How To Transfer Credits To Online College: A Complete Guide
Transferring credits to an online college can save you time, money, and energy — especially if you’ve already completed some college coursework or hold an associate degree. But credit transfers can be confusing if you’re not sure where to begin.
This step-by-step guide walks you through how to transfer credits to an online college and maximize your previous academic work so you don’t have to start from scratch.
Why Transfer Credits to an Online College?
Transferring college credits is a smart move for:
- Students returning to school after a break
- Community college graduates looking to earn a bachelor’s
- Military members or spouses relocating frequently
- Students unhappy with their current college
Online colleges are more transfer-friendly than ever, offering flexible policies that allow students to finish faster and pay less.
Step 1: Gather All Your Transcripts
Before you can transfer credits, you need to collect official transcripts from every college or university you’ve attended — even if it was just one class.
Most colleges require:
- Official transcripts sent directly from your previous school
- Details about course titles, numbers, and credit hours
- Sometimes, syllabi for course content review
If you’ve attended a foreign institution, ask your target college if you’ll need a transcript evaluation by a third-party agency.
Step 2: Check the Online College’s Transfer Policy
Every college has its own rules when it comes to credit transfers. Visit the school’s admissions or registrar page to find:
- Maximum transferable credits (some limit to 60–90 credits)
- Grade requirements (often C or higher)
- Course equivalency tools to see how your credits match
- Credit expiration policies (older credits may be denied)
Some online colleges even offer free transfer credit evaluations before you apply — a great way to see where you stand.
Step 3: Understand What Credits Will Transfer
Not all credits transfer equally. Most online colleges accept:
| Accepted Transfer Types | Usually Accepted? |
|---|---|
| General education courses | Yes |
| Associate degree coursework | Yes |
| Upper-level major courses | Sometimes |
| Remedial or developmental courses | No |
| Vocational or technical credits | Case-by-case |
Pro tip: Regional accreditation matters. Credits from regionally accredited schools are more likely to transfer than those from nationally accredited ones.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Once you’ve confirmed your credits and chosen your online college, go ahead and apply. Be sure to:
- Submit all required transcripts
- Include your transfer credit evaluation if you received one
- Apply for financial aid via FAFSA
- Ask about any transfer student scholarships
Some schools waive application fees or offer special discounts for transfer students.
Step 5: Work with an Academic Advisor
After acceptance, you’ll meet with an advisor who will:
- Review your official credit evaluation
- Help you map out remaining courses
- Suggest the fastest path to graduation
- Recommend online resources like tutoring or tech help
This step ensures you’re getting the most out of your previous academic work and avoiding duplicate classes.
Tips to Maximize Your Transfer Credits
| Tip | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Stick with regionally accredited schools | Better chance of credit acceptance |
| Apply early | Gives more time for transcript review |
| Ask about credit-by-exam options | Like CLEP or DSST, to earn more credits |
| Use articulation agreements | Especially between community colleges and 4-year schools |
| Avoid switching majors late | Courses may no longer align |
FAQs About Transferring Credits Online
Can I transfer credits from 10 years ago?
It depends. Some schools accept older credits, while others have a 5–10 year expiration window, especially for STEM courses.
Will my GPA transfer too?
Your GPA does not transfer, only the credits do. Your new GPA starts fresh at the online college.
What if my credits aren’t accepted?
You can appeal the decision. Provide syllabi, course descriptions, and professor contacts if needed.
Benefits of Transferring Credits to Online College
Transferring into an online college can offer:
- Shorter time to degree completion
- Lower total tuition by skipping unnecessary courses
- Flexible schedules for working students
- 100% online access from anywhere in the world
Many students find they can graduate 6–12 months earlier by maximizing transfer credits.
Transferring credits to an online college is not only possible — it’s often encouraged. With the right preparation and a little research, you can turn your past coursework into real progress toward your degree.
Start by gathering your transcripts, understanding the school’s transfer policy, and working with an advisor. A few smart moves now can save you time, stress, and thousands of dollars down the road.
Whether you’re looking to finish your degree faster or start over with a head start, transferring credits is a proven path to academic and career success.