential school.

Remember: You wouldn’t want to get admitted elsewhere only to face the same problems. Take the time to assess your situation.

2. Check the School’s Requirements

Once you’re sure that you want to transfer grad schools, start obtaining detailed information on the grad school transfer eligibility criteria. It is not as simple as switching to a new university for an undergrad degree: Graduate programs are generally more complex.

Check guidelines regarding graduate transfer credits on the school’s student web pages. Since grad school requirements depend on the institution, discuss your requirements with the transfer office over the phone, via email, and/or in person. They’ll give you a stronger idea of what’s needed to get your transfer request approved.

3. Pull Together Your Transcripts

Before you can start applying, your new school will need to see evidence of your completed courses. You’ll need an official transcript from your old/current school as quickly as possible, as official transcripts can take up to several weeks to receive.

I’m Not a Current Student – Can I Still Transfer Graduate Credits?

You don’t need to be currently enrolled to transfer graduate credits. While it depends on the field of study, most credits don’t have an expiration date if they’re from a nationally-accredited institution. Even if you dropped out of grad school three years ago, you might be able to transfer some – or all – of your credits.

However, some grad school credits can only be transferred within a certain period of time (typically between five and seven years).

For example, say that you apply to a master’s program with a completion time of seven years. You will then need to transfer credits earned from a previous program you completed five years before. In this case, you may need to complete all of the credits to earn your degree within two years (a total of seven years since you commenced your studies). Therefore, transferring credits can occasionally put pressure on students to complete their degrees in a faster time frame.

Will All of My Grad School Credits Transfer?

You may not be able to transfer all of your credits when switching schools. This depends on the school’s policies – and these vary widely . Most schools place a limit on the number of transferable credits, while others institutions don’t accept any! You should always check the institution’s own rules and requirements before applying for a transfer.

Usually, you’ll be able to transfer more credits if seeking a similar degree (like if you relocate from one AACSB-accredited MBA to another). However, your options will certainly be more limited if you change to a completely different master’s degree.

I Studied Online or Off-Campus – Will My Credits Transfer?

Generally, you can transfer online graduate program credits to a campus program.

Most institutions aren’t concerned if students completed their previous studies online or on campus. It’s important that these credits were earned at a recognized, accredited school (and that you hold a decent GPA).

4. Write a Strong Statement

While this depends on the institution, students will usually need to go through the normal application process when transferring graduate schools. This often includes writing a personal statement that outlines their experience/qualifications and explains their motivations.

As a transfer student, it’s important to address the elephant in the room when writing your personal statement: Why are you looking to transfer schools? Your new institution may be concerned that you are undedicated or have had problems working with your professors or advisors. All institutions desire graduate students that become a credit to the school, so be prepared to create a strong statement – and even meet the selection committee in person to explain why you want a transfer.

5. Get Recommendation Letters

As part of your application, you may also be required to submit letters of recommendation. These documents are critical and increase your chances of being selected for the program, so be sure to request a recommendation letter from your professors and advisors.

Even if recommendation letters aren’t required, presenting two or three is good practice to increase your chances. If you have a strong track record at your current institution, your new school may waive certain admission requirements (such as the GMAT and GRE ).

6. Submit Your Application & Apply for Credit Transfers

Once you have all these elements in place, it’s time to submit your application. Once you’ve been accepted, the next step is to complete the process to transfer master’s programs.

To do this, you’ll need to arrange for your grad school credits to be transferred to your new institution. You want to make sure that you transfer as many credits as possible (since you’ve put a lot of hard work into your degree).

How to Use a Transfer Credit Request Form

Generally, your new school will need you to fill out a transfer credit request form. This may be called a “Transfer of Graduate Credit” or something similar, but the school’s graduate admission office can tell you specifics. You’ll need to specify the credits you want to transfer, then detail the coursework to show how it meets your new school’s requirements.

Complete the transfer credit request form, attaching your official academic transcript, recommendation letters, personal statement, and any other required documentation.

7. Wait for Approval

Once you’ve put in your application, the only thing left to do is wait! Remember: There’s no guarantee that your new school will accept all your credits, so wait for the green light before proceeding. If the school doesn’t accept all your graduate credits, you may want to consider other institutions (or stick with your current program instead).

Questions to Ask Before Trying to Transfer Grad Schools

Depending on your individual situation, transferring grad schools may be an excellent move, or it might not be such a good idea.

Ask yourself these questions before you initiate the process of trying to transfer grad schools:

Does my prospective graduate school accept transfer students?
When do I need to apply to grad school ?
What is the institution’s policy for transferring credit hours?
What are their admission requirements (e.g., minimum GPA, entrance exams)?
Will they waive any admission requirements and consider my previous experience?
What is my main motivation for transferring graduate programs? Will this move meet these objectives?
What is it about my current program I don’t like? Is it the school, the program, or the area of study in general?
Will I be able to continue my current research or thesis if I transfer?
Will transferring master’s programs push back my completion date?

Top Tips to Transfer Graduate Schools with Minimal Hassle

Research the process.

Transferring graduate programs can be a complex process and involve a range of document submissions (like transfer credit request forms) and a formal application. To avoid delaying your graduation date, do your groundwork, keep track of submission deadlines, and start the process as early as possible.

Keep Your End Goal in Mind

Before you decide to transfer to a new program, take a step back and consider why you chose your graduate program in the first place:

What were your key motivations?
What were you trying to achieve through graduate studies?
Where did the institution fall short?

Critically assess whether your new graduate school will address your current issues. Will it allow you to meet your goals?

Ask about Credits for Training and Experience

Formal training or certification courses completed during your academic career might be eligible for transfer credits, even if they weren’t conducted at a university. Your new school may offer credits for work experience if you’re a seasoned professional. Chat with your admissions advisor to discuss possible credit for previous training.

Only Transfer If It’s a Step Up

Transferring grad schools takes a lot of time and effort – and you may need to make up for credit hours that aren’t possible to transfer. Add in the complexities of adjusting to a new school and getting to know your peers/professors. Even though it’s a good idea to apply to multiple grad schools , ensure there are enough benefits. After all, there’s no point in going through all of this for a “safety school.”

It’s Not Always Worth Transferring Credits

Graduate students occasionally find that the restrictions around transferring older credits means that they’re not left with much time to finish their program. If a handful of credits are fairly old, it may not make sense to transfer them. In fact, it may actually be better to start fresh so you won’t be under pressure to complete your program within a short time frame.

Maximize Time in Your Current Program

Once you’ve applied for a transfer, you may have to sit out of your current program before you can make a move. Why not take advantage of this period by taking electives that can be transferred as credit to your new studies? If that option isn’t possible, consider reducing your course load and using the time to get work published in a journal or gain work experience as a community college adjunct professor.

Take Advantage of Your New Start

Once you’ve successfully transferred to your preferred graduate program, make the most of it: Learn from your mistakes and approach university with a new focus.

Are There Alternatives to Transferring Graduate Schools?

If you’re unhappy with your current grad school – or feel it doesn’t meet your career goals – switching isn’t your only option. There are a few alternatives to transferring grad school that might help address your concerns.

Look into Outside Collaboration

If your main issue is not getting along with your advisors (or you feel they can’t best support your research goals), you may be able to access external collaboration opportunities without transferring schools entirely.

Ask If You Can Continue Working with Your Advisor

If your advisor has moved to a different school and you want to continue working with them, see if it’s possible through external collaboration (instead of changing schools).

See If Online Classes Are an Option

Some graduate programs allow students to take some of their classes remotely. If your main issues with your current program are logistical problems or scheduling conflicts, see if your school will meet some of your course requirements online. This could go a long way to resolve your concerns, all without finding an online master’s program .

Transfer Credits to Your Original School

If you’re close to finishing your degree, it might make more sense to take a few courses elsewhere – then transferring those credits back to your original school . Not all programs will facilitate this, but it’s worth asking!

Go for a Terminal Master’s Degree

If you can’t see yourself completing your doctorate, you may be able to apply your studies toward a terminal master’s qualification . This would give you the option to leave school and find a job after two years or transfer to a different Ph.D. program (if you think a related area of research would be a better fit).

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my new school accept my credits for a master’s program.

You can submit a request for previously-earned credits to be considered for your new master’s program. In many cases, your new school will accept some – if not all – of your credits. However, there is no guarantee: Most institutions only accept the credits earned from reputable, nationally-accredited schools. Others have a policy not to accept transfer credits at all.

Do Graduate Schools Look at Transfer GPA?

This depends on the school and the admissions process, but most grad schools use your current grad program’s GPA as one of their main criteria for accepting your application.

Will They Consider My Undergraduate GPA?

Again, this depends on the graduate school. If they assess your application like any other applicant, the institution will almost certainly consider your undergraduate GPA. However, a strong academic transcript from your graduate program and excellent recommendation letters may help offset a problematic undergrad GPA.

Will I Need to Sit an Entrance Exam Like the GRE/GMT?

To determine program eligibility, you may need to take an entrance test (if you didn’t already sit the required test as part of applying to your initial school). GRE and GMAT are the most popular entrance tests for transfer students. An entrance test may or may not be required, but this depends on the school, your academic record, and any professional credentials.

How Long Do You Have to Transfer Graduate Credits from One School to Another?

