Types of Transfer Credit
In addition to credits and degrees earned at a college or university, students might also be eligible to earn credit from national examinations, military courses and training, international institutions and life and work experience.
Use the links below to view information about each credit type and discover if any of these options may be right for you.
Dual Enrollment
The commonwealth’s Dual Enrollment Program allows qualified high school juniors and seniors to enroll in college-level courses and receive both college and high school credit. The college credits are widely accepted and transferable to colleges and universities nationwide. Students should contact their high school guidance counselor to find out what Dual Enrollment Program opportunities may be available.
Secondary Career and Technical Education Credit
CollegeTransfer.net - Transfer Center
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SOAR Programs are accepted at higher education institutions |  | |
High school students enrolled in an approved career and technical Program of Study in Pennsylvania may be able to receive college-level credit that can be applied toward a diploma, certificate or degree in a similar Program of Study at a postsecondary institution. Students Occupationally and Academically Ready Program (SOAR) Program is the educational plan which aligns secondary and postsecondary career and technical education programs in a coordinated, non-duplicative progression of courses. SOAR Programs offer the qualifying student an opportunity for postsecondary credit opportunity through a statewide articulation agreement partnership established between secondary schools and postsecondary institutions. Use the SOAR Transfer Center to see how SOAR Programs are accepted at the postsecondary institution partners. Click on the SOAR Logo learn more about SOAR Programs.
Credit by Examination
Institutions may award credit to students who earn acceptable scores on standardized subject exams. Score requirements and credit awards vary by college. Students pay a fee to take the exams. Below are examples of organizations that offer subject exams commonly accepted at postsecondary institutions across Pennsylvania.
Credit for Prior Learning
Adult learners have personal and professional learning experiences that often can earn them college credit and set them on a path toward a degree in higher education. Colleges refer to this as "prior learning" since the experiences occurred before enrolling in college. Examples include credit for industry-related licensure, portfolio assessment and life or work experience. Learn how you can save time and money by taking advantage of prior learning assessment opportunities.
Military Credit
Service members can often receive college credit towards a degree based on training, coursework and occupational specialty earned in the military. To receive credit, the college will require a review of the service member’s military transcripts. In general, institutions award college-level credit based upon the American Council on Education’s recommendations. The Pennsylvania Division of Veterans and Military Education can provide more information.