Things You Should Know About Transfer Credits

Transfer credits are credits granted by one recognized University or College for the course work you efficiently completed at another institution.

Getting the credits transfer can be straightforward, or, as some will attest, it can become a significant headache. So if you are getting ready to apply to a new school, look into our helpful tips and set yourself up to get as many transfer credits as possible.

Always consult with the institution you’re transferring to.

Remember that it is up to you to do comprehensive research and do your research before deciding on a new school, moving into a new program or studying outside your province. Most post-secondary universities have consultants on campus that can either

(A) tell you which lessons will automatically be acknowledged

(B) Advise you on the information you need to provide to boost your chances of having more or all your credits moved. They are there to help you, so ask, ask, ask!

A “similar” course doesn’t necessarily mean automatic transfer credit.

This is also true if you transfer your credits from one province to another. Include your application with recognized transcripts, course explanations, and a program syllabus. This makes it easier for the school to compare classes you have completed with similar ones they could offer and could help expedite a conclusion about if and how your credits will be moved.

Please don’t believe that the classes you have taken at one institution or in one province meet the requirements of similar courses in another: your Biology 101 may differ enough from theirs that you will have to take their course for those credits.

If you decide to study abroad, ensure your courses will transfer to Canada.

Canadian students who wish to study abroad to complete some of the programs should seek advice from the current Canadian institution to ensure a credit transfer agreement between the universities. Look into any overseas or American “sister universities” that your university may have a deal with: it will save you a throbbing headache and eliminate the opportunity that your credits will not convert when you return to Canada.

Remember: not all credits are transferred equally.

There are, in general, the key reason why your credits will not be transferred, even if the classes are similar. For example, if you get unsatisfactory coursework, you will likely have to retake the same course to get those credits. Likewise, programs that you failed will have to be re-taken once you start at your brand-new university.

If you completed only one-half of a two-part course – Accounting 101A but not Accounting 101B – you may not have your credits transferred. However, if too much time has elapsed since you completed your programs, you may be asked to take a similar course to get your credits or have a challenging exam to ensure that your skills are sufficient and meet the institution’s requirements.

To learn more about transfer credits, contact the institution you’d like to transfer to. If you’re unsure where to start, contact the organizations in your province that can help you optimize your chances of making a smooth transition into a new post-secondary institution.