When graduate students transfer their credits, schools usually set a time limit (this depends on the program). Ask the college admissions office to check their rules around transferring credit hours. Transferring older credits may also mean you’ll need to complete your degree within a shorter time frame (i.e., before those transfer credits expire).

Can You Transfer Credits That Weren’t Part of a Graduate Degree Program?

Yes, in some cases, you can get credit for formal training and education you’ve completed, even if it wasn’t part of a graduate program. This is, however, at the discretion of the admissions office. You may even be able to get credit for professional work experience if it was extensive enough.

Can You Transfer Ph.D. Programs?

Graduate students working towards a doctorate may be able to transfer to another Ph.D. program, but this isn’t as common. Ph.D. students typically work closely with a supervisor on a specific piece of research, so transferring to another school (and a different supervisor) may be impossible. Generally speaking, the further along you are with your Ph.D., the more challenging this will be.

Final Thoughts

It can be tricky to transfer graduate schools, but with a bit of research and the right approach, you’ll soon find the best graduate school for transfer students and be able to start the next part of your academic career without too much hassle.

Don’t let your uncertainty about how to transfer grad school get in the way of pursuing your dreams!

To help you put together a strong grad school application, check out these related guides:

What to Ask in Your Grad School Interview
How to Request a Recommendation Letter from Your Professor

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

Lisa Marlin https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/lisa-marlin/ 30+ Best Dorm Room Essentials for Guys in 2024
Lisa Marlin https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/lisa-marlin/ 12 Best Laptops for Computer Science Students
Lisa Marlin https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/lisa-marlin/ ACBSP Vs AACSB: Which Business Program Accreditations is Better?
Lisa Marlin https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/lisa-marlin/ BA vs BS: What You Need to Know [2024 Guide]

Full-Time vs Part-Time Student: What’s the Difference?

Does gpa matter in grad school, related posts.

How Many Grad Schools Should I Apply To?

When to Apply for Grad School: The Simple Guide [2026/2027]

When to Apply for Grad School: Easy Monthly Timeline [2025-2026]

Guys need these items to complete their dorm rooms.

30+ Best Dorm Room Essentials for Guys in 2024

Best Laptop for Programming Students in 2024

This financial planning app helps students prepare for college and grad school.

The Sassy Digital Assistant Revolutionizing Student Budgeting

The GradCafe released a whitepaper with a decade's worth of data on graduate admission trends for computer science programs.

Computer Science Graduate Admission Trends: Annual Results

Transfer credit

Leaves of absence & returns
Registration load & light load
Light load tuition
Summer tuition subsidy
Special student
Sloan School of Management
Visiting student
Other programs with non-standard tuition
Miscellaneous fees
Summer proration
Fall proration
Spring proration
Other degree dates & deadlines
Undergraduate degree requirements
Graduate degree requirements
Ordering transcripts
Express shipping
Enrollment certifications
Dean's certifications
Apostille certifications
Loan deferment letters
Subject registration letters
Paper diplomas
Digital diploma verification
Replacement diplomas
Suppressing directory information
Advisor access
Heads of House access
Address update
Name changes
Gender, legal sex & pronouns
Other biographic information
Voter registration
Schedule of classes
Class lists
Prerequisite reports
Request a final exam
Conflict exams
First year core exams
Advanced Standing Examinations
Listener status (auditing)
First year grading
Flexible P/NR Grading Option
Graduate P/D/F Option
Advanced Standing Exam grades
Repeating a subject
Incomplete work
Changing a grade
IAP grading
Calculating GPA
Giving constructive feedback
Custom question guidelines
1 Preferences
2 Teaching Data
3 Question Management
4 Evaluate Subjects
Report access & use of data
History & oversight
Rules for conducting classes
Managing limited-enrollment subjects
Managing CI-H/HW subjects
Non-Registrar rooms
Equipment policies
Event registration
Room & event resources
Current projects
Recent projects
Advising resources
Proposing a major
Proposing a minor
Proposing a graduate program
Proposing a HASS subject
Proposing a HASS Concentration
Proposing a CI-H/HW subject
Proposing a CI-M subject
Cross-listed
Equivalent with Scheduling Relationship (EQSR)
School-wide elective
Special subjects
Subjects involving digital content
Prerequisites & corequisites
Calculating instructional units
Style guide
Naming a subject
Title guidelines: special subjects
Transcript titles: standard abbreviations
Subject descriptions
Catalog & schedule coordinators
Funded projects
How to apply
Additional funding sources
How to nominate
Former Fellows
Event archive
About Margaret MacVicar
Program supporters
1 Introduction
2 Subjects: General Issues
3 Subjects: GIR Subjects
4 Subjects: The Communication Requirement
5 Subjects: First-Year Advising Seminars
6 Subjects: ROTC Subjects
7 Subjects: IAP Subjects
8 Subjects: Enrollment Management
9 Guidelines for Preparing Subject Proposals
10 Curricula: Majors
11 Curricula: Minors
12 Petitions
13 CoC as Advisory Body to Registrar
14 Appendix: Excerpts from Rules and Regulations of the Faculty Regarding Degrees
15 Appendix: Excerpts from Rules and Regulations of the Faculty Regarding Grades
16 Appendix: Degree Programs - Table of Required Votes
17 Appendix: Guidelines for Subject Numbering
Meeting schedule
Institute Laboratory substitution
Restricted Elective in Science and Technology (REST) substitution
CUP reports

What you need to know

You may request transfer credit for subjects taken before you arrived at MIT or while you were already enrolled as an MIT student. Each department has its own transfer credit examiner who can advise you on procedures and appropriateness.

Transfer credit will appear on your academic record with a grade of S. Although the grade is not used in calculating your term or cumulative GPA, the credit counts towards your Institute requirements. If there is no equivalent subject at MIT, the examiner may award elective credit.

Graduate students — your major department determines to what extent subjects are acceptable for credit toward the requirements of your advanced degree. Credit is considered with all other academic information in reviewing your application and in formulating your degree program.

Some key points to remember:

You cannot receive transfer credit for subjects used to fulfill a degree at another institution.
Transfer credit requests must include an official transcript showing work and final grade.
If the transcript is in a language other than English, you must provide a translation from a licensed translator.
Additional approval, beyond that of the transfer credit examiner, is required for HASS and CI transfer credit. See below.
Transfer credit requests for advanced degrees at MIT are considered special cases and are rarely approved.

What you need to do

Incoming first-year undergraduates and transfer students — review information about AP and transfer credit on the Office of the First Year website .
Consult the appropriate transfer credit examiner before registering for a class at another college to ensure that it is suitable for transfer credit and if a minimum grade is required.
Arrange for an official transcript, showing the coursework and your final grade, to be sent by email to [email protected] .
Request a copy of this transcript from the Registrar's Office to show to the MIT transfer credit examiner.
Bring your completed Transfer Credit Request Form to the MIT transfer credit examiner for approval, and submit your approved form to [email protected] .

What you need to do — HASS transfer credit

Generally, subjects taken outside of MIT are only eligible for HASS elective credit with the HASS transfer credit examiner’s approval.

Contact the HASS transfer credit examiner for the HASS field in which you are seeking credit and obtain his or her approval on the Transfer Credit Request Form .
If the Examiner has awarded credit with a specific MIT subject number, HASS Distribution credit, or has recommended general HASS Elective credit, email [email protected] for a final signature.
Submit your approved form to [email protected] .
Transfer students — submit your completed form to Room 7-104.

What you need to do — Communication Requirement transfer credit

Contact the transfer credit examiner for the academic department that teaches material similar to the course you took elsewhere and obtain the examiner's signature of approval on the Transfer Credit Request Form .
Email the Assistant Dean for the Communication and HASS Requirements at [email protected] .
We will help you prepare a petition to the Subcommittee on the Communication Requirement (SOCR).
Transfer credit for Communication Requirement subjects must be approved by SOCR.

Quick Links

Academic Catalog
Schedule of Classes

301-314-8256

Transfer Credit

Transfer Credit Services (TCS) provides accurate and timely information about undergraduate transfer policies and procedures to transfer advisors and students.

Additionally, TCS oversees and supports the undergraduate transfer evaluation process, which includes: determining the acceptability of courses, awarding credit by the University of Maryland, and maintaining the database of transfer course evaluations.

All courses evaluated by UMD for transfer are searchable in the Transfer Course Database.

Evaluation Process

Students must follow certain steps to have courses taken at another institution evaluated for transfer to UMD.

Permission to Enroll

Students who wish to take courses at another institution while enrolled at UMD, must complete a Permission to Enroll request.

Prior Learning Credit

Students have several opportunities to receive undergraduate credit for knowledge and achievements gained through prior learning.

Reverse Transfer

Students may be eligible to transfer courses completed at UMD back to their previously attended Maryland public community college to earn an associate's degree.

Answers to common transfer credit questions

Useful Transfer Student Resources

Office of undergraduate admissions.

The Office of Undergraduate Admissions assists applicants with questions on the admissions process, such as verifying UMD's receipt of application materials (including transcripts).

Pre-Transfer Advising Program

The Pre-Transfer Advising Program assists prospective students with determining their readiness to transfer and estimating time to degree completion at UMD.

Records & Registration Services

Records & Registration Services assists newly admitted and current students with verifying if their transcript has been received or requesting their domestic transfer courses to be posted to their UMD record.

The Graduate College at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Transferring credit.

There are two types of credit that a graduate student may wish to transfer. Different rules apply for each type.

