Students transfer for many reasons, including a change in academic interests, the need for a more flexible format, or the decision to return to college after time away. Understanding how to transfer college credits can help you determine how your previous coursework may apply to a new program and which requirements you still need to complete. With the right transfer pathway, you can build on the progress you have already made as you work toward a degree that better fits your goals.
At Tiffin University, transfer students receive personalized guidance throughout the application and credit evaluation process. TU’s transfer-friendly degree pathways help you make the most of the college credits you have already earned and create a clear path toward completing your degree.
How to Transfer Credits from One College to Another
The process of transferring credits begins with researching the policies and degree requirements at the college you want to attend. Each institution determines which courses it will accept, how those courses apply to a program, and how many credits students must complete through that school.
TU’s Transfer Credit Process
TU’s transfer process begins with a free online application. After applying, you will be assigned a dedicated admissions counselor who can answer questions and help you request official transcripts from every college you previously attended. TU recommends a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0. Students with 12 or more transferable credits must submit previous college transcripts, and transferable credits must come from regionally accredited institutions.
After receiving your transcripts, TU will evaluate your coursework and determine how your credits apply to your selected degree. Your admissions counselor will then review the evaluation, remaining degree requirements, and course schedule with you. You will also need to submit any outstanding documents, complete the FAFSA if you’re seeking financial aid and finish online orientation before beginning classes.
What Matters Most When Choosing a College?
Choosing a college involves more than finding one that will accept previous credits. When comparing your options, find out how many credits will count toward your chosen degree and how much coursework you will need to complete after transferring. You should also consider whether the program’s format, cost, and support services align with your needs.
Career Preparation
Career preparation and graduate outcomes can help you evaluate the long-term value of completing your degree. According to TU’s 2024-2025 First Destination Survey, 98.3% of undergraduate alumni reported a career outcome, which was 13% higher than the national average. Nearly 95% of graduating students also said their TU experience completely prepared them for their first destination after graduation.
These results reflect TU’s focus on practical skills, applied learning, and professional preparation. When comparing colleges, look for a program that recognizes what you have already accomplished while helping you prepare for what comes next.
Industry Opportunities
Location can also matter, even if you complete your degree online. CNBC recently ranked Ohio the No. 1 state for business. Ohio moved from No. 5 in 2025 to the top position for the first time since CNBC began the study in 2007. The ranking evaluated all 50 states across 138 measures of competitiveness, and Ohio placed first in both infrastructure and cost of doing business.
Ohio’s business environment supports opportunities across industries such as advanced manufacturing, financial services, healthcare, logistics, and technology. For students who plan to continue or build a career in the state, earning a degree from an Ohio university can help them prepare for opportunities across a wide range of industries.
Should I Transfer Colleges?
Transferring may make sense if your current or previous college no longer offers the program, flexibility or support you need. It can also provide a clearer route to a bachelor’s degree if you have an associate degree from a community college or a good number of credits that you want to put toward a new goal.
Before making a decision, consider how many credits a college will accept, how they will apply to your chosen major, and how long completing the remaining requirements may take. TU offers several benefits that can help students make an informed transition.
Make More of Your Previous Credits
TU’s Associate-to-Bachelor’s degree completion programs are designed to help students maximize eligible credits from an associate degree. For participating programs, students with an associate degree from a regionally accredited institution may need no more than 60 additional credits to earn their bachelor’s degree. Depending on previous coursework and the selected program, fewer credits may be required. Available degree completion options include programs in business, psychology, organizational leadership and criminal justice.
Choose a Format That Fits Your Schedule
TU offers 100% online degree programs with asynchronous coursework. Students do not need to attend live classes at set times each week and can complete readings, discussions and assignments within course deadlines. Six start dates each year provide additional flexibility when deciding when to return.
Explore Credit for Prior Learning
College courses are not the only experiences that may help you move closer to a degree. Through TU’s Credit for Prior Learning process, eligible students may receive credit for certain professional certifications, licenses, standardized exams, military service, workplace training or knowledge developed through professional and life experiences.
Transfer to TU and Complete Your Degree
Transferring colleges does not mean leaving the progress you have already made behind. TU will evaluate your credits, explain how they apply to your chosen degree, and help you create a plan for completing the remaining requirements. With transfer-friendly degree pathways, asynchronous coursework and individualized guidance, you can build on your experience and continue working toward a bachelor’s degree.