Transfer Credits Guide - April 2026
Transfer Credits Guide: How to Cut Your Online Degree Cost by 40-75%
Transferring 90 credits into SNHU at $342/credit saves $30,780. CLEP exams cost $90 and earn 3-6 credits worth $1,000-$2,000 at most schools. Transfer credits are the most powerful cost-reduction tool available.
The Math
SNHU without transfers
$41,040
120 credits x $342
SNHU with 90 transfer credits
$10,260
30 credits x $342. Savings: $30,780
Sources of Transfer Credits
| Source | Cost to You | Credits Possible | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Previous college credits | $0 (already paid) | Varies | Any regionally accredited college transcript. Most schools accept up to 90. |
| Community college | $65-$154/credit (see CC guide) | 60-90 credits | Cheapest way to earn new transfer credits. See our community college guide. |
| CLEP Exams | $90/exam | 3-6 credits per exam | 5 CLEP exams at $90 = $450 for up to 30 credits worth $5,000-$10,000 at most schools. |
| DSST Exams | $90/exam | 3-4 credits per exam | Similar to CLEP. Covers different subjects including business ethics and fundamentals of counseling. |
| AP Scores (high school) | $0 (already paid) | 3-6 credits per exam (score 3+) | Check each school's AP credit policy. Scores of 3, 4, or 5 typically earn credit. |
| Military Training (JST) | $0 | Varies (up to 30+ credits) | Joint Services Transcript. Most military-friendly schools evaluate and award credit. ACE recommendations used. |
| Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) | $50-$500 per portfolio | Varies (up to 30 credits) | Submit a portfolio demonstrating mastery of college-level material from work experience. Assessment-based. |
The CLEP Strategy: $450 for 15-30 College Credits
CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) exams are offered by the College Board and cost $90 each. A passing score earns 3-6 college credits at most participating schools. 5 exams at $90 each costs $450 total and can earn you 15-30 credits worth $5,000-$10,260 at SNHU.
English Composition
3-6 credits
$90/exam
College Algebra
3 credits
$90/exam
Principles of Marketing
3 credits
$90/exam
Principles of Management
3 credits
$90/exam
American History I & II
3 credits each
$90/exam
Introductory Psychology
3 credits
$90/exam
Financial Accounting
3 credits
$90/exam
Information Systems
3 credits
$90/exam
Verify acceptance: before registering for a CLEP exam, confirm that your target school accepts that specific CLEP exam and what score is required. Most require a minimum score of 50 (out of 80).
Transfer Credit Limits by School
| School | Max Transfer Credits | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Western Governors University | Up to 90 credits | From regionally accredited schools, CLEP, DSST, AP, military (JST) |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Up to 90 credits | Accepts CLEP, DSST, AP, military. All from regionally accredited institutions. |
| Liberty University | Up to 90 credits | Accepts broad range of transfer sources including CLEP and military. |
| University of Florida Online | Varies by program | Contact specific program. Most accept extensive transfers for gen ed. |
| Fort Hays State University | Up to 64 credits | Lower limit than others. Verify for your specific program. |
| National University | Up to 90 credits | Month-to-month enrollment; transfers evaluated quickly. |
Common Transfer Mistakes to Avoid
- !Taking courses without pre-approval and assuming they'll transfer
- !Exceeding the maximum transfer credit limit
- !Trusting verbal assurances from admissions advisers (get it in writing)
- !Not checking whether credits are accepted as major or just elective credit
- !Waiting until enrollment to check CLEP exam acceptance policies
Transferology: How to Use It
- 1.Go to transferology.com
- 2.Enter the college where you took (or plan to take) courses
- 3.Select your courses
- 4.Enter your destination school
- 5.See exactly how each course transfers and what requirement it fulfills
- 6.Use this BEFORE registering for any courses