Credit from one graduate degree program to another graduate degree program within the Graduate College at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Credit completed outside the Graduate College.

See the Graduate College Handbook for details on Transfer of Credit . Both types require completion of a graduate student petition .

Search This Site All UCSD Sites Faculty/Staff Search Term
Meet the Dean
Meet the Team
Professors of the Graduate Division
Funding Opportunities
Alumni & Friends
Prospective Students
Degree Programs
Requirements
Admitted Students
Admission FAQ
Compliance/Health and Safety Information
Tuition & Fees
Fellowships
Third-Party Payments
Non-UC Visiting Grads
Financial Support FAQ
News & Updates
Progress to Degree
Enrolling at UC San Diego
Preparing to Graduate

Policies & Procedures

Student Academic FAQ
Merkin Graduate Fellows Program
Health & Wellbeing
Professional Development
Student Spotlights
Programs and Resources
Postdoctoral Affairs
Transferring Credit
Petitions for transfer credit must first be approved by the student’s graduate program and then submitted to GEPA for approval.
No more than one-half the total units required for a master's degree may be transferred.
A student may petition to transfer courses completed while in graduate standing at another UC campus (including UC San Diego Extension) for up to one half the total master's degree unit requirement, a maximum of eight quarter units of work completed while in graduate standing (i.e. matriculated into a graduate degree program) at an institution other than UC may be transferred. In any case, no more than a total of one half of the units required for the master's degree may be transfer units.
Eligible course work may not have been used to fulfill the requirements of any other degree, and must have been completed with a B- or better grade and must have been taken prior to enrollment as a graduate student at UC San Diego.
A student must submit proof that the course work to be transferred was not used to satisfy requirements for any other degree program. Degree checks or a letter from the institution from which the courses are being transferred will be required stating the courses were not used toward another degree.
Official transcripts of transfer course work must accompany the petition OR be on file at Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Affairs.
Under no circumstances will transferred work be included in calculating a student's GPA nor will it appear by class on the transcript.
Academic Standing & Probation
Duplication of Degree
Grade Changes
Repetition of Courses
New Degree Proposals
Graduate Program Reviews

Graduate Residency Transfer Credit

Main navigation.

On this page: Overview • Criteria for Assessment • Posting of Credit • Minimum Residency Requirement Changes • Work Completed Outside of the US

After completing their first enrolled quarter of graduate work at Stanford, Engineer, D.M.A., or Ph.D. students may request transfer credit for graduate work completed at another institution. Students enrolled at Stanford who are going to study elsewhere during their degree program should obtain prior approval for any transfer credit sought before their departure. Students in the following programs are not eligible to request graduate residency transfer credit:

Master's degree students
Engineer candidates who also earned their master’s at Stanford
MD students
GSB-MBA students

A maximum of 45 units of graduate-level work, either from completion of a Stanford master's degree or taken at an external institution, may be applied to the Stanford requirements for Ph.D., D.M.A., or Engineer degrees. Students who earn a Stanford master's degree and are subsequently awarded any amount of external graduate transfer credit will have their doctoral residency requirement raised from 135 to 180 units.

The J.D. program permits 30 transfer units (2.0 terms).

The application for Graduate Residency Transfer Credit is available in Axess: My Academics > Petitions & Forms > Student eForms. Once complete, it is reviewed by your department and the Registrar’s Office. Any approved transfer credit is converted into quarter units and then posted to your student record. Once awarded, Graduate Residency Transfer Credit is reflected on your unofficial transcript.

Please see the complete Transfer Work policy in the university bulletin. For more information on the residency requirements for your program(s), Please review the Residency information page for more information on the residency requirements for your program.

Criteria for Assessment

To award Graduate Residency Transfer Credit for graduate-level work done at another institution, the following criteria must be met:

Courses must have been taken at a regionally accredited college or university in the U.S. or at a degree-granting foreign institution.
Courses taken at foreign universities must be applicable to a degree program equivalent to a U.S. Master's Degree or higher .
Courses with no 1:1 Stanford course equivalent
Courses taken while in a non-matriculated status, i.e. not enrolled in a degree-granting program.
Graduate research/thesis/dissertation
Forms requesting excessive non-equivalent units may be denied
Partially or fully-online coursework is acceptable for transfer credit; correspondence coursework is not.
Up to 12 units of non-matriculated or extension coursework can be applied toward the non-equivalent unit maximum.
The only exception is for work taken through programs structured similarly to Stanford’s coterminal bachelor's/master's program . Any work taken through such programs must be at the graduate level and applied toward the completion of the graduate degree. Documentation regarding the nature of the program, either published or via further verification from the institution's registrar, may be required.
Pass grades are accepted only for courses that do not offer letter grades and the standard of passing is 'B' quality work. (Thesis/research/dissertation coursework does not fall under this category and can be taken for Pass/Satisfactory/Credit grades.)

Residency Requirement Changes

If you have earned a Stanford master's degree, or are concurrently earning one with your PhD, adding transfer credit to your student record will increase your PhD residency requirement to 180 units.
If you are enrolled in a joint degree program that includes a Ph.D, graduate transfer credit may not be applied toward the residency requirement even if it was already awarded prior to your authorization into the JDP.

Requesting Credit

Students must complete the Application for Graduate Residency Transfer Credit eForm, located in Axess: My Academics > Petitions & Forms > Student eForms
Electronic transcripts can be sent to [email protected]
Hard-copy transcripts may be mailed to 459 Lagunita Dr, Suite 4 Tresidder Memorial Union, 2nd Floor Stanford, CA 94305.
Your form will not be processed until the official transcript is in the possession of the Office of the University Registrar
If you submitted official transcripts to Graduate Admissions when you began your program, you will not need to send new copies.
Course codes/numbers and titles
Final grades (credit can only be awarded if a final grade is posted on the transcript and must have a GPA of 3.0 or better)
Credits or Units awarded by the issuing school

Posting of Credit

Approved Graduate Transfer Residency Credit is converted into quarter units and then posted to your student record.

Equivalent units (courses with a Stanford course number equivalent) are converted using the sending school's credit hour policy. Frequently-encountered credit hour policies include:

Schools following a US semester (or equivalent): Number of units x 1.5
Schools following the European credit system (ECTS): Number of units x 0.75
Schools following the UK standard credit system (CATS): Number of units x 0.25
Schools without a stated credit hour policy, but with a numerical unit system, will be converted by dividing 45 (the number of units in a Stanford masters degree) by the number of units toward the degree program in which you were enrolled.
Because terminology such as "units", "credit", "course", "term" and others are not standardized, particularly among international institutions, schools without a discernable credit hour policy will have their final unit award determined individually by the Office of the Registrar. Priority will be placed on maximizing the unit award for the student. If you are worried about being under-awarded units from an international institution, you are strongly encouraged to submit your official transcript with a credential evaluation via World Education Services in place of requesting transcripts through your university

International/Abroad Institutions

To request Graduate Transfer Residency Credit for courses taken outside of the U.S., you must provide official (sealed) documentation that clearly states:

The home institution's accreditation (must be officially recognized)
The home institution's grading scale or system (Note: if a course has a 'P' or 'Pass' grade listed, the grading scale must explicitly state what the minimum grade is to pass. Pass grades are accepted only for courses without a letter grading option and for which the standard of passing is 'B' quality work).
The home institution's credit system (quarter, ECTS, semester)
The minimum number of credits to complete the master's program at the home institution (this must be from an official source, such as a course catalog)
The level of coursework (Graduate Residency Transfer Credit can only be awarded for graduate level work)

Note : Transcripts from international institutions must be English-language or be accompanied by a translation provided by the sending institution. Purchasing a third-party, course-by-course international transcript translation and evaluation service is encouraged. Typically, these services include all of the aforementioned information. WES (World Education services) is our preferred evaluation service, but several reputable options are listed here:

World Education Services
FIS (Foundation for International Services, Inc.)
Educational Credential Evaluators
International Education Services by AACRAO
NACES Member Agencies

Transfer Credit

Courses taken prior to matriculation at Duke, as well as credit earned at another institution, or while on non-Duke study away programs have the potential to be transferred to a student's Duke academic record. It is very important that students read all applicable policies and follow all established procedures in order for the university to consider the applicability of the courses against the Duke student record.

Information about Advanced Placement credit (including AP, IB, and IPC) is available here .

College credit earned at another institution of higher education while enrolled as a high school student may qualify as credit that can be transferred to Duke. Duke policy requires that a student provide the following documentation in support of a request to transfer college-level work completed prior to high school graduation:

Transcripts: An official transcript bearing the Registrar's seal, or its equivalent, from the college or university.
Course Descriptions: Detailed course descriptions or syllabi for all courses taken to enable course evaluation.
College/University Confirmation: Confirmation from the college or university that the courses were a) taught on the college or university campus and not at an off-campus location, b) taught by a regular member of the college or university faculty, c) taken in competition with degree candidates of the college or university, and d) offered as a regular part of the curriculum of the college or university. (Provide the Prematriculation Credit College form for completion by the college or university.)
High School Confirmation: Confirmation from the high school principal or guidance counselor that the course(s) were not used to satisfy high school graduation requirements. (Provide the Prematriculation Credit High School form for completion by your high school.)

