10 Online Colleges That Accept Transfer Credits in New York

Transferring credits is one of the biggest hurdles for switching schools. Students in New York looking to transfer to an online bachelor's degree program should ensure their new program accepts their credits so they don't have to retake any classes. Online colleges that accept transfer credits set policies to make it easy for transfer students to make the move.

Fortunately, many online schools in New York allow transfer students to bring state university or community college credits to finish a four-year degree program. Each school has different transfer requirements, so students should confirm that credits will transfer before applying.

10 Best Online Colleges That Accept Transfer Credits in New York

Many online higher education institutions in New York accept transfer credits, but they have different guidelines and criteria for acceptance. You may be able to transfer credits from a previous degree earned at another college. Transfer students typically need to submit an official transcript that shows all the credit hours they've earned to see which credits will count.

New York University

New York University (NYU) is one of the most respected universities in the world, and its online courses allow students outside of New York City to earn a prestigious college degree without having to relocate. Students can complete four-year degree programs using credits earned at community colleges and other schools.

Some of NYU's transfer credit policies include the following:

• learners must have a high school degree or equivalent
• transfer students must be enrolled in a regionally or nationally accredited school and working towards a degree
• students must complete 24 credits before the application date
• students need to submit an official transcript, letter of recommendation, and any program-specific application material (like a portfolio)

City University of New York (CUNY)

The City University of New York is a network of 25 colleges across the city including two-year colleges, four-year colleges, and graduate programs. CUNY has articulation agreements with multiple community colleges throughout the state to allow for easy transfer. Additionally, CUNY initiatives allow out-of-state students a smooth transfer to finish their degrees on time.

Transfer credit policies for CUNY are listed below:

• CUNY accepts general education and major/minor transfer credits as long as there are equivalents in their curriculum, electives are approved more selectively
• students must submit their official transcript for acceptance review, but most transfer credit evaluations happen after acceptance

State University of New York (SUNY)

The State University of New York has 64 campuses in Buffalo, Oswego, and more. Online learning at a SUNY college is coordinated through the individual campus and your degree will bear the name of that school.

Transfer policies are left up to the independent locations. You should contact a transfer advisor at your chosen SUNY college before applying.

Syracuse University

Syracuse University offers nearly 600 degree and certificate programs online. Students can select academic programs like business management, computer programming, and healthcare administration.

To transfer credits to Syracuse, students must submit an academic recommendation, the Syracuse College Report Form, and any relevant transcripts. They must also submit a high school transcript if they've earned fewer than 30 credit hours.

Touro University Worldwide

Touro University has campuses in New York and California, but its online offerings can be accessed from anywhere. Touro University Worldwide enrollment allows students to pursue degrees in business administration, behavioral science, psychology, social work, and more.

The university's transfer credit policies include:

• students can transfer a maximum of 90 credit hours
• minimum of 30 credits must be completed at TUW
• credit evaluations are done on an individual basis (academic advisors review GPA, college-level coursework, and more)

Hilbert College Global

Hilbert College is a four-year liberal arts school located outside of Buffalo, but there are diverse online offerings for students throughout the state. Hilbert College Global provides flexible scheduling for students to complete their four-year degree while working full-time or around their kids' schedules.

To transfer credits, students must submit transcripts for any previous higher education and high school. Students who complete a minimum of 30 credit hours can qualify for waived general education requirements.

Dominican University New York

Dominican University New York offers 30 different online undergraduate programs that allow students the flexibility to complete their degree without the time commitment of on-campus learning. Students can pursue degrees in criminal justice, public health, and more. DUNY's online programs have rolling application deadlines, allowing you to enroll on your own timeline.

Students can transfer a maximum of 70 hours to a two-year program or 90 hours to a four-year program at DUNY. Those with a GPA over 2.0 will qualify for transfer scholarships if they enroll in 12 credit hours per semester; the award is based on the transferring GPA.

