College Transfer FAQs: How Do I Convert from Quarter Units to Semester Units?

About this article
While some administrative actions between schools are the same, different schools often have their own way of doing things. Quarter units and semester units are an example of this difference. This article tells you how to convert between the two and offers some considerations for transferring.
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Depending on whether the school you are applying to is on the semester system or the quarter system, you will have to adjust your units accordingly. The calculation is really quite simple. The important thing to keep in mind is that the units need to be consistent. So, if you have some semester units and some quarter units and you are applying to a semester school, convert only the quarter units and add the semester units to that calculation.

The calculation is as follows:

  • Semester Units = Quarter Units / 1.5
  • Quarter Units = Semester Units x 1.5

You'll need to indicate the number of units you'll have at the time of transfer. Thus, if you are applying to a school but have one more semester (or quarter) to go, then factor those units into the calculation as well. These units are important regardless whether you think the units will transfer to your new school. The application is only asking for total units.

The college to which you transfer will determine which courses will be accepted when you transfer, the number of credits to be awarded, and the type of credit to be given (general education, major requirements, or elective credit).

If you are concerned about what courses will transfer before you apply, check out a transfer guide from the college you want to attend. This document is typically provided by the admissions office. Also, check out the schools website because they will have transfer information there and they may even have the transfer guide too.

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Featured Schools

UMass Global

  • MA in Organizational Leadership
  • BA in Communications & Media
  • AA (General Education)

Which subject are you interested in?

National University

  • DBA - General Business
  • MAPsy - General Psychology
  • EdS - Curriculum and Teaching

What is your highest level of education?

Wake Forest University - School of Professional Studies

  • Master of Communications
  • Master of Health Administration
  • Digital Marketing and Analytics Certificate
  • Project Management Certificate

Which subject are you interested in?

Full Sail University

  • Game Design Masters - Campus
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What is your highest level of education?

Liberty University

  • DCJ: Leadership
  • PHD: Psychology: Theology
  • BS: Strategic Communication: Strategic Communications
  • AS: Physics
  • GRAD CERT: Fundamentals of Communication

What is your highest level of education?

Purdue Global

  • Master of Science - DNP Executive Leader
  • M.S. in Health Education
  • Undergraduate in Legal Studies
  • AASBA in Business
  • Human Services - Child and Family Services Certificate

Which subject are you interested in?

Fordham University

  • Master of Studies in Law in Corporate Compliance

Are you located in the U.S.?

Grand Canyon University

  • Bridge (Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision - Qualitative Research)
  • MA in Curriculum and Instruction
  • Bachelor: Communications

What is your highest level of education?