Transfer Credit Evaluator Formula
Understand the math behind the transfer credit evaluator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
Estimated Accepted Credits
credits_accepted = accepted_creditsCredits Not Accepted
credits_lost = credits_submitted - accepted_creditsCredits Remaining for Degree
remaining_to_degree = max(degree_required - total_earned, 0)Degree Completion After Transfer
completion_pct = min(total_earned / degree_required * 100, 100)Variables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
credits_submitted | Transfer Credits Submitted | 60 |
acceptance_rate_pct | Expected Acceptance Rate(%) | 75 |
degree_required | Degree Total Credits | 120 |
existing_credits | Credits Already Earned at New School | 0 |
accepted_credits | Derived value= floor(credits_submitted * acceptance_rate_pct / 100) | calculated |
total_earned | Derived value= accepted_credits + existing_credits | calculated |
How It Works
How Transfer Credit Evaluation Works
When transferring between institutions, not all credits may be accepted. Acceptance depends on accreditation, course equivalency, and grade requirements.
Formula
Accepted Credits = Transfer Credits x Acceptance Rate
Remaining = Degree Required - (Accepted + Existing)
Typical acceptance rates range from 60-90% depending on how closely the institutions' curricula align.
Worked Example
A student submits 60 transfer credits with a 75% expected acceptance rate for a 120-credit degree, having 0 credits at the new school.
- 01Accepted credits: floor(60 x 0.75) = floor(45) = 45
- 02Credits lost: 60 - 45 = 15
- 03Remaining: 120 - 45 = 75
- 04Completion: 45 / 120 x 100 = 37.5 %
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I improve my transfer credit acceptance?
Choose accredited schools, get pre-approval for courses, maintain good grades (typically C or better), and provide syllabi for review.
Do community college credits transfer to universities?
Generally yes, especially within the same state system. Many states have articulation agreements guaranteeing transfer.
Can I appeal rejected transfer credits?
Yes. Provide course syllabi and descriptions to demonstrate equivalency. Contact the registrar or department chair.
Ready to run the numbers?
Open Transfer Credit Evaluator