Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Transferring Universities

• What is a transfer credit?

  A transfer credit is a university credit or college credit earned at one school that is then sent to and accepted by a different school. For example, Sayid earned transfer credits through the classes he took at American Collegiate Live, which were then applied toward his bachelor degree program at Cleveland State University.

• What is a Preliminary Credit Assessment?

  A Preliminary Credit Assessment is an unofficial review of your postsecondary coursework completed during the admission process. It identifies the courses that are likely to transfer and how many estimated credits you are likely to receive. The assessment can be completed based upon unofficial transcripts, including ungraded in-progress coursework. Applicants will receive their Preliminary Credit Assessment within one week of receiving their conditional offer letter. You may be asked to submit additional documentation to officially recognize your credits.

• How do I send my official transcripts?

  • By mail: Transcripts must be mailed in a secured, sealed envelope.

  • By email or electronic delivery service: Transcripts must be sent directly from the sending institution with an authorized email address or through a secure third-party transcript processing organization.

• What are the different types of transfer credits I could receive?

  The different types of transfer credits that may be accepted include:

  1. Direct equivalency: This means that the credit matches directly with a university class and you will receive credit for that class.

  2. General transfer credit: The university recognizes the credit as a college class, but it does not match a specific university course. General transfer credits will be awarded.

  3. No credit: The university does not recognize the credit.

  Please note a transferable credit does not necessarily mean it is applicable toward your program requirements. Some credits may transfer in as general electives that could count toward meeting the graduation credit hour requirement.

• Will my AP, IB, A/AS-Levels, etc. be accepted for transfer credit?

  Students must show proficiency by earning the minimum accepted score for AP, IB, and A/AS-Levels. Exam subjects accepted and minimum score requirements for AP, IB, and A/AS-Levels vary by school.

• How do I order my AP, IB, or A/AS scores?

  You can order your scores to be sent directly to the university:

  • Order your AP exams here.

  • Order your IB results here.

  • Order your A/AS scores here.

• How do I register for classes?

  With your transfer credits in mind, the university team will support you in selecting courses and registering for classes to ensure accurate coursework planning and that you stay on track for graduation.

• Do I have to attend orientation?

  Although you have already taken college coursework, we believe orientation is critical for your transition to campus. Be sure to mark your calendar for our arrival day so you can attend orientation and get your classes scheduled on time.

• Which schools are Transfer Direct?

  The following Shorelight universities participate in Transfer Direct:

  • Adelphi University

  • Cleveland State University

  • Gonzaga University

  • Louisiana State University

  • University of Dayton

  • University of Nevada, Reno

  • University of the Pacific

  • University of Wyoming

  While not officially offering the “Transfer Direct” program, all the schools listed on our “Transfer Friendly” page have develop credit transfer options that are designed for simple and successful international student transfers. Reach out to learn more!