When credits don’t transfer, it can feel arbitrary, but most decisions follow consistent rules. This guide explains how colleges evaluate credits, what factors matter most, and how to improve your chances of keeping progress toward your degree.
Colleges aren’t trying to block transfer students. They’re responsible for ensuring:
Transfer decisions are based on how closely your coursework aligns with their degree requirements.
Most transfer decisions come down to four core criteria:
Colleges look at whether a course is:
Lower-level or non-credit courses usually do not transfer toward a degree.
Grades matter. Common policies include:
Even transferable courses may be excluded if grades fall below the threshold.
Accreditation is one of the most important factors.
Credits are more likely to transfer if:
Credits from unaccredited institutions often do not transfer.
Transferability isn’t just about if credits transfer. It’s about how they apply.
Courses may:
Credits that don’t align with your major may slow progress toward graduation.
Elective credit still counts, but it may not move you closer to your degree.
This usually happens when:
Too many electives can increase time and cost.
Credits are often denied because:
Knowing this ahead of time helps you plan smarter.
You can increase transfer success by:
Planning early protects progress later.
Before taking a course, ask:
“Will this course transfer, and how will it apply to my intended degree?”
If possible, get the answer:
Clarity upfront prevents surprises later.
Tuition Covered helps you:
→ Explore transfer-friendly colleges
If you’re early in the process:
Transfer success is built — not guessed.
No. Transfer depends on course level, grade, accreditation, and relevance.
Yes. It’s one of the most common reasons credits are accepted or denied.
Sometimes. Appeals may require syllabi or additional documentation.
They can — if the institution is accredited and the course meets requirements.