Introduction
Planning to continue your college education in the United States after starting your studies abroad? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of international students successfully transfer credits from their home-country universities to US colleges. But while the opportunity is real, the process can feel like navigating a maze — different schools, different rules, and countless requirements.
The good news is that with the right planning, transferring international credits can be manageable and rewarding. It can help you save time, reduce costs, and stay on track to earn your degree. This guide breaks down what you need to know — from understanding credit evaluations to navigating admissions timelines — so you can transfer with confidence and make the most of your previous academic work.
Description
Understanding the Basics of International Credit Transfer
What Does It Mean to Transfer International Credits?
Transferring international credits means having your completed college or university coursework from another country evaluated by a US institution. The goal is to apply those credits toward your degree so you don’t have to repeat classes you’ve already taken.
This process is essential if you’re starting a degree in your home country and plan to finish it in the US. However, not all courses or credits may transfer directly — it depends on your new school’s policies, your previous institution’s accreditation, and how closely your completed coursework matches the US curriculum.
When and How to Start the Transfer Process
Start planning your transfer at least four to six months before you want to begin classes in the US. The earlier you begin, the more time you’ll have to gather documents, get your transcripts evaluated, and meet deadlines. This is especially important if your credits need to go through a foreign credential evaluation.
Work With an Academic or International Advisor
Every US college has its own credit transfer process. That’s why your first step should be to connect with an international student advisor or Designated School Official (DSO). These professionals will guide you through:
SEVIS transfer (if you’re already on a student visa)
Required forms, transcripts, and documentation
Foreign credential evaluations
Course or subject matching for credit approval
If your institution partners with Shorelight or a similar education provider, you can also access hands-on support with applications, visas, and course planning.
How to Transfer Your Credits
1. Research the University’s Transfer Policies
Before applying, read the target university’s transfer credit policies. Some colleges set limits on how many credits can be transferred. Others require that a certain percentage of your final coursework be completed at their institution. Pay close attention to:
Minimum GPA for transfer eligibility
Required documentation (syllabi, transcripts, course descriptions)
Transfer deadlines and application timelines
Foreign credential evaluation requirements
2. Get a Foreign Transcript Evaluation
If you’re applying from outside the US, your university transcripts may need to be evaluated by a recognized credential evaluation service. This evaluation will determine how your international credits align with the US education system.
Visit the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) to find a list of approved evaluators. Many colleges only accept evaluations from NACES members.
A course-by-course evaluation is typically required and includes:
Grade conversion to the US scale
Course credit equivalency
Verification of institution accreditation
3. Submit Your Application and Required Documents
Most colleges have similar applications for both transfer and first-year students. You’ll complete the same forms, but indicate that you’re applying as a transfer student. Be sure to include:
Official transcripts from your previous institution(s)
Foreign credential evaluation report (if needed)
Course descriptions or syllabi, if requested
English language proficiency scores (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)
Financial documentation for your student visa
Some schools may also waive standardized test requirements like the SAT or ACT for transfer students.
4. Check for Transfer Tables and Articulation Agreements
Many universities provide transfer tables that list previously accepted credits from foreign and domestic institutions. These tables can give you a preview of how your courses might transfer before you apply.
Some US universities also have articulation agreements with foreign schools, simplifying the process. These agreements clearly outline what coursework will be accepted and ensure a smoother path to completing your degree.
If your school isn’t listed, that doesn’t mean your credits won’t transfer — but you may need to provide extra documentation or have your courses reviewed by a faculty member.
5. Consider General Education Credit Options
Even if a specific class doesn’t transfer into your major, it may still count toward your general education requirements — a big plus in the US system, where most students must complete a broad curriculum before focusing on their major.
Use this to your advantage. Courses in English, science, social studies, or math often fulfill foundational credit requirements.
6. Prepare for Financial and Visa Considerations
Transferring may affect your financial aid or change the total cost of attendance. Compare tuition, housing, and living expenses between your current and future schools. Make sure to settle any outstanding balances at your current institution before transferring.
If you’re an F-1 visa holder, your SEVIS record must be transferred to the new school. Once your admission is confirmed, request a new I-20 form from your new university.
What If Your Credits Don’t Transfer?
Not all credits will carry over. Some may not meet US accreditation standards or align with your new program’s requirements. If this happens:
Ask if the course can apply toward general education requirements
Speak with an academic advisor about retaking or substituting courses
Request a faculty review of your course syllabi for reconsideration
You may also qualify for advanced standing or placement testing in some departments — this can help you skip introductory courses without formal credit transfer.
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