Transferring Online College Credits?

I've taken some online college classes and I'm looking to transfer those credits. What should I consider to ensure that these credits will be accepted by the college I want to attend?

There are several things to look into when hoping to transfer online college course credits:

First, check if the institution from which you took the online classes is regionally accredited. Colleges and universities are more likely to accept credits from regionally accredited institutions. You can typically find this information on the institution's website or by contacting the admissions or registrar’s office.

Secondly, look into any transfer agreements that may exist. Some online institutions have pre-established articulation agreements with other schools to make transferring credits easier.

Third, consider the type of credits you've earned. For example, more general coursework or classes aligned with your intended major are often transferable, while highly specialized or vocational training credits may not transfer as easily.

Fourth, it's important to keep in mind the college’s transfer policies. Some schools might accept all of your credits, some might accept a partial number, and others may not accept any. Specific transfer policies vary widely, so it's best to contact the admissions office of the colleges you're interested in.

Finally, get a copy of your official transcript from the online college, as you will need to submit this to the new college's admissions office as proof of your completed coursework.

As an example, if you took general education courses online at a regionally accredited community college, and you're now applying to a state university that has an articulation agreement with that community college, you'll likely be able to transfer most, if not all, of those credits. However, if you took specialized courses online through a vocational school, fewer of these credits may transfer, especially if your new major is unrelated, such as Computer Science courses at a beauty school.

Honestly, the process can be a bit complicated, so don't hesitate to ask for help from an academic advisor or admissions officer. They are there to support you through the process.