Welcome to the Bachelor of Arts at the University of Guelph! Although you are not new to post-secondary education, it is likely that you will have questions.

Understanding your transfer credits

There are two types of transfer credit: specified and generic. A specified credit is granted when a course you've taken at another post-secondary institution is comparable or equivalent to a course that we offer at the University of Guelph. A generic credit is granted when you're eligible for degree-level credit, but the content of the course you've taken doesn't align with a University of Guelph course.

To help you understand your transfer credit assessment, it's important to know what course numbers mean and where to find course descriptions. Each course is identified by a two-part code. The first part of the code refers to the subject area, the second to the level of the course. Courses in the 1000 series are mainly for first year students, those in the 2000 series are mainly for second year students, and those in the 3000 series are for third year students. Course descriptions can be found in the Undergraduate Calendar. Course numbers beginning with 9 (e.g. PSYC*9110, ENGL*9210) are generic credits.

To understand exactly how your transfer credits will apply to degree requirements, it is recommended that you book an appointment with a program counsellor.

Below is a list of the most frequently asked.

How do my transfer credits fit into my new program?

Transfer credits become part of your completed course work. How they fit into your new program will depend on the type of credit you have been given. Look at the Schedule of Studies for your major in the Undergraduate Calendar. Compare those courses to the transfer credits on your Letter of Admission. If the transfer credit is exactly the same course code, then you have met that requirement. If there is not an exact equivalent the course may then count as an elective.

In some cases, a course for which there is no exact equivalent may be able to count as a restricted elective or substitution. If you feel that may be a possibility consult the Faculty Advisor for your major.

Where do I find a list of my required courses?

You can find the required courses for your major in the BA section of the Undergraduate Calendar . The Schedule of Studies that you are required to follow is determined by the calendar year for which you have been admitted.

The course codes listed in the Schedule of Studies are linked to the calendar description. The course description will tell you which semester a course is offered in S=Summer, F=Fall, W=Winter; the credit weight of the course (usually [0.50]); provide a brief description of the course and list any prerequisites or restrictions for the course.

How long will it take me to graduate?

In order to graduate with a University of Guelph Honours BA Degree students are required to complete a minimum of 20 credits, including required courses for the major and free electives. As transfer credits are included in your total credits earned, you may need to complete more than 20 credits to satisfy your degree requirements. How long it will take to graduate will therefore depend on the number and type of transfer credits granted.

How do I pick my courses?

Students pick their courses via WebAdvisor. WebAdvisor allows students to drop and add courses, look at their schedule, obtain final grades and unofficial transcripts.

When do I pick my courses?

Once you have accepted your Offer of Admission you will be contacted by Enrolment Services with details on the course selection process. Details on this are available here.

Where do I find information on dates, fees, regulations etc.?

The Undergraduate Calendar is a comprehensive on-line publication that contains all this information and more. It is a good starting point if you are looking for information. Each administrative and academic department on campus has a webpage that can be accessed by starting at the main University of Guelph page.

Where can I get more supports at U of G as a transfer student?

Please see our Student Experience Transfer Student resources supports.