All supporting documentation for students admitted to the Pratt School of Engineering or the Trinity College of Arts & Sciences should be submitted to:

Office of the University Registrar 1121 W. Main Street, Suite 1200 Duke University Durham, NC 27701 Phone: (919) 684-2813 Email: [email protected]

Additional Policies

Courses taken after the commencement of the junior year of high school in which you received a grade of B- or better DO TRANSFER if there is a Duke equivalent course.
Courses taken prior to the commencement of the junior year of high school DO NOT TRANSFER.
Courses taken by correspondence (i.e. online) DO NOT TRANSFER. COVID-19 Exception: Pre-matriculation credits which students took at colleges and universities prior to attending Duke may be earned from online courses if taken during the COVID-19 pandemic (Spring 2020-Summer 2021) provided they were courses which are normally taught face-to-face. All other policies for pre-matriculation credits apply.
Study Abroad Program courses completed prior to matriculation at Duke DO NOT TRANSFER.
English composition courses DO NOT TRANSFER (Duke's University Writing course is required of all students).
Mathematics courses below calculus DO NOT TRANSFER; calculus courses must be at the Duke level to transfer.
A maximum of two courses taken by extension may transfer.
Prematriculation credits are not given Area of Knowledge or Mode of Inquiry codes and may not be used to fulfill curriculum requirements or continuation requirements.

Students who are interested in participating in study abroad programs should contact Global Education for Undergraduate Students .

Not all Duke graduate/professional schools grant transfer credit. Consult with your school for policies and procedures regarding transfer credit.

If you are considering taking a course at another college or university and hope to transfer it to your Duke academic record, read the information on transfer credit as found in Trinity's T-Reqs or Pratt's Policies and Procedures before confirming your plans.

Once you have confirmed your intention to move forward, do the following:

Pick up a "Tentative Approval of Courses" form from your Academic Dean.
an official description of the course(s) you propose to take
a copy of the course schedule bulletin from the institution you will be attending that clearly indicates the meeting times and days for the course, along with a copy of the academic calendar
Secure approval of content by presenting the "Tentative Approval of Courses" form and the assembled supporting documentation to the appropriate Director of Undergraduate Studies (DUS) for their review. The DUS will sign the form if the content of the course is deemed equivalent to a Duke course.
Bring the signed "Tentative Approval of Courses" form, along with the supporting documentation, to your academic dean's office. The dean will review your materials to ensure that the course is equivalent to a Duke "semester course credit" and will specify the amount of credit that can be transferred to Duke upon completion of the course. *When your academic dean signs the "Tentative Approval of Courses" form, the pre-approval process is complete.
Complete the approved course(s) at the visited institution and arrange for the visited institution to send an official electronic or hard-copy transcript directly to the Office of the University Registrar. Hard copies must be sent in a sealed envelope.
You must earn a C- or better to receive Duke credit for work completed at another US university. Your grade, however, will not be recorded at Duke and will not be included in your GPA.

For a more detailed look at transfer credit and the various forms needed, go to Pratt Policies & Procedures or Trinity T-Reqs .

If you plan on studying abroad, contact the Global Education Office for Undergraduates .

If you took college courses in your junior or senior year of high school and want them to be on your Duke record, read the information regarding Prematriculation Credit to see what is required.

Transfer Credit Policies

To be eligible for transfer credit, an approved course must be taken at an approved college and completed with a grade of C or better.

We don’t require transfer students to have taken any specific courses in the past. Instead, we offer general guidelines to prepare you for a successful transition. As part of our application review process, we evaluate your courses from other schools and institutions. If you’re admitted, you’ll receive a preliminary assessment that shows an estimate of your accepted credits. Once you enroll, you’ll begin an official credit evaluation.

Transfer Credit Guidelines

Choose a tab below for more information about our transfer credit policies. While these don’t replace our official credit evaluation, you can use them as general guidelines during the transfer process. Understanding our transfer credit policies can make the transfer process easier for you and your family.

General Guidelines for Transferring Credits

Non-transferable courses, school partnerships, credit transfer faqs.

Visit your undergraduate department website or the academic catalogue in the Krieger School of Arts & Sciences or Whiting School of Engineering to learn more about the courses our students take.

General Transfer Credit Policies

Generally, your credits will transfer if they’re from an approved course, taken at an approved college, and completed with a grade of C or better.
Pass/fail and ungraded courses may receive credit, as long as your school provides a written statement that your mark represents a grade of C or better.
You may transfer credit for approved courses at a community college only if you took them before you started at Hopkins.
You may receive a maximum of 6 credits for courses in areas that aren’t covered by programs at Hopkins.

Krieger School of Arts & Sciences Transfer Credit Policies

Natural sciences.

A math course at the Calculus I level (or higher) and an introductory and intermediate science course with a lab in a related field.
Additional introductory and intermediate science courses with labs (if you’re a junior transfer student).

SOCIAL AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES

A math course at the statistics or calculus level, and at least one prior course in a related field.
At least one prior course in a related field.

Whiting School of Engineering Transfer Credit Policies

General guidelines for all engineering majors.

Introductory and intermediate courses in calculus, chemistry, and physics with labs.

Junior Transfers

Advanced courses in higher levels of mathematics, such as Calculus III, Linear Algebra, or Differential Equations.
Major-specific courses to demonstrate your readiness in the engineering discipline.

We’ll review the below courses on a case-by-case basis and notify you if your courses are eligible for transfer credits.

Physical Education or Personal Health and Wellness Courses

A maximum of 6 credits in the fields of nutrition, dietetics, or kinesiology, if these courses were part of a curriculum leading to a college degree.

College Orientation, Study Skills, or Career Development Courses

Courses that are in-depth studies of career paths within a field of study, and psychology courses in career counseling or learning theory.

Math Courses Below the Pre-Calculus Level

Most introductory statistics courses, and one course designed to review all necessary background for calculus, including the rate of change of a function.

Theology Courses

Comparative religion courses or other religion courses that study religion from an academic viewpoint.

Developmental English or English as a Second Language

First-year student composition courses (but not developmental English composition or ESL courses).

Computer Software Courses

Courses that teach some use of software, internet design and security, basic programming in HTML or Java, computer aided-design or introduce field-specific software programs.

Independent Study, Research, or Internship

Hybrid courses that include lectures and graded assignments along with practical experiences.

Trade Skill Courses

We’re unable to transfer courses that are part of an educational program leading to a specific trade, like automotive repair, culinary arts, and similar courses.

We partner with the State of Maryland to ease the process of transferring into certain programs.

Computer and Electrical Engineering

The Whiting School of Engineering participates in a program developed by the State of Maryland to ease the process of transferring into computer and electrical engineering programs as a junior. If you complete two years of study and are awarded a state-approved Associate of Science in Engineering (ASE) degree from a Maryland community college, you’ll be evaluated for admission to Hopkins under the standard transfer student process. Admission to Hopkins is competitive and not guaranteed.

If you’re admitted under this program and pursue a B.S. in Electrical Engineering or a B.S. in Computer Engineering, Hopkins will accept your ASE as a block of credits totaling at least 60 credits. The Electrical and Computer Engineering programs at Hopkins have a specific “breadth and depth” requirement as part of the broader humanities/social sciences distribution requirements. Courses taken as part of the ASE will not count towards the “depth” component, as it requires some coursework be completed at the upper level.

Below, you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions about the transfer credit process. If you have a question and don’t see it here, reach out to [email protected] .

Do my courses have to match a course taught at Hopkins?

Transfer courses don’t have to match existing Hopkins courses, but transfer courses should cover topics that are broadly defined as part of the Hopkins curriculum. For example, we do not regularly offer a course on science-fiction films. But since this is a film studies course and we have a major in Film and Media Studies, this course would likely be eligible for transfer.

Who determines if my credits are transferable?

Advisers from the appropriate Hopkins advising office, along with faculty members, determine which courses are eligible for transfer credit toward the number of credits required for graduation.

How many credits can I transfer?

Arts and Sciences transfer students are allowed to transfer up to 60 credits initially. Engineering transfer students are allowed to transfer a higher number if necessary. Please keep in mind that we require transfer students to complete 60 credits at Hopkins.

Can I transfer more credits later?

After starting at Hopkins, you can transfer up to an additional 12 credits (following the same guidelines as if you’d matriculated as a first-year student). Even with these additional credits, we still require that you complete 60 credits at Hopkins.

When will I receive an evaluation of my transferrable credits?

If you’re admitted, you’ll receive a preliminary credit assessment with your offer of admission. Once you enroll, you’ll be required to submit course descriptions and/or syllabi to the appropriate advising office to begin your official credit evaluation. We’ll provide additional information to help you through this process.

Will I receive credits for AP/IB/A-Level tests?

If you have an official score report sent directly from the College Board or another agency, we’ll award you credit for the exam scores that we accept. Learn more about our external credit policies in the latest Academic Catalogue .

Can writing-intensive courses transfer?

As part of the transfer evaluation process, you’ll receive guidance about the process for transferring writing-intensive courses.

How will the credits I have earned at my current school be evaluated?

Credit evaluations are performed by the Office of Academic Advising (Arts and Sciences) or the Office of Academic Affairs (Engineering). If you’re admitted, you’ll get a preliminary credit assessment on your decision release site. To receive credit for courses, we require a grade of C or better in courses comparable in content to those offered at Hopkins. Only courses from an accredited college or university are accepted. One of our academic advisers will finalize your credit evaluation after you’ve officially accepted your spot at the university.

