TRANSFERRING CREDITS

Transferring credits to Capella University

Capella University makes transferring credits from another accredited university or college a straightforward process. Do you have credit to transfer? Learn what you need to know.

Transfer credit process

There are three steps to finding out if your previous university credits will apply to your Capella program:

1. Obtain official transcripts

Capella simplifies this step. When you apply for admission to Capella University, you can give Capella permission to request your transcripts from other schools on your behalf.*

*Capella will not be able to obtain your transcript if there is a hold on your record from another university.

2. Credit evaluation

Capella evaluates your previous coursework based on applicability to degree requirements, grades earned and how closely a course matches our courses per department, title, level, credits and description of course content. Courses without a direct Capella match may be evaluated as electives in programs that include electives.*

*Degree levels and programs have maximum transfer credit limits. See Transfer Credit and Prior Learning Assessment Policy for details.

3. Credit evaluation summary

You’ll receive an email with a summary of the courses that have been accepted for transfer each time we receive a new official transcript.

Frequently asked questions

Once you have completed the Capella admissions application – including your education history – you can start sending your transcripts to us. Capella evaluates each transcript for transfer credit as it arrives.

Yes. If your previous institution allows third-party requests, we will be able to request them on your behalf. You can choose this option as part of your application to Capella.

Generally, we can accept transfer credits from other regionally accredited institutions and from other programs on a case-by-case basis.

Each of our programs has a different limit to how many transfer credits can be applied.

A bachelor’s student can transfer in up to 135 quarter credits out of the 180 required to complete the program. This may be limited by program and specific courses.
Typically, about a quarter of a master’s degree can be fulfilled via credit transfer.
Doctoral programs vary. Some programs accept transfer credits, and some do not. Connect with us for details about transferring credits into your program.

Once we have received your transcripts, you can expect to see evaluations within seven business days.

You can order your official transcript from www.parchment.com, our secure transcript request service. If you don’t already have an account with this service, you’ll be able to set up a new one for free.

The following is a list of our recognized programs for credit toward a Capella bachelor’s degree program. Minimum scores may be required.

Recognized programs:

Advanced Placement examinations
International Baccalaureate examinations
College-Level Examination Program
DANTES Subject Standardized Tests
ACE-recommended learning experiences including those earned through the military, Sophia for College Credit, StraighterLine and many more

Eligible transfer credit:

Credit awarded from an academic institution or program that was accredited prior to the applicant’s withdrawal from the institution
Undergraduate coursework completed with a grade of "C–" or better
Graduate coursework completed with a grade of "B–" or better

Not eligible for transfer credit:

Credit awarded by another institution’s petition for credit, portfolio assessments or institution-specific credit by examination
Graduate-level courses applied toward a previous undergraduate degree

Work with your enrollment counselor if you have questions about your transfer credit evaluation, or if you wish to explore options for any non-accepted credits.

Credit that may be considered:

Credit awarded by an institution or program with provisional accreditation at the time the applicant withdrew from the institution
Credit awarded by other institutions and credit by a standardized exam such as CLEP or DSST
Vocational courses from technical colleges and programs
Courses completed outside of the U.S.

Other ways to earn credit or reduce tuition

You may have other avenues to help with costs and credit toward your degree. Explore what Capella has to offer.

Complete prior learning assessments

We offer the opportunity to earn credit for knowledge gained outside of a standard college course through our prior learning assessments.

See how it works

Take courses on us with Capella Jumpstart

Get started down an alternate path to college admissions by beginning college-level coursework with our affiliate, Sophia Learning. Successfully completed courses automatically apply toward a bachelor’s degree at Capella.

Discover how

Leverage your military experience

Whether you are a service member or a veteran, you likely have training that may be recognized toward your Capella degree as course credits.

See our military benefits

Apply for scholarships

We recognize your dedication to your future by helping fund the cost of tuition in your program. Capella Progress Rewards are scholarships for eligible new students that are not need-based.

Learn about scholarships

Nationally recognized programs

Credit from some nationally recognized programs may also be applied for credit toward a Capella bachelor’s degree program. Minimum scores may be required. Talk to our admissions experts to learn more.

Request information

Take the next step

Your questions are unique—like you. Talk with someone who gets it. Our team of counselors, coaches, advisors, and faculty are here to provide the support you need throughout your journey.

Call Us: 1.866.796.6651

TRANSFERRING CREDITS