Navigating the Challenges of Transferring Harvard Extension School Credits to Harvard College

Transferring credits from Harvard Extension School (HES) to Harvard College (Harvard) is a complex process, given the unique policies and requirements of each institution. This article aims to guide you through the intricacies involved in transferring credits, providing an overview of the policies, procedures, and necessary steps.

Transfer Policies and Procedures

Harvard College, much like other selective institutions, ensures a rigorous evaluation of transfer credits. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Transfer Policies: Each school within Harvard, including Harvard College, may have different policies on the acceptance of transfer credits. Harvard College typically demands that transfer students must complete a significant portion of their degree requirements at Harvard College itself. This makes transferring credits from HES to Harvard College challenging.

2. Course Equivalence: If you decide to take courses at HES, you must demonstrate that these courses are equivalent to those offered at Harvard College. This often involves going through a thorough review process by academic advisors and departmental committees.

Application and Evaluation Process

The process of transferring credits from HES to Harvard College is complex and varies depending on your situation and the courses you have completed.

1. Application Process: If you are accepted to Harvard College, you should inquire specifically about the credit transfer process at that time. Harvard College may have guidelines or a formal process for evaluating transfer credits, which should be detailed in your acceptance package.

2. Advising: It is extremely advisable to speak with an academic advisor both at Harvard Extension School and Harvard College. These advisors can provide tailored advice based on your specific situation and help you understand the best courses of action.

3. Documentation: If you do apply for transfer credit, be prepared to provide substantial documentation. This includes syllabi, course descriptions, and any other relevant paperwork that supports your credit transfer request. This documentation will help in demonstrating the equivalency of the courses taken at HES to those at Harvard College.

Key Points to Consider and Policies

Harvard University has always been vigilant about preventing the use of HES as a "back door" into Harvard College. Therefore, Harvard policy explicitly states that no one can transfer from HES into Harvard College. As an extension of this policy, Harvard College will not accept transfer credits from any extension school or community college, including HES. This means you must apply either as an incoming freshman or as a transfer student to attend Harvard College.

While credits from HES are not accepted for transfer to Harvard College, they are accepted by other well-known colleges and universities. These institutions provide detailed information on their credit transfer policies and evaluation processes on their websites.

Conclusion: Despite the challenges, it is possible to transfer some credits from HES to other institutions. However, transferring credits to Harvard College remains highly unlikely. For the most accurate and detailed guidance, it is essential to consult both institutions' policies and seek the advice of academic advisors.

References:

Harvard University's Official Website on Transfer Credits Guidelines for International Students at Harvard FAQs about Credit Transfer Policies at Harvard College