Transfer Credits Evaluation Calculator
This tool helps students estimate the transferability of their earned university credits to institutions in the **US, Canada, and the UK**. Input your course details, select the target country's system, and receive an estimated credit acceptance summary and GPA impact. **Transfer evaluations are estimates only** and should be confirmed with the target university's registrar.
Course Details (Add at least one)
Transfer Evaluation Results
Original Institution:
Target Country:
Total Courses Evaluated: 0
Estimated Credits Accepted (Target System): 0
GPA Impact Note:
Transfer Progress Summary
*Progress is relative to a typical 60-credit transfer maximum.
Detailed Course Breakdown
Understanding Credit Transfer Evaluation: Your Guide to International Studies
Transferring academic credits from one university to another, especially across different countries like the US, Canada, and the UK, can be a complex process. This calculator aims to demystify the initial evaluation by considering key factors like the course level, the grade received, and the content match. Understanding these elements is crucial for a smooth transition...
How to Use the Calculator Effectively
Begin by accurately entering your **Original Institution Name** and selecting your **Target Institution Selection** (US, Canada, or UK). This choice activates the correct credit conversion logic (e.g., Semester to CATS). For each course, provide the **Course Title** and **Credits Earned**. The **Course Level Selector** (100-level for first year, 400-level for senior) helps the target institution determine academic rigor. Most importantly, be honest with the **Syllabus/Content Match Percentage**—a 90% match ensures a higher chance of a 'Fully Transferable' decision.
The Core Calculation Formula
The transferability assessment is based on a weighted formula. The primary factors are Accreditation Status, Grade/Mark, and Content Match. The automatic credit conversion (e.g., Quarter to Semester or Semester to CATS) follows established academic standards:
- **Semester to Quarter:** Semester Credit $\times$ 1.5 = Quarter Credit
- **Semester to UK CATS:** Semester Credit $\times$ 2 = CATS Credits (Approx.)
- **Quarter to Semester:** Quarter Credit $\div$ 1.5 = Semester Credit (Approx.)
The final acceptance is determined by multiplying the converted credit value by a transfer factor $T_f$. The $T_f$ is derived from the average of three scores (Accreditation Score, Grade Score, and Content Match Score), where $0 \le T_f \le 1$. If a course fails any major hurdle (like an F grade or low content match), $T_f$ drops to 0 immediately, resulting in **Not Transferable**.
Importance of Accurate Transfer Calculations
Accurate estimation of accepted transfer credits is vital for two reasons. Firstly, it allows students to plan their remaining degree requirements and avoid unnecessary courses. Secondly, understanding the **GPA Impact Indicator** is key. While many transfer grades aren't factored into the target university GPA, some selective programs may use them, or they are used to determine initial academic standing. Always consult the university's official policy.
Related Tips for a Successful Transfer
- **Retain Your Syllabus:** Always keep the full syllabus for every course you wish to transfer. This is mandatory for the content match review.
- **Accreditation Matters:** Credits from institutions with recognized regional or national accreditation have a significantly higher transfer rate.
- **Grade Requirement:** Most US/Canada institutions require a minimum grade of C (or 70% equivalent) for a course to be considered for transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Semester credits are typically used in two main academic terms per year (Fall/Spring), while Quarter credits are used in four shorter terms (Fall/Winter/Spring/Summer). Generally, one Semester credit is equivalent to 1.5 Quarter credits.
In most US and Canadian universities, transfer grades are not calculated into the target institution's GPA (only the credits transfer). However, some highly selective institutions or specific programs might use the transfer GPA for admissions review. UK institutions generally do not import the numerical GPA but assess the overall quality of prior study.
The content match is critical because the target university needs to ensure the course you took covers the same foundational topics as their equivalent course. If the content match is below 80%, the course is often deemed 'Not Transferable' or 'Partially Transferable' (e.g., only counting as an elective).
In the US/Canada system, course numbers indicate academic level: 100-level courses are typically introductory/first-year; 200-level are sophomore/intermediate; 300-level are junior/advanced; and 400-level are senior/capstone courses. Transferring upper-level courses (300/400) requires a higher degree of content match and grade.
Yes, but the transfer process will often require confirmation that the original course included sufficient contact hours for the practical component. The lab/practical hours must generally meet the target institution's standard to be accepted as a direct equivalent to their lab course.
