Semester Credits Required
Total degree credits / semesters remaining = credits per semester.
Result
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How to use this calculator
- Enter degree total + completed.
- Enter semesters remaining.
About this calculator
Most US bachelor's degrees require 120 credits over 8 semesters = 15 credits/semester average. Full-time enrollment: ≥12 credits (Pell Grant + most loans assume full-time). Above 18 = overload (need approval). Summer enrollment can compress timeline. Also consider: prerequisite chains (some courses only offered specific semesters), capstone/thesis credits, electives vs. core.
Frequently asked
Standard load?+
15 credits/semester to graduate in 8 semesters (120 credits). 12 credits = "full-time"; below = part-time, may lose financial aid.
Summer school?+
Compresses timeline. 6-credit summer = halve a semester. Adds cost but graduates faster.
Overload approval?+
Above 18 typically requires Dean's approval. Some schools cap at 21.
Master's programs?+
Typically 30-60 credits over 2 years (15-30/yr). PhDs vary widely.
Credit transfer?+
Community college transfers, AP/IB tests, CLEP exams reduce credits needed. Check articulation agreements.
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New cumulative GPA = (current cum × completed credits + semester GPA × new credits) / total.
Study Hours Per Credit (Weekly Load)
Weekly study load = credits × hours per credit. Standard 2-3 hr study per credit hour.
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