Deadlines & Requirements

We have a list of application deadlines, requirements, and resources to help you through the transfer process.

Transfer FAQs

Find answers to our most common questions about the transfer process, application requirements, and applying for financial aid.

Quick Links:

Majors, Minors & Programs
Application Deadlines & Requirements
College Planning Guide

LET US HELP

Welcome to Capella

Select your program and we'll help guide you through important information as you prepare for the application process.

FIND YOUR PROGRAM

Connect with us

A team of dedicated enrollment counselors is standing by, ready to answer your questions and help you get started.

Capella University Blog
PhD/Doctorate

Can I transfer credits into a doctoral program?

January 8, 2020

When considering a doctoral program at Capella University, many students wonder whether previous academic credits can be applied toward the doctoral degree to save time and cost.

Kelly Brooks, Capellaâs registrar, and Pete Woxland, supervisor of Admissions and Records Operations, provide answers to frequently asked questions.

Q. Can I transfer credits into a doctoral program?

A. It really depends on the program as each one has different requirements. In general, any transferred credits have to be directly applied toward the doctoral degree. Many programs allow some applicability of masterâs work if itâs relevant to the doctoral work. A few programs also include open electives at the graduate level, so masters-level courses may be applicable to those requirements as well.

Q. What factors are involved in deciding if credits are transferable?

A. Overall, the credits need to be from an accredited school, with grades of a B- or better on graduate-level courses. The content and credits awarded need to be at least 75% the same as an existing Capella doctoral-level course. But thatâs not a guarantee that a course will be accepted. Some courses canât be transferred, such as program orientation courses, residency, practicum, or internships. Those must be taken through Capella.

Q. What is the process to find out if credits are transferable?

A. First, study the current program catalog. The course descriptions will indicate if transferred credit is accepted. Make sure youâre looking at the current program catalog, as things can change from year to year.

Next, apply to the program youâre interested in. Capella will work with you on transfer credits, but we canât do this until youâve applied for admission. Next, youâll need to fill out a form allowing us to request the official transcript containing the credits you want to transfer. Also, itâs important to know that if you have any holds from your prior school (such as unpaid fees or unfinished coursework), we wonât be able to obtain the transcript until the holds have been cleared.

Once youâve allowed us to request the transcript, the rest of the process is up to Capella. Each transcript will be evaluated within 48 hours after it has been received. If you have multiple transcripts to be evaluated, we will review and update your evaluation as each one arrives.

Q. What is the likelihood of credits being accepted?

A. Capella always strives to maximize transfer credit giving students as many credits as possible toward the doctoral program. But the content must align, and the grades must meet the minimum requirements in order to be used. If a course is not accepted, there may be an option to appeal by providing a syllabus from the course you are hoping to transfer. There are even situations where you may receive more credits than you expected. For example, Capella operates on a quarter-based system, with courses running 10-12 weeks. If you're bringing in credits from a semester-based school with courses that run 15 weeks, those credits translate into a quarter system, so that one-semester credit is equal to one-and-a-half quarter credits.

Q. Any last advice?

A. Talk to your enrollment counselor, and look at the current program catalog for the most up-to-date information to determine where your courses might apply in the transfer.

Learn more about transferring credits to Capella.

Capella University offers PhD and professional doctoral degree programs ranging from business to education and health to technology. Learn more about Capellaâs online doctoral programs .

What are the steps in writing a dissertation?

The difference between a dissertation and doctoral capstone

Start learning today.

Get started on your journey now by connecting with an enrollment counselor. See how Capella may be a good fit for you, and start the application process.

Please Exit Private Browsing Mode

Your internet browser is in private browsing mode. Please turn off private browsing mode if you wish to use this site.

Are you sure you want to cancel?

Graduate Transfer Credit

Can I Transfer in Previously Earned Graduate Credit?

Graduate transfer credit is granted on a case-by-case basis and will be evaluated after acceptance to a graduate level program. To request a graduate transfer credit evaluation you must:

Complete the graduate application process and be accepted into your program
Submit a graduate transfer credit request form

We award graduate transfer credits for courses taken at regionally and specially accredited institutions. Official transcripts, syllabi, and course descriptions will need to be sent directly to the Office of Admissions at the time of application submission. All graduate transfer credit petitions (domestic and international) are made on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the graduate Dean of Academic and Faculty Affairs, and/or designee.

Graduate Transfer Credit Policies

Master’s degree programs allow up to 12 quarter hours of transfer credit (up to four 3-q.h. or three 4-q.h. courses)
Certificate programs allow up to 4 quarter hours of transfer credit (one course)
No transfer credit will be awarded to students in the Doctor of Law and Policy program
For information on advanced graduate credit toward the Doctor of Education program, click here
Minimum course grade acceptable is a grade of B, or 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
Credits must be graduate level
Transfer credits must be no more than five academic years old at the time that the student is admitted to graduate study. Courses older than five years will be accepted only in rare circumstances.
Credits that have been earned to fulfill an academic requirement for a graduate degree, baccalaureate degree, advanced degree, or certificate of advanced studies at another institution are not transferable

Northeastern University’s College of Professional Studies (CPS) is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). It is up to the individual institution to determine whether credit from CPS will be accepted in fulfillment of specific program and/or degree requirements. Students should inquire with the specific institution to determine whether particular credits will be accepted as transfer credit.

Let's Go For Your Goals

With our innovation, flexibility, and expertise, we know we can get you there.

Stack Exchange Network

Stack Exchange network consists of 183 Q&A communities including Stack Overflow , the largest, most trusted online community for developers to learn, share their knowledge, and build their careers.

Q&A for work

Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search.

Is transferring to another university an option for an unhappy PhD student?

I've heard of people transferring between graduate schools because of their advisor moving to another school and taking their students with them.

Do students ever transfer for other reasons? If a student isn't happy at the school they choose, could transferring be an option? Presumably they would frame it as something positive such as "turns out I really want to work with Professor X" rather than "I hate my school", but does this ever happen? Is there a certain timeframe in which this is possible? (Assume it's a 5 year PhD program.)

If the answer varies by subject please mention the subject in your answer.

(Context: many friends have told me that if it turns out I'm not happy with my choice, I can always transfer. My impression is that this is actually difficult since many schools don't accept transfer students and in any case not being able to stick with a program looks bad -- but I don't have evidence either way so wanted to ask people who are in academia. Of course the ideal would be to pick a school one is happy with in the first place!)

graduate-school
transfer-student

6 I know "transfers" of two kinds: 1) starting a new PhD program 2) formally being enrolled and one place but de facto collaborating a lot with another place. Sadly, one of the biggest pains in doing PhD is that when things aren't working you cannot just change places. – Piotr Migdal Commented Aug 19, 2013 at 0:24
Related: academia.stackexchange.com/questions/23170/… – Mohamed Khamis Commented Jan 1, 2020 at 23:08

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for browse other questions tagged phd graduate-school transfer-student ..

Featured on Meta
Preventing unauthorized automated access to the network
User activation: Learnings and opportunities
Join Stack Overflow’s CEO and me for the first Stack IRL Community Event in...

Hot Network Questions

Can I redeem myself with a better research paper if my thesis sucks?
Where is this NPC's voice coming from?
Do early termination fees hold up in court?
White (king and 2 bishops) vs Black (king and 1 knight). White to play and mate in 2
On a glassed landmass, how long would it take for plants to grow?
Is this a balanced way to implement the "sparks" spell from Skyrim into D&D?
is it okay to mock a database when writing unit test?
Easily unload gravel from pickup truck
Randomly color the words
Do mathematicians care about the validity ("truth") of the axioms?
Is it ethical to edit grammar, spelling, and wording errors in survey questions after the survey has been administered, prior to publication?
In big band horn parts, should I write double flats (sharps) or the enharmonic equivalent?
Why would an ocean world prevent the creation of ocean bases but allow ships?
why `tcpdump -i any` can't capture unicast traffic in br0(linux bridge) but it works while `tcpdump -i br0` at the same time
What is the name for this BC-BE back-to-back transistor configuration?
How do you measure exactly 31 minutes by burning the ropes?
If a 'fire temple' was built in a gigantic city, with many huge perpetual flames inside, how could they keep smoke from bothering non-worshippers?
Why do evacuations result in so many injuries?
YA sci fi book, tower on a planet with a destructive wind
If Voyager is still an active NASA spacecraft, does it have a flight director? Is that a part time job?
What happened with the 31.5 ft giant in Jubbulpore district (now Jabalpur), India, August 8, 1934?
Does copying files from one drive to another also copy previously deleted data from the drive one?
Help with unidentified character denoting temperature, 19th century thermodynamics
Are logic and mathematics the only fields in which certainty (proof) can be obtained?

Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Affairs

Graduate Handbook

Transfer credits/dual credit use, transfer credit policy link to section.

Graduate-level coursework taken prior to matriculation in a graduate degree program is classified as possible transfer work. Limits on transfer credits are set at the program level. Credit hours may be accepted toward degree requirements if the subjects taken form an integral part of the proposed program of study and if taken within five years of the date of matriculation with a grade of B or higher as interpreted in this University.

Requests for transfer credit must have the approval of the department and AS&E dean of graduate education and postdoctoral affairs. Similarly, permission to take work at another institution for transfer credit after matriculation in a graduate program must be approved in advance by the AS&E dean of graduate education and postdoctoral affairs. Credit hours already applied to two degrees, whether at the University of Rochester or elsewhere, cannot be applied to a third degree at the University.

