Online Colleges That Accept GCU Transfer Credits 2026

Transferring colleges can feel overwhelming, especially if you are unsure whether your existing credits will follow you. If you previously attended Grand Canyon University (GCU) and are considering finishing your degree elsewhere, understanding how transfer policies work can help you make an informed decision.

Because GCU is regionally accredited, its credits generally carry strong transfer value. However, acceptance ultimately depends on the receiving institution’s policies, program requirements, and course equivalencies. Below, we explain how GCU transfer credits are evaluated and highlight online colleges known for being transfer-friendly.

Can You Transfer Credits From GCU?

Yes, in many cases you can transfer credits from Grand Canyon University to another accredited institution. GCU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), which means its credits are considered academically comparable to those earned at other regionally accredited colleges and universities.

That said, transfer acceptance is never automatic. Each receiving school conducts its own transcript evaluation and determines how credits apply toward specific degree requirements. While general education courses are often more transferable, major-specific or licensure-related coursework may require closer review.

How GCU Transfer Credits Are Evaluated

Most colleges evaluate transfer credits on a course-by-course basis. General education classes such as English composition, college algebra, and introductory psychology often transfer more easily because they align closely with standardized curriculum requirements across institutions.

However, specialized major courses, particularly in fields such as nursing, engineering, or education, are reviewed individually to ensure they meet program standards. Many institutions require a minimum grade of C for transfer eligibility, and most accredited universities enforce a residency requirement that mandates completing approximately 25% of your degree at the new institution before it can award your diploma.

Online Colleges That Accept GCU Transfer Credits

Many regionally accredited online universities evaluate Grand Canyon University transcripts on a course-by-course basis. Because GCU holds regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), its credits are widely considered transferable, though final acceptance always depends on the receiving institution’s policies and program requirements.

Below are online colleges known for generous transfer policies and experience working with students transferring from four-year institutions.

1. Western Governors University

Western Governors University (WGU) allows undergraduate students to transfer up to approximately 75% of a degree program, depending on the field of study. WGU conducts a detailed course-by-course evaluation and typically requires a minimum grade of C for transferable coursework.

WGU is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). Because it operates on a competency-based model, students transferring from GCU may be able to accelerate through remaining requirements if their previous coursework prepared them well for assessments.

2. Southern New Hampshire University 

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) permits students to transfer up to 90 credits toward many bachelor’s degree programs. A minimum grade of C is generally required, and SNHU offers a free transfer credit evaluation before enrollment.

SNHU is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Its transfer-friendly structure makes it a common option for students who have already completed significant undergraduate coursework and want to finish their degrees online.

3. Arizona State University 

Arizona State University (ASU) Online allows transfer students to bring in up to 90 credits for eligible bachelor’s programs, subject to transcript evaluation. ASU provides online transfer tools that allow students to compare course equivalencies and estimate how credits may apply.

ASU is regionally accredited by HLC. For students seeking to remain within Arizona’s higher education system, ASU Online may provide academic alignment and continuity, particularly for lower-division general education coursework.

4. Liberty University

Liberty University accepts transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions, often allowing students to transfer up to 75% of undergraduate degree requirements. A minimum grade of C is typically required for most courses.

Liberty University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). As a private Christian institution, Liberty may align more closely with certain faith-based coursework, which could allow some GCU religious studies credits to apply more directly toward degree requirements.

5. University of Maryland Global Campus 

The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) permits transfer students to bring in up to 90 credits toward eligible bachelor’s programs. Coursework is evaluated individually, and a grade of C or higher is generally required.

UMGC is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). The university specializes in serving adult learners and transfer students, including those moving between four-year institutions.

6. Colorado State University Global

Colorado State University (CSU) Global allows transfer of up to 90 undergraduate credits from accredited institutions, subject to transcript evaluation. CSU Global is known for reviewing older coursework without imposing strict expiration dates for many general education classes.

CSU Global is regionally accredited by HLC. Its flexible transfer policies may benefit students who completed GCU coursework several years ago and are now returning to finish their degrees.

7. University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix permits eligible students to transfer up to 90 credits toward a bachelor’s degree. A minimum grade requirement generally applies, and transfer evaluations are conducted during the admissions process.

The University of Phoenix is regionally accredited by HLC. The institution provides a dedicated transfer portal designed to streamline the evaluation process for incoming students.

8. National University

National University allows transfer of up to 90 quarter units (or equivalent semester credits) for eligible undergraduate programs. Transfer credit decisions are based on institutional accreditation and minimum grade standards.

