List of Colleges That Accept ACE Credits in 2026

Specific school transfer credit policies range by institution, but many accredited universities accept ACE credits. This can help students save time and money on their degrees.

As more students seek to leverage their nontraditional learning experiences, many colleges and universities are recognizing the value of American Council on Education (ACE) credits. There are a growing number of colleges that accept ACE credits, allowing students to gain academic recognition for military training, workplace skills, and certifications.

These credits can help college students save time and money on their degrees. Below is a list of colleges that embrace ACE transfer credits, allowing students to maximize their previous learning experiences.

What Are ACE Credits?

Most universities accept transfer credits from other universities, technical colleges, or community colleges; however, some schools also accept college credit for nontraditional learning experiences, such as workplace training, military service, or certifications. These credits are evaluated by the American Council on Education and help students complete their degrees quickly, which helps lower the financial burden many college students face.

‍ACE transcripts provide documentation of these credits, which may be applicable for college credit or advanced placement. Acceptance of ACE transfer credits varies by institution, so it's important for students to verify how these credits can be utilized at their selected colleges.

List of Colleges & Universities That Accept ACE Credits

For those with learning experiences beyond high school, finding colleges that accept ACE credits can help you get ahead in your academic path. Keep reading to explore accredited colleges that accept ACE credits.

1. University of Maryland Global Campus

The University of Maryland Global Campus offers many programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Students can pursue fields, such as:

• computer science

• criminal justice

• psychology

• data science

Undergraduate tuition for in-state residents is $324 per credit hour. Military members receive a discounted rate, only paying $250 per credit hour. Fortunately, the school has generous transfer and ACE policies, allowing students to complete their undergraduate degrees quickly and affordably. Students can receive credit for prior learning, work experience, or military experience.

2. Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers in-person and online education opportunities at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Students may earn a bachelor's or master's degree in over 70 majors, from applied data science to landscape architecture. Tuition for Colorado undergraduates is $13,373 per year. Online students pay slightly less with tuition costing $11,888.

Students seeking to earn a degree quickly can do so through ACE credits, including military experience. Military applicants must submit transcripts from their military branch - the Army, Marines, or Coast Guard - to the Registrar's office. Departments may have specific standards around major courses, though these credits may be used for elective classes.

3. Florida State University

Florida State University is a large, public school with around 100 bachelor's degree programs and over 160 master's and doctoral programs. Students can study face-to-face at multiple campus locations or take online courses. Undergraduate tuition for Florida residents is $215.55 per credit hour, while out-of-state students pay $721.10.

The school accepts ACE credits for military training and courses. After acceptance to the university, the Registrar's Office evaluates official military transcripts to determine credit. Other types of transfer credits may also be considered.

4. University of Alaska Anchorage

The University of Alaska Anchorage offers over 100 programs across various fields, including business, engineering, and health science. Tuition for Alaska undergraduates is $241 per credit hour. Several types of financial aid are available, including loans, grants, and scholarships.

The school also considers military credit for service members, allowing them to transfer their military training and experience into academic credits, which can accelerate their degree completion. The University of Alaska Anchorage is committed to student success and provides advising and learning support resources, ensuring a smooth transition to civilian academic life.

5. University of Alaska Fairbanks

The University of Alaska Fairbanks has many bachelor's degree options. Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, these academic programs have robust curriculums that prepare students for the workforce.

Tuition is affordable for residents, only costing $289 per credit hour. Students can transfer credits from accredited colleges to help complete their degrees faster. The school also recognizes military credit, allowing service members to transfer their training and experience into academic credits.

6. Virginia Tech University

Virginia Tech University is a top research institution offering on-campus degrees and online programs. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the acceptance rate was only 57% in 2023. While the admissions process is competitive, it's test-optional and there are no minimum GPAs required.

In-state tuition for undergraduates is $13,152 per year. Financial aid can help lower costs. Additionally, military members can submit Joint Services Transcripts (JST) and Air University/Community College of the Air Force transcripts for college credit.

7. Western Governors University (WGU)

Western Governors University is a distance learning institution that offers a self-paced learning style. This type of higher education format allows motivated students to complete their degrees quickly and affordably. Tuition is a flat rate of $3,825 per sixth-month term and students can complete as many credits as they wish.

Students can finish their degrees even faster with ACE credits. Students should submit their military transcripts after acceptance. If questions arise, enrollment counselors are available to help with this process.

8. Liberty University

Liberty University is a private Christian school based in Virginia and has extensive fully online degree programs at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Tuition for online programs is $390 per credit hour, while on-campus programs cost $24,650 per year. Financial aid is available and can help lower these costs.

Students can transfer up to 90 credits toward their bachelor's degree, which can also make college more affordable. Military training and coursework can count toward transfer credits. All military experience credits are awarded based on ACE credit recommendations.

9. Capella University

Capella University offers many online degree programs that cater to adult learners. Students can pursue degrees in fields such as business, education, health care, and information technology. Tuition is $510 per credit hour for undergraduates.

The school has a flexible credit transfer policy that allows students to transfer previously earned credits from accredited institutions, including military training and experience. To transfer credits, students can have Capella request transcripts on their behalf during the admissions process. Up to 135 credits out of the required 180 may be transferred in.

10. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University has many online degree programs, as well as in-person learning opportunities. Students can choose from many subjects, such as:

• finance

• nursing

• public health

• cybersecurity

Undergraduate tuition is set at $330 per credit hour, and applicants can apply for financial aid to assist with these expenses. Students can transfer up to 90 credits toward a bachelor's degree program, including credits for military experience.

Most colleges that accept military credits also provide support for students during the enrollment process - and Southern New Hampshire is no exception. Knowledgeable university staff members with a military background are available to assist students throughout the process.

FAQs About ACE College Credit

Degree seekers may have questions about ACE college credit. Below, we'll dive deeper into this topic to answer common questions.

Do Universities Accept Ace Credits?

Yes, most in-person and online colleges that accept max transfer credits take nontraditional credits, such as ACE credits. It's essential for students to check with individual institutions regarding their specific credit transfer policies.

What Schools Accept Study.com Credits?

Higher education organizations like Straighterline, Sophia Learning, and Study.com have been evaluated and recommended by the American Council on Education. In fact, over 1,500 schools have accepted Study.com credits based on ACE credit recommendations. Some of the colleges that accept Study.com credits include:

• American Public University

• Indiana Institute of Technology

• University of Florida

• Charter Oak State College

• American Business and Technology University

• Western Governors University

• University of Arizona Global Campus

• Excelsior University

• Ohio State University

Some schools may only accept certain credits; others are partner schools that guarantee acceptance for all courses. Make sure to check with your school to determine which courses will transfer.

What Schools Accept ECPI Credits?

ECPI University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), therefore, many schools accept ECPI credits. Students should check with individual institutions regarding their transfer policies to ensure their college credits will transfer.

How Do I Order an Official Ace Transcript?

You can request transcripts for the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard through the Joint Service Transcript (JST). If you completed coursework through the Community College of the Air Force (CCAF), you'll need to request transcripts from this organization.

Explore College Degree Programs

Transferring ACE credits can get you closer to your bachelor's degree. Fortunately, many schools accept this type of credit. Explore the schools on Finish Forward  and contact them directly for more information.