Transferring to GCU

Technically, no. Although transfer credits never expire, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind that may affect which units will transfer and which won’t. As always, contact a GCU transfer specialist for further clarity on this subject. 

1. STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) courses usually have a 10-year shelf-life. Advances in these fields tend to alter the methodologies and practices used within them. 
2. Graduate courses have a seven-year shelf-life. 
3. Previous life experience might be relevant. If you’ve worked in the field or industry of your degree path, you could possibly earn credit for that experience. GCU’s Lifelong Learning Assessment (LLA) allows qualified students to earn credits based on past work and life experiences. 
4. Transfer credits must be from accredited universities. GCU generally accepts courses from accredited, GCU-approved colleges, universities or programs, provided the work is not of a highly specialized nature and a grade of “C” or better is earned.

Ultimately, the Office of Academic Records uses an official transfer credit evaluation to analyze all prior college or university coursework and determine how each course completed at each previous school will transfer into the university in the program of study. Based on that evaluation, some credits not applicable to the program may not transfer. 

Transferring colleges doesn’t have to be stressful. Our Lopes Unofficial Credit Evaluation tool and Transfer Course Search tool make transferring hassle free. GCU’s team of transfer specialists are also here to support you during your transition. 

A student must earn 120 semester credits to be awarded a bachelor’s degree from GCU. Of the 120 credits, 36 must come from upper-division coursework. Additionally, students must meet the program graduation requirements of their degree, including the coursework and any capstone projects.

Contact your previous university or community college’s registrar office to request official and unofficial transcripts. Typically, institutions also provide tools to order transcripts online.

Students can transfer in with any number of credits, not exceeding 90. Take advantage of GCU’s complimentary transfer credit tools and speak with a transfer specialist to determine the maximum number of eligible transfer credits for your degree program.

GCU offers the option to transfer in for the fall or spring semester. Complete the form on this page to get started.

As a military member, you may be able to transfer up to 60 credits from military training — up to 30 military credits (applies to certain programs), plus 30 alternative transfer credits — in addition to approved certificates and national exams. Contact a military university counselor who can help you determine how to transfer military training to college credits.