National University is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Its four-week course format may allow transfer students to complete remaining requirements in an accelerated timeline.

9. American Public University 

American Public University (APU) accepts transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions, often allowing up to 90 credits toward undergraduate programs. Courses must typically meet minimum grade and content equivalency standards.

APU is regionally accredited by HLC. Its flexible online structure and acceptance of professional or elective credits may help students apply a broader range of prior coursework.

10. Bellevue University

Bellevue University permits transfer of up to 90 undergraduate credits, depending on program requirements and transcript evaluation results. A minimum grade of C is commonly required for transfer consideration.

Bellevue University is regionally accredited by HLC. In addition to evaluating traditional coursework, Bellevue may award credit for prior learning or professional experience, which can complement transferred GCU credits.

How We Rank Schools

To create this list, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), along with transfer policy information published by each university.

Because transfer policies vary widely by institution and program, our evaluation focuses on regional accreditation, maximum transfer credit allowances, minimum grade requirements, and institutional transparency. We prioritize schools that clearly outline their transfer processes and offer structured support for incoming transfer students.

• Accreditation: Each school holds regional accreditation recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, supporting transfer portability.
• Transfer Credit Limits: We review the maximum number of undergraduate credits that may be transferred into a bachelor’s program.
• Minimum Grade Requirements: Most institutions require a grade of C or higher, and we consider clarity around these policies.
• Online Accessibility: Programs must offer fully online bachelor’s degree completion pathways suitable for transfer students.

How To Choose the Right Transfer-Friendly Online College

Selecting the right college after leaving GCU involves more than finding a high transfer credit cap. Students should consider how their specific coursework applies toward major requirements and whether remaining classes align with career goals.

When comparing options, evaluate the following factors:

• Residency Requirement: Most schools require completing at least 25% of the degree at their institution.
• Program Alignment: Ensure your intended major matches your previous coursework to avoid repeating classes.
• Transcript Evaluation Process: Look for institutions that provide clear, detailed credit evaluations before enrollment.
• Timeline to Graduation: Ask how many credits remain after transfer and how quickly they can be completed online.

Carefully reviewing these elements can help minimize credit loss and shorten your path to graduation.

How Long Does It Take to Finish Your Degree After Transferring?

The time required to complete your degree after transferring depends largely on how many credits are accepted and how they apply to your major. Students who transfer 75 to 90 credits into a 120-credit bachelor’s program may be able to finish within one to two years of full-time study.

However, the 25% residency rule at most accredited institutions means that even students with extensive prior coursework will need to complete a minimum number of credits at the new school. Part-time enrollment, accelerated formats, and competency-based programs may influence overall completion timelines.

Career Outlook With a Completed Bachelor’s Degree

Completing your bachelor’s degree can expand access to a wide range of professional opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), individuals with a bachelor’s degree generally experience lower unemployment rates and higher median earnings compared to those with only a high school diploma.

While job outlook varies by field, earning a degree from a regionally accredited institution can strengthen long-term career mobility. Finishing your program after transferring ensures your prior academic investment contributes to recognized credentials in the job market.

FAQs About Transferring GCU Credits

Understanding transfer policies can help reduce uncertainty during the college transition process. Below are answers to common questions GCU students often ask.

Are GCU Credits Regionally Accredited?

Yes, Grand Canyon University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Regional accreditation generally supports credit portability between similarly accredited institutions. However, final transfer decisions remain at the discretion of the receiving school.

Will All My GCU Credits Transfer?

Not necessarily. While many general education courses transfer more easily, major-specific or licensure-related classes may require additional evaluation. Transfer acceptance depends on course equivalency, grade earned, and program alignment.

What Is the 25% Residency Rule?

Most accredited colleges require students to complete at least 25% of their degree credits at the institution granting the diploma. For a typical 120-credit bachelor’s degree, this often means completing at least 30 credits at the new school. This policy ensures academic oversight and institutional integrity.

Can You Transfer GCU Credits to a State University?

Yes, many state universities accept transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions like GCU. However, credit application varies by program and department. Students should request a formal transcript evaluation before enrolling.

How Do You Request a Transcript From GCU?

Students can request official transcripts through GCU’s registrar or student portal. Most receiving institutions require official electronic or mailed transcripts directly from the issuing university. Processing times and fees may vary.

Explore Online Colleges That Accept Transfer Credits

Transferring from GCU does not mean starting over. Explore accredited online colleges on Learn.org to compare transfer policies, request transcript evaluations, and find a degree completion pathway that fits your goals.