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Credit transfer

If you’ve studied before, you could use your previous study, even if you didn’t complete it, towards an Open University qualification.

Over 6,000 people are awarded credit transfer each year. Applying is free and doesn't commit you to study.

What is credit transfer?

Whether you’ve studied some modules or courses at higher education level or completed part of a degree, diploma or certificate, you may be able to use it towards an Open University qualification.

We call this credit transfer, and it allows you to reach your qualification goals sooner, saving you time and money.

Why should I apply?

Save time and cost – If you're awarded credit you'll have fewer modules to study, so you'll pay less and finish sooner.

Avoid repetition – You may not have to repeat previously completed learning.

Lose nothing – You won't lose any credit from your previous study. Many of our qualifications allow you to transfer credits achieved up to 16 years ago.

When should I apply?

If you’re considering starting your studies in October 2025, you must apply for credit transfer by 14/08/2025.
 
 

Find out how you could transfer your previous study to an OU qualification.

How to apply for credit transfer

1: Check and apply

Use our previous study checker to see if you could be eligible for credit transfer. Applying is free and doesn't commit you to study.

2: Register

When you're awarded credit, you'll receive an email inviting you to log in, view credit awarded and register for your chosen qualification.

3: Enrol

Choose a module, enrol and get ready to study!

Want to check your eligibility?

Use our previous study finder to determine whether your existing credit can be transferred into an OU qualification.

Staff at the OU office in Cardiff guided me through the credit transfer procedure, and I was able to start studying at Stage 2 instead of Stage 1. The OU website is very clearly laid out and easy to navigate, so I had no problems registering for all my modules online.

Rhys Jenkins, BSc (Hons) Natural Sciences

The OU values your previous achievements

If you have studied at higher education level before (including HNC and HND), you may be able to count what you’ve already done towards an OU qualification – even if you didn’t complete your previous study.

The UK's most flexible qualifications

Our Open qualifications offer the most flexibility to people wanting to transfer previous study to the OU. 

We'll assess your eligibility for the Open degree as well as your chosen qualification, giving you the option for a change in direction when you're ready to choose your path.

Your degree could be closer than you think

When you apply for credit transfer, you'll tell us up to three qualifications you're looking to study from our wide range of subjects.

This doesn't commit you to study, but the credit you're awarded means you are a step closer to your dream qualification.