For additional information, please review the Graduate Studies Bulletin .

Policy for Transferring in Credits Toward a PhD Link to section

Arts, Sciences & Engineering (AS&E) allows up to 30 credit hours of acceptable graduate work taken at this or another university to be transferred toward the 90-credit requirement for the doctoral degree. All transfer credits must not have been used as part of an undergraduate degree program and require the approval of the program (either the director of graduate studies or the chair) and the AS&E dean of graduate education and postdoctoral affairs in order to be applied to a PhD program of study.

Note that programs may have their own requirements or guidelines that limit the number of credits they will accept toward the degree. Any program-specific policy that restricts the number of credits to fewer than 30 supersedes this policy.

Policy for Transferring in Credits Toward a Master’s Degree Link to section

Arts, Sciences & Engineering allows no more than 10 credits taken prior to matriculation in a graduate program to be transferred in for the master’s degree program of study free of charge.

If a student has completed an advanced certificate at the University of Rochester in the same field as the master’s degree, with departmental approval, those credits may transfer toward the master’s program without counting toward the 10-credit limit.

All transfer credits must not have been used as part of the undergraduate degree program and require approval of the program (either the director of graduate studies or the chair) and the AS&E dean of graduate education and postdoctoral affairs in order to be applied to a graduate program of study.

Note that programs have their own requirements beyond completion of credit hours, such as distribution requirements, TA requirements, and specific work toward the exit exam or essay that the student must complete in order to earn a master’s degree. Students are encouraged to meet early in their planning process with the program’s graduate coordinator and/or director of graduate studies in order to devise a program of study that will meet all the requirements for the degree.

Policy for Transferring in Credits Toward an Advanced Certificate Link to section

Arts, Sciences & Engineering allows no more than four credits taken prior to matriculation in a graduate program to be transferred in for the certificate program free of charge.

If a student wishes to transfer in more than four credits for courses taken prior to matriculation in a graduate program, the student must pay for these credits. The cost shall be based on the per-credit tuition rate at the time the credit transfer is requested, and any graduate tuition scholarship that has been provided to the student shall be applied to this total tuition cost.

Double Master’s Policy Link to section

Policy for using overlapping courses for two master’s degrees in arts, sciences & engineering link to section.

AS&E allows up to 10 credits to be used to satisfy the degree requirements for two distinct master’s degree programs. Students may petition for additional overlapped credits in their degree programs, but such petitions require the approval of both departments offering the degree programs as well as the AS&E dean of graduate education and postdoctoral affairs.

Any course used to satisfy the degree requirements for two master’s programs may not, under any circumstances, be used to satisfy the degree requirements for an additional master’s program or for a PhD program at the University of Rochester, as University regulations limit the application of course credits to, at most, two graduate programs.

Transfer Your Credit to UW-Madison

Transfer credit can be awarded to any admitted undergraduate student who has completed coursework at a college or university. Once you are admitted, we will begin working on an evaluation of your transfer credits and will email you when your evaluation is available to view in your Student Center.

Jump to FAQs

Transfer Credit Guidelines

Credit is generally awarded for college-level coursework completed at institutions accredited by a regional or national accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Foreign institutions must be recognized by the Ministry of Education in that country. Courses must be similar in nature, level, and content to a course in our undergraduate curriculum and applicable to one of our academic programs. Continuing education courses, graduate-level courses, and courses that are remedial, technical, vocational, or doctrinal in nature are not transferable.

Students who take college courses prior to high school graduation (this includes dual enrollment) will receive advanced credit at UW–Madison as long as the credit is: 1) transferable, 2) earned at an accredited college, and 3) listed on an official transcript generated by the college.

To be awarded credit at UW–Madison, enrolling undergraduate students must have their official college-level transcript(s) sent to the Office of Admissions and Recruitment.

Electronic transcripts must be sent through a secure document sending service to [email protected] . Transcripts sent through email, as an attachment, will not be accepted as official. Paper transcripts sent to the Office of Admissions must bear an official school seal or be printed on the school’s custom watermarked/security paper.

Students taking courses at a UW System school or Wisconsin Technical College may consult Transferology to determine exactly how credit will be awarded.

Transfer Course Equivalencies

If undergraduates would like to view how some of their courses may transfer to UW–Madison, use Transferology .

Depending on the college(s) they have attended and courses they have taken (or plan to take), transfer equivalents may be listed in Transferology, an online transfer equivalency database.

Using Transferology

If you are encountering technical or accessibility issues with Transferology (e.g. Error 403), please contact Transferology Support at [email protected] and briefly identify the problem specifics, i.e. error code or error message.
For advisors only, visit this KB to learn about access to and use of TransferologyLab, an administrative portal.

Military Credit

The University of Wisconsin-Madison thanks you for your service and in many cases can award transfer credit for education you received while in the military. Evaluation of transfer credit adheres to the guidelines in the Joint Statement on the Transfer and Award of Credit developed by the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO), the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), and the American Council on Education (ACE). Transfer credit may include direct course equivalencies and/or departmental electives for work that is similar in nature, level, and content to a course in our undergraduate curriculum. However, the majority of military credit will transfer as general electives and may not reduce your time to degree. A large number of general electives could negatively impact your financial aid eligibility and your admission to competitive programs with credit limits.

This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.

Joint Services Transcripts

Academic credit from the JST will be awarded based on American Council on Education (ACE) recommendations and on the nature, level, and content as compared to a course in UW–Madison’s undergraduate curriculum. To have your credits reviewed, please request an official copy of your Joint Services Transcript be sent to UW–Madison.

Community College of the Air Force

Academic credit from the CCAF transcript will be awarded based on the nature, level, and content as compared to a course in UW–Madison’s undergraduate curriculum.

Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center (DLIFLC)

Associate or baccalaureate level academic credit from the DLIFLC transcript will be awarded based on the nature, level, and content as compared to a course in UW–Madison’s undergraduate curriculum.

DANTES Standardized Subject Tests (DSSTs)

We do not award transfer credit for DSSTs.

Number of Credits and Conversion Rate

The University of Wisconsin-Madison follows a semester calendar . Credit values from institutions on a different academic calendar or within a different educational system may need to be converted to semester credits when transferred to UW-Madison. Transfer credit values are awarded to the hundredths place (i.e., 3.35). Credit conversion practices at UW-Madison align with the university’s Credit Hour Policy and adhere to the American Association of Collegiate Registrar and Admission Officers (AACRAO) Transfer Credit Best Practices .

Quarter Calendar Credit Hours within the United States

Credit values from quarter calendar institutions in the United States are generally two-thirds of a semester credit hour. Transfer credit values from these institutions will be converted to semester credit by multiplying the number of quarter credits by .67.


1 credit	.67 credits
2 credits	1.34 credits
3 credits	2.01 credits
4 credits	2.68 credits
5 credits	3.35 credits
6 credits	4.02 credits

Institutions outside the United States

Credit conversion rates can vary by educational system and institution. Each transcript is assessed individually to determine a credit conversion rate. Courses without credits on official transcripts may not transfer to the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Transferability

How will my courses transfer.

We award transfer credit for college-level, baccalaureate courses (not remedial, technical, doctrinal, vocational, or continuing education/graduate level courses) that apply to academic programs offered by UW-Madison and are taken at a degree-granting, regionally accredited college or university. If the course content and level are similar to a UW-Madison course, a direct equivalent may be given as transfer credit. If it is not similar enough, elective credits in the relevant department will be granted. We award credit for coursework with a grade of D or higher. Please note that elective credits are transfer credits that can fulfill various degree requirements.

What is the maximum number of transferable credits?

Baccalaureate Institutions – There is no credit limit on transferable credits from a four-year college.
Non-Baccalaureate Institutions – A maximum of 72 transferable semester credits from two-year colleges can count toward the total degree credit requirement (usually 120). Courses taken beyond 72 credits can still satisfy course, breadth, level, or general education requirements. Example scenario, a student seeking to B.S. in Biology has already completed 72 credits from a 2-year. The student then completes a 3-credit organic chemistry course that is equivalent to UW CHEM 343 – Organic Chemistry. Even though the organic chemistry course was taken after 72-credits, the course will still satisfy the CHEM 343 major requirement, count as 3 credits of Physical Science breadth, and 3 credits of intermediate level. However, only 72 credits instead of 75 credits will apply to the 120 degree credit requirement for a B.S. in College of Letters & Science.
Current UW Students – If you plan to combine transfer credits along with UW-Madison credits that exceeds 18 total credits in a Fall/Spring term, or 12 credits in the Summer term, you are encouraged to contact your academic dean’s office to see if a credit overload exception is likely to be considered. L&S students can get information and make requests for term credit overloads on the L&S Policies and Forms site .

What is the difference between equivalent and elective credit?

Transfer courses with descriptions that closely match the descriptions of courses taught at UW–Madison will generally transfer as direct course equivalent credits. For example, an introductory macroeconomics course at your previous institution might transfer as our Econ 102 Principles of Macroeconomics. Transfer courses that don’t have direct course equivalents at UW–Madison will transfer as elective credits within the appropriate academic department. For example, a course on the geography of Hawaii would transfer as geography elective credits because UW–Madison does not offer a course with that particular content. Elective credits count toward a degree in the same way that a direct course equivalent does.

