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Get transfer credit at another post-secondary education institution for programs or courses completed at Sask Polytech.  There are two types of transfer credit:

  1. Block transfer credit (or advanced standing) occurs when graduates of Sask Polytech programs receive credit for a large portion or all courses completed within that program towards a program at another institution. 
    • Block transfer credit is more common between related programs (e.g., between two human services programs).
    • Students may need to take additional courses (i.e., bridging courses) to complete the program at the other institution. Bridging courses are completed prior to admission or after conditional admission, usually in the first year.

  2. Course-by-course transfer credit occurs when students who have completed Sask Polytech courses receive credit for individual courses at another institution with courses considered equivalent.
    • Equivalent courses cover similar content and learning outcomes. To qualify, previous course(s) must have been completed at a post-secondary level with an equal or greater credit value. Course equivalency is determined by Sask Polytech program faculty.
Examples:
  • Block transfer credit: the Justice Studies diploma (for graduates with a minimum GPA of 2.0) is accepted for two year’s credit toward Lethbridge Polytechnic’s Bachelor of Criminal Justice.
  • Course-by-course transfer credit: the Human Growth and Development course (HUMD 188) at Sask Polytech, is accepted for transfer credit for the University of Regina’s Developmental Psychology course (PSYC 210).

Eligibility

Getting transfer credit for Sask Polytech programs and courses at another institution may be an option if you:
  • Are admitted to a program at another institution.
  • Meet the minimum grade point average.
    • Some programs require a minimum grade point average (GPA) for block transfer credit or post-diploma admission because applicants with lower GPAs may not succeed in advanced courses. Minimum GPA requirements vary by program, and should be reviewed carefully.
  • Completed an accredited program (for some programs).
    • In many post-diploma health or technology degree programs, the diploma program must be accredited by an industry standards organization (e.g., Transportation Association of Canda or Canadian Technology Accreditation Board). Review admission requirements carefully.
  • Completed your program or courses within the required timeframe.
    • Some institutions set a time limit for transfer credit (e.g., a program or courses must have been completed within the last five years).

Process

1. Learn what to expect at different institutions 

Transfer credit varies widely across institutions, so read information and directions carefully. Here are some common elements to look for:

Resources:

  • Many institutions have online searchable databases of approved transfer credit from other institutions. They may also have academic advisors to answer questions.

Fees:

  • There may be no additional charge to assess a certificate or diploma for block credit (advance standing) or admission. Many institutions, however, charge fees for course transfer assessment.

International education:

  • An IQAS or WES assessment may be required to indicate equivalency of an international credential to a Canadian certificate, diploma, or degree in the same field. Transfer credit fees may also be higher for studies completed outside of Canada.

Residency limit:

  • Most institutions limit how much of a program can be completed with transfer credit. The portion that must be completed with courses taken from the program’s institution (e.g., 25 - 50 per cent) may be referred to as a “residency requirement”. Residency, in this context, typically includes courses taken either by distance or on-campus.
2. Identify potential programs that fit your further education goal

Use School Finder to identify potential programs that fit your desired field, credential level and delivery method (online, on-campus, blended, co-op, etc.).

3. Review Sask Polytech transfer opportunities

Review the list of established transfer credit opportunities by partner institution and/or program name.

  • If there is a transfer credit opportunity in place for your desired program/school, ask your program head for  details. Some transfer credit opportunities require a minimum grade point average (GPA) to receive block credit.
4. Review transfer credit process at other institutions

All institutions asses transfer credit for individual applicants, even without an established transfer credit opportunity with Sask Polytech.

  1. Go to the institution’s home page and type transfer credit in the search bar.

  2. Look for a searchable database of transfer credit. If there is one, search for Saskatchewan Polytechnic (or SIAST). A Sask Polytech course or program will not be listed if it has not been assessed before, but you can still request transfer credit for it.

  3. Look for and carefully read directions and forms. They may differ for course-by-course transfer, block transfer credit or advanced standing. Terms used may also vary across institutions.

  4. If the institution has an academic advisor, contact them with any questions.
5. Apply 
  1. Apply for admission to the school and program you chose.

  2. Submit your Sask Polytech transcript when you apply for admission.

  3. Look for directions to submit a transfer credit form, course outlines, or fees (if required). Follow those directions to apply for transfer credit.

  4. Please email the details of any transfer credit you receive to your program head and to learnerpathways@saskpolytech.ca. If we can track the trails you blaze, other students can follow.

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