Block transfer is the acceptance of a defined group of courses or an entire credential as a single unit that satisfies a set of requirements at the receiving institution.
How it works
The student completes the defined block at the sending institution and submits an official transcript. The receiving institution verifies completion of the block and posts the corresponding credit or requirement satisfaction in the degree audit. Remaining requirements-typically upper-division major courses and residency-are then completed at the receiving institution. Updates to the block composition require agreement revisions.
Example: a statewide policy grants block transfer of 60 credits and junior standing to any student who completes a designated associate degree. An online university participating in the policy posts the 60-credit block and requires only the remaining 60 credits in the major and electives.
How it differs
Course-by-course transfer evaluates each class separately and can result in elective-only credit. Block transfer applies a pre-negotiated package. Prior-learning assessment evaluates experience rather than completed college coursework.
Common errors
Assuming block transfer satisfies major requirements as well as general education. Expecting partial completion of a block to receive partial block credit. Applying an outdated block agreement after curriculum changes.
References
- 1. Institutional block-transfer policiesAcceptance of entire credential blocks
- 2. Statewide transfer blocksGeneral-education and associate-degree blocks
Block transfer is the acceptance of a defined group of courses or an entire credential as a single unit that satisfies a set of requirements at the receiving institution.