Alfred State College of Technology

Alfred State is a SUNY College that offers career-focused degrees, particularly in technology-based fields. Some of the top programs at Alfred State include healthcare, social sciences, business, and more. Transfer students will benefit from Alfred State's 100% online four-year degree programs that allow them to transfer up to 90 credits.

Transfer credit policies at Alfred State include:

• students must have a minimum GPA of 2.0
• courses must have a direct equivalent or come from a school with an articulation agreement
• students must submit an official transcript for review, but an unofficial review can be done before official transcripts are received

D'Youville University

According to The Economist magazine, D'Youville University is one of the most affordable online colleges in New York. D'Youville University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like nursing, business administration, and psychology.

Students can transfer up to 90 or 91 credit hours, depending on individual program requirements. Students must submit a free application and transcripts for any previous higher education they've completed.

How We Rank Schools

When identifying online colleges in New York that accept transfer credits, we focus on the qualities that make transferring practical and worthwhile. Each institution is reviewed for academic standards, affordability, and student success.

• Accreditation: Every featured college holds recognized accreditation, ensuring that your transferred credits meet established educational quality standards.
• Credit transfer policy: We examine each school’s approach to evaluating prior coursework, including GPA minimums, articulation agreements, and the maximum number of transferable credits.
• Affordability: Schools are chosen for offering competitive tuition rates and access to financial aid, grants, and scholarships that help transfer students reduce costs.
• Program reputation: We consider rankings, student outcomes, and employer recognition to highlight programs that maintain strong reputations in higher education.

How To Transfer College Credits Step by Step

Transferring college credits in New York can feel complex, but a clear plan can make the process manageable. Here’s how to move your existing credits to a new online degree program efficiently.

1. Verify Accreditation and Course Match

Begin by confirming that your previous college or university was accredited by a recognized agency. Then, compare your completed classes with your target school’s course list or articulation agreements to see which credits are most likely to transfer.

2. Submit Official Transcripts and Supporting Materials

Gather official transcripts from all schools you’ve attended and send them to your new college for evaluation. Some institutions may also request syllabi, course descriptions, or recommendations to verify the level of your completed coursework.

3. Review Credit Evaluation and Finalize Enrollment

Once your transfer credits are reviewed, your new college will send an official evaluation showing how they apply toward your degree. Review this carefully with an academic advisor before registering for courses to ensure your credits are used effectively.

FAQs About Using Transfer Credits

If you plan to continue your education through an online program in New York, understanding how transfer credits work can save time and money. Below are answers to common questions students often have when preparing to transfer.

Should I Transfer Schools?

Transferring schools can be a smart move when your current college doesn’t offer the degree or flexibility you need. It also helps if you want to switch from in-person classes to an online program for greater convenience.

Still, you should verify credit transfer rules before leaving your current institution. This ensures you won’t lose progress or end up retaking courses unnecessarily.

What Can Be Used as Transfer Credits?

Transferable credits typically come from previous college coursework, but many schools also recognize alternative learning experiences. Examples include Advanced Placement (AP) scores, College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) tests, and military or professional training.

Some universities in New York even evaluate prior work or life experience for academic credit. Because policies differ, contact the admissions office to learn which nontraditional credits may apply.

Will My Credits Transfer?

Each college determines its own transfer credit policies, so acceptance can vary widely. Most schools accept general education courses easily, while major-specific classes are reviewed more closely for content alignment.

It’s best to request a preliminary credit evaluation before applying. This helps you understand how your previous coursework will apply to your new degree program.

How Many Credits Can I Transfer?

Most online universities in New York allow up to 90 credits for a bachelor’s degree program. This means you could complete your remaining requirements more quickly and reduce total tuition costs.

However, some programs have lower limits based on accreditation or major-specific requirements. Always check your school’s transfer guide to confirm how many credits will apply.

Find Flexible Online Degrees

Continuing your education in New York is simpler when you choose a college that values your prior achievements. Explore accredited online programs through Learn.org to find transfer-friendly degrees that align with your goals and schedule.