How will my credit transfer if my course(s) was graded Pass/Fail?

Students who earn college-level degree credit with “Pass” grades will have their credits evaluated for transfer.

How are transferred credits applied to my degree requirements?

Specific degree requirements differ among the various UW–Madison schools and colleges . Transfer credit applies toward degree requirements appropriately, depending on which major and/or degree you intend to complete. To learn more about degree and major requirements, consult the Guide or the appropriate undergraduate major .

Are grades from my previous institution included in my UW-Madison GPA?

No. Your previous grades are not calculated into your UW-Madison GPA.

Can I get credit for military basic training?

Yes, we will award some credit from a Joint Services transcript (JST) or from Community College of the Air Force (CCAF).

Can retroactive language credit transfer to UW–Madison?

UW–Madison allows you to earn retroactive (retro) credits for prior work completed in a foreign language. In order for retro credit to be transferable, the following requirements must be met: 1) the course must be designated appropriate for earning retro credits by the department; 2) in addition to the qualifying course, the retro credit must be listed on a final, official transcript; 3) you must obtain a grade of “B” or better in the qualifying course; 4) the qualifying course must be the first college course taken in the language; and 5) the course must be completed within the first 30 credits of your college work.

How will my credits transfer if I attend a non-semester institution?

We will conduct a credit conversion to UW-Madison semester hours. The number of credits taken at your previous institution will not always be equal to the number of credits taken at your previous institution.

Do AP, IB, CLEP, A-Level credits transfer to UW-Madison?

UW–Madison does grant advanced credit for the successful completion of some AP, IB, A-Level, and CLEP exams. Please note that AP and IB must be completed while in high school. CLEP exams must be completed before completing 16 semester hours of college credit. Students can find detailed information on how a score will be awarded credit on our website.

Are my credits/transcripts too old to earn college credit?

No, credits do not expire.

Can I earn college credit for life experiences?

Do college or test credits affect what placement tests i am required to take.

Regardless of transfer credit (from college courses or credit by exam), all incoming Freshmen are required to take the English and Math placement tests. A foreign language placement test is optional.

Placement tests for transfer students are determined upon completion of transfer credit evaluation. Students should carefully read the important notes section on their transfer credit evaluation for placement test information.

Can I receive transfer credit for Project Lead the Way courses?

What is doctrinal coursework.

Doctrinal coursework promotes an ideological, political, and/or religious doctrine. Doctrinal coursework is commonly found at private, religious institutions and in countries that enforce ideological political education. As noted in our Transfer Credit Policy, doctrinal coursework will not receive transfer credit.

The following are examples of coursework that may be considered ‘doctrinal’:

Learn & Teach in Latter Days
Marxism/Marxist Theory (when taught in Marxist countries)
Mao Zedong Theory
Missionary Preparation
Moral Education/Cultivation
Outline of Modern Chinese History
Situation and Policy
Theoretical System of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics
Social Catholic Teaching
Social Practice of Ideology and Politics

Can I request to have transfer courses/credits removed from my UW-Madison record?

Test credits , including those from Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and College Level Examination Program (CLEP) examinations, can be removed from your UW-Madison record. You will need to send a request from your wisc.edu email to [email protected] . In your email, please include your Campus ID number and the name(s) of the test(s) you would like to have removed from your record.

Course credits (including A-Levels) earned through another college cannot be removed. All courses/credits earned from other colleges/universities are accounted for on UW-Madison undergraduate student records. This includes any college coursework completed prior to attending UW-Madison or taken concurrently while at UW-Madison.

How it works

What will i need to do to get my credits transferred.

You must submit an official transcript that lists both the course(s) and grade(s) to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at UW-Madison. It is recommended that it be sent through a secure electronic sending service such as Parchment, Naviance or Credentials Solutions. The previous institution that you attended will likely have instructions on their website for how to request a transcript from their institution. It must first be processed by the Office of Admissions and Recruitment before it can be evaluated by the Credit Evaluation Services.

How do I submit a transcript?

Electronic transcripts must be sent through a secure document sending service to [email protected]. Transcripts sent through email, as an attachment, will not be accepted as official. Paper transcripts sent to the Office of Admissions and Recruitment must bear an official school seal or be printed on the school’s custom watermarked/security paper.

Can I get my courses pre-equated?

Unfortunately, we are not able to pre-equate transfer courses for prospective students or for courses taken during the fall and spring semester for enrolled students. However, you may wish to consult Transferology to see if we have previously equated a course you are interested in taking.

Can I request a reevaluation of transfer credit?

Yes. You can request a course to be re-evaluated, but not the number of credits. In order to have it reevaluated, please visit the Course Re-Evaluation Request page and fill out the form. Follow the instructions carefully. It can take 4-6 weeks in order to process a re-evaluation request.

When will my credit evaluation be completed?

Incoming transfer students will receive a full transfer credit evaluation after being admitted to the University. You will receive your official evaluation of transfer credits by your SOAR date. We make every attempt to complete an evaluation quickly after a student receives an admission decision.

For current UW-Madison students, it can take up to 4-6 weeks after the Office of Admissions receives the transcript for transfer credit to be posted to your student record.

How will I view my credit evaluation?

The transfer credit evaluation will be visible in your Student Center through either the Admissions tile on your Applicant Homepage, or through the Academic Records tile on the Student Center Homepage.

Where can I get help reading my credit evaluation?

The basics of your credit evaluation are explained in the Reading Your Credit Evaluation KB . You will get assistance understanding how your transfer credit applies to your degree when you attend the Student Orientation, Advising, and Registration (SOAR) program during the break before the next semester begins.

Study Abroad

What if i study abroad before enrolling at uw-madison.

If you study abroad prior to enrolling at UW-Madison, you must submit your official transcript for that work to the Admissions Office. It will be processed along with any other transfer credit you have.

What if I study abroad through a non UW-Madison study abroad program or take courses at a foreign institution?

If you are considering taking courses through a non UW-Madison program after enrolling at UW-Madison, please review the information on the Credit Resources page regarding non-approved study abroad programs.

Please note that summer and short winter courses taken at Chinese universities are not eligible for transfer credit.

How will the credit I earn while studying abroad transfer to UW-Madison?

If you study abroad through a UW-Madison program, you will earn “residence” credit and can even graduate abroad. The courses, grades, and credits you earn abroad will be recorded on your transcript as UW-Madison study abroad work.

If you study abroad through a non UW-Madison program, coursework will generally transfer as long as it is a university-level course similar in content to courses offered at UW-Madison. The courses must be taken at an accredited, recognized institution. Recognition of institutions varies, depending upon the governmental policies of a given country. We will convert foreign credits/hours to U.S. semester credits; you should not assume that your foreign credits/hours will transfer at face value. Grades earned at non UW-Madison study abroad programs will not transfer. Instead, courses will generally transfer as elective or course credits. However, you should not expect to satisfy specific requirements, especially in the areas of foreign language, liberal arts, and general education requirements.

Before studying abroad, we highly recommend that you consult with your academic advisor to develop an academic plan appropriate for your major and study abroad program.

How do I submit my non UW-Madison study abroad courses to receive transfer credit?

Send an official transcript when the course work is completed. Electronic transcripts must be sent through a secure document sending service to [email protected] . Transcripts sent through email, as an attachment, will not be accepted as official. Paper transcripts sent to the Office of Admissions must bear an official school seal or be printed on the school’s custom watermarked/security paper. In order to receive transfer credit, the non-approved study abroad program must issue an official transcript from an accredited tertiary-level, degree-granting institution. If you are participating in a program through a study abroad provider (CIEE, CEA, IES, etc), you must obtain an official transcript from the provider’s “School of Record”. Note that some schools of record charge an additional fee to issue an official transcript. You will need to confirm with the host institution or study abroad program that they will provide a transcript that meets these standards.

How do I get approval forms signed for my non-approved program?

Your program may ask for approval from your home institution. You should let program staff know that you are doing this program independently of UW-Madison. If you need verification of your UW-Madison enrollment for your program application, you can obtain an official PDF letter certifying enrollment status (full-time, half-time, etc.) through Academic Records in your Student Center. The PDF version is an official letter. Forms requiring verification of academic or disciplinary standing can be sent to the Registrar’s Office at [email protected].

UW-Madison study abroad staff and academic advisors will not sign these forms.

IMAGES

Demystifying Credit Transfers and Recognition of Prior Learning
Fillable Online wagner nyu PH.D. TRANSFER CREDIT FORM
Graduate Council: Graduate Orientation
Evaluation of Transfer Credits
How to prepare yourself for PhD in USA ? Eligibility, Credit Transfer
Can You Transfer Master Credits To PhD?

