CreditTransfer

Credit transfer is the process by which academic credits earned at one postsecondary institution are recognized and counted toward the requirements of a degree or certificate at another institution. It commonly occurs in higher education but can also apply to professional or vocational programs. The primary purpose is to support student mobility, reduce redundancy, and shorten time to degree.

The transfer process typically involves the student submitting official transcripts and course descriptions; the receiving institution assesses course content, credit hours or credits (or ECTS), and alignment with program requirements. Some credit may transfer as elective credits, while major or general education requirements may be satisfied if comparable learning outcomes are demonstrated. Many institutions publish articulation agreements that pre-approve certain courses for transfer.

Practices vary by country and institution. In the United States, transfer credits are usually measured in semester credit hours and may be limited by residency requirements or cap on transfer credits; in Europe, credit transfer often uses ECTS credits and accumulation toward degree conferral across borders. Some courses may not transfer due to differences in level, rigor, content, or lack of accreditation. Documentation like syllabi or catalogs may be required to establish equivalence. Prior learning assessment and exams (e.g., AP, CLEP, portfolio) can also earn transfer or exception credits.

Benefits include flexibility, cost savings, and broader access to programs; challenges include inconsistencies across institutions, incomplete transferability, and the administrative burden of evaluation. Ongoing efforts to improve credit portability include standardized credit systems, inter-institutional agreements, and shared data systems for transcripts.