Preparing to transfer college credits: FAQs for adult learners

Whether you took a break from your undergrad studies or you’re looking to build on your community college degree, you’re ready to go back to school. You may be uncertain about the process, but there’s one thing you’re sure about: you want to earn your degree as soon as possible.

At UMass Global, we are experts in meeting the needs of busy adult learners who are highly motivated to finish their degree. Our goal is to get you to graduation as quickly and cost-efficiently as possible.

That’s why we have enrollment coaches, a dedicated Transfer Center, and academic advisors to help you figure out how to transfer colleges as seamlessly and successfully as possible. Felisha Caldeira is one of those advisors, and we enlisted her help to answer some common questions you may have about the credit transfer process.

Answering 11 FAQs about transferring college credits

To help you navigate this sometimes complicated process, we’re covering some of the most common questions about college credit transfers.

1. Can I get college credits for my professional experience?

The answer to this question will vary depending on the school you’re looking into. But if you’re interested in UMass Global, the answer is yes!

Our students have four main ways to turn prior experience into college credits: 

• Transfer community college or other university credits
• Earn credits for military training or service
• Leverage your work experience
• Test out of classes and graduate faster

2. Is it expensive to transfer college credits?

It shouldn’t be, but each school is different. At UMass Global the application and consultation are 100% free for prospective students.

Caldeira has met with thousands of prospective students throughout her time at the university, and not all of them have enrolled.

“There’s no pressure to act once you have all the information,” she explains. “Obviously as advisors we hope you’ll be excited to move forward with us at UMass Global, but there’s no hard feelings if you don’t.”

3. What is the deadline for a transfer student to apply at UMass Global?

The timeline varies by program, but we have a rolling admission process. This means you can apply at any time. Most programs follow an 8-week course schedule.

4. How long does the transfer process typically take?

The process will be unique to each school. When you apply to enroll at UMass Global, our goal is to have it processed within two or three weeks.

5.How do I know if my credits will transfer?

An enrollment coach can help you gather the information you need and provide a general idea of your transfer options. That said, you won’t have an official answer until you complete and submit your application.

After your existing credits are fully evaluated for transfer equivalency, you will meet with an academic advisor who will share with you what credits were accepted. For most courses taken at a regionally accredited institution, credits are transferred in with no issues.

If you’re currently attending a California community college, learn more about the “Degree with a Guarantee” California Community College Transfer Program.

6. Do I need to provide official transcripts in order to transfer credits?

At UMass Global, students can initiate a preliminary evaluation of transfer credits without an official copy of their transcript. However, students are required to submit official transcripts by the end of their first semester if they want to transfer credits.

7. Is it harder to get into college as a transfer student?

It is common for transfer students to worry that their status may limit their chances of gaining acceptance to another school, notes Caldeira. But she assures her prospective students not to worry.

“Any reputable school should welcome transfer students,” she adds. “They are usually highly dedicated people who know what they want and are focused on finishing that degree.”

8. Are there scholarships or financial aid specifically for transfer students?

Yes – as a transfer student, you are eligible to apply for financial aid just as other students are. Also, many schools have partnerships with local community colleges that may provide a discount off your tuition. UMass Global, for example, has many transfer partnerships that are school and program specific.

9. Is there a minimum GPA or number of credits I need in order to transfer?

The specific requirements for transferring may differ from one institution to another, but at UMass Global, we have an inclusive approach that accommodates students at any stage of their academic path. Whether you're just starting out with zero credits or have completed up to 70 credits, you are eligible to apply! Additionally, while GPA is one factor considered for admission, we offer alternative pathways to demonstrate your potential for success. For undergraduate students, there's the "Academic Fresh Start" option, and for graduate programs, you can also gain admission through a portfolio review or if you hold a prior graduate degree.

10. Is there a limit to how many credits I can transfer?

At University of Massachusetts Global, we have a welcoming approach to accepting coursework from a wide range of colleges and universities, without imposing any strict limits on the credits we accept. However, it's important to note that each program has specific residency requirements, which determine the minimum number of credits that must be completed at UMass Global to ensure a comprehensive educational experience. For example, our bachelor's programs typically require 120 credits, with a 30-credit residency requirement. To calculate the maximum number of credits transferable, simply subtract the residency requirement from the total required credits, resulting in a maximum transferable amount of 90 credits in this instance.

11. Do college credits expire?

At the undergraduate level, your college credits will never expire as long as they were earned at a regionally accredited institution.

At the graduate or master’s level, generally your credits must have been earned within the last seven years to be eligible for transfer. However, if you’ve been actively working in your field during that time, there may be some exceptions offered on a case-by-case basis.

Make every credit count at UMass Global

As with any big life decision, choosing to go back to school as an adult can stir up many questions and doubts. But you shouldn’t let those stand in the way of chasing your dreams, according to Caldeira.

“Trust yourself! The work you did is good and can be counted,” she says. “Work with coaches and advisors and push for options – there are many ways to fulfill your academic goals.”

If you’re ready to take the next step, visit the UMass Global Transfer Center to explore more.

To connect with a UMass Global enrollment coach, call +1 (800) 746-0082 or email enroll@umassglobal.edu for support.