VIDEO

Custom Parental Advisory Tutorial
How I settle a Huge DEBT (40 lakhs) in 12 Months!
{PMV} Lullaby For a Princess
PhD research work transfer process- How to transfer PhD research work from one university to another
Credit Transfer course induction Programme
#INVESTMENT TAX CREDIT (ITC): ITS BENEFITS FOR ECONOMY & PROCESS OF FINDING

COMMENTS

Top 7 Doctoral Programs That Accept Transfer Credits
Purdue Global University. The PhD program at Purdue Global University requires an additional 60 credit hours beyond a master's degree. It allows a maximum of 30 credits (50% of the master's degree courses) to be transferred. Students have a time limit of six years to complete the degree.
Graduate Transfer Credit
Degree Progress will include transfer coursework in the student record if the work meets the following criteria: Transfer institution is regionally accredited in the U.S. to grant graduate degrees. Courses are graded at least a 3.0 (B) on a 4.0 grading scale. Courses are graduate level at the transfer institution and constitute a fair and ...
Top Graduate Schools That Accept Transfer Credits 2024
If you're transferring into a graduate program, at Northcentral University, you may be in luck. Transfer credits must have been earned within 7 years prior to acceptance at Northcentral and credits must be earned with a grade of B or better. Transfer credits may be able to apply to both core courses and elective program requirements, pending ...
Doctorate Program That Accepts Transfer Credits
Earning your applied doctorate at Franklin takes about three years -- including your dissertation. Finish even faster (and save money) when you transfer up to 33 previously earned credit hours. Nearly half of our doctoral students take advantage of our generous transfer credit policy -- and our transfer-friendly process makes it seamless to get ...
How to Transfer in Grad School: Tips for Master's & PhD Students
How to Transfer College Credits in Grad School FAQs & Tips for Master's & PhD Students. Many students know that transferring as an undergrad is fairly common -- over one third of undergraduate students transfer schools at least once over six years -- but transferring graduate schools doesn't seem to get the same attention. This can make figuring out how to transfer at the graduate level a bit ...
Credit Transfer (PG)
Credit Transfer (PG) Credit transfer may be granted to students in recognition of studies completed elsewhere at an appropriate level as recognized by the University. Students applying for credit transfer must provide evidence, such as a transcript and course syllabus, to illustrate that a course is equivalent in content and level to another ...
How to Transfer Graduate School: 7 Key Steps
4. Write a Strong Statement. While this depends on the institution, students will usually need to go through the normal application process when transferring graduate schools. This often includes writing a personal statement that outlines their experience/qualifications and explains their motivations.
Transfer credit
If the Examiner has awarded credit with a specific MIT subject number, HASS Distribution credit, or has recommended general HASS Elective credit, email [email protected] for a final signature. Submit your approved form to [email protected]. Transfer students — submit your completed form to Room 7-104.
Credit Transfer/Exemption Policy
There is no limit to the transfer of credit for relevant courses that have not been used towards another degree (i.e. Bachelor's, Master's, PhD, Doctorate; excludes Graduate Diploma) at NUS or elsewhere. For relevant courses that have been credited towards another degree elsewhere, up to 50% of the units required in the coursework component of ...
Credit transfer from Masters to PhD in a different University
Some of them may transfer, it depends on the department. For example, my department transfers a blanket N credits for PhD students who come with a masters degree. That is, instead of evaluating each individual class on the masters transcript, they just apply N credits of transfer credit towards the PhD credit requirement.
Transfer Credit
Transfer Credit Services (TCS) provides accurate and timely information about undergraduate transfer policies and procedures to transfer advisors and students. Additionally, TCS oversees and supports the undergraduate transfer evaluation process, which includes: determining the acceptability of courses, awarding credit by the University of Maryland, and maintaining the database of transfer ...
Transferring Credit
Credit from one graduate degree program to another graduate degree program within the Graduate College at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Credit completed outside the Graduate College. See the Graduate College Handbook for details on Transfer of Credit. Both types require completion of a graduate student petition.
Transferring Credit
Petitions for transfer credit must first be approved by the student's graduate program and then submitted to GEPA for approval. No more than one-half the total units required for a master's degree may be transferred. A student may petition to transfer courses completed while in graduate standing at another UC campus (including UC San Diego ...
Credit Transfer Application Process (UG)
The processing time for an application is at least one month. Students may check the details of the results from the Student Information System (SIS) or the Credit Transfer Application System. Students may only apply for credit transfer to HKUST courses which are active in the academic term when the transfer credits are articulated (for ...
Graduate Residency Transfer Credit
The J.D. program permits 30 transfer units (2.0 terms). The application for Graduate Residency Transfer Credit is available in Axess: My Academics > Petitions & Forms > Student eForms. Once complete, it is reviewed by your department and the Registrar's Office. Any approved transfer credit is converted into quarter units and then posted to ...
Transfer Credit
Complete the approved course (s) at the visited institution and arrange for the visited institution to send an electronic or hard-copy transcript directly to the Office of the University Registrar. Hard copies must be sent in a. You must earn a C- or better to receive Duke credit for work completed at another US university.
Transfer Credit Policies
Generally, your credits will transfer if they're from an approved course, taken at an approved college, and completed with a grade of C or better. Pass/fail and ungraded courses may receive credit, as long as your school provides a written statement that your mark represents a grade of C or better. You may transfer credit for approved courses ...
Can I transfer credits into a doctoral program?
A. Overall, the credits need to be from an accredited school, with grades of a B- or better on graduate-level courses. The content and credits awarded need to be at least 75% the same as an existing Capella doctoral-level course. But that's not a guarantee that a course will be accepted. Some courses can't be transferred, such as program ...
Graduate Transfer Credit
Graduate Transfer Credit Policies. Master's degree programs allow up to 12 quarter hours of transfer credit (up to four 3-q.h. or three 4-q.h. courses) Certificate programs allow up to 4 quarter hours of transfer credit (one course) No transfer credit will be awarded to students in the Doctor of Law and Policy program.
graduate school
Probably the most painless time to transfer is immediately after completing a master's degree. (I did this.) That's a natural time to switch research directions, and many PhD programs allow their students to pick up a Master's degree along the way, even if they don't have a separate Master's program. (Mine didn't.)
Transfer Credits/Dual Credit Use : Academic : Graduate Handbook
Arts, Sciences & Engineering (AS&E) allows up to 30 credit hours of acceptable graduate work taken at this or another university to be transferred toward the 90-credit requirement for the doctoral degree. All transfer credits must not have been used as part of an undergraduate degree program and require the approval of the program (either the ...
Transfer Your Credit to UW-Madison
We award transfer credit for college-level, baccalaureate courses (not remedial, technical, doctrinal, vocational, or continuing education/graduate level courses) that apply to academic programs offered by UW-Madison and are taken at a degree-granting, regionally accredited college or university.
PDF Transfer of Credit
Transfer of Credit for Certificate Programs. Transfer credit toward a certificate is limited to 25% of the minimum number of credits required for the certificate. Note that course substitutions and/ or waivers are not accepted for a Specialized Graduate Certificate. Some programs may have more restrictive limits. Contact the unit for details.

Top 7 Doctoral Programs That Accept Transfer Credits

What is a Transfer Credit?

Types of Credit Transferred at Graduate Schools

Previous Doctoral Credit

Master’s-Level Credits

Special Licenses and Certifications

Why Transfer Credit Matters for Your PhD

To Accelerate Your Doctoral Journey

Beyond Time Savings

How To Strategize Your Transfer Credit Success

Know Your Options

Course Evaluation Process

Build Your Case for Transfer

Top 7 Doctoral Programs with Transfer Credit Options

Northcentral University

Purdue Global University

Walden University

Liberty University

Grand Canyon University

Southern New Hampshire University

Franklin University

Factors To Consider Before Transfer Credit Application

Financial Aid and Transfer Credit

Faculty Mentorship

Research Opportunities

Share this:

Discover more from Doctorate Guru

Canice Silas

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

10 Best Online PhD Programs In Nursing for Working Professionals

Easiest PhD Programs to Get Into

10 Most Popular PhD Subjects to Study in the USA

Top 10 Executive Doctorate Degree Programs of 2024

Top 10 Universities Offering Free Honorary Doctorate Degrees Online

Office of Academic Records and Registrar

Records and Transcripts

Registration and Counseling

Faculty and Staff

Coursework Taken at an Institution Based Inside the U.S.

Coursework Taken at an Institution Based Outside the U.S.

Military Education

Need More Information?

Doctorate programs that accept transfer credits

1:1 Transfer Support

Learning Communities

Finish in as Few as 3 Years

Types of Credits That Transfer Toward Your Doctorate

Previous Doctoral Credit

Master's-Level Credits

Free Guide for Transfer Students

Online Doctorate Degrees

Back to College Blog

Associated Sites

How to Transfer College Credits in Grad School FAQs & Tips for Master's & PhD Students

FAQs About Transferring in Graduate School

How to Transfer Grad School Credits

Questions to Ask Before Trying to Transfer Grad Schools

Grad School Transfer Tips

Why You Might Want or Need to Transfer Grad Schools

Alternatives to Transferring Graduate Schools

How to Transfer Graduate School: 7 Key Steps

Why Do Some People Transfer Grad Schools?

How to Transfer Grad School: 7 Easy Steps

1. Understand Your Needs

2. Check the School’s Requirements

3. Pull Together Your Transcripts

I’m Not a Current Student – Can I Still Transfer Graduate Credits?

Will All of My Grad School Credits Transfer?

I Studied Online or Off-Campus – Will My Credits Transfer?

4. Write a Strong Statement

5. Get Recommendation Letters

6. Submit Your Application & Apply for Credit Transfers

How to Use a Transfer Credit Request Form

7. Wait for Approval

Questions to Ask Before Trying to Transfer Grad Schools

Top Tips to Transfer Graduate Schools with Minimal Hassle

Keep Your End Goal in Mind

Ask about Credits for Training and Experience

Only Transfer If It’s a Step Up

It’s Not Always Worth Transferring Credits