Online FAQ

How much will a degree from Ashford University® cost me?
You'll find the affordable cost per credit hour is much less than most traditional private universities and colleges, whether on-ground or online.
Click here for complete tuition information.

Can I transfer all the credits I have earned from other schools I attended?
You'll be thrilled to learn that you can transfer up to 90 credits of previous coursework toward your Bachelor's degree at Ashford University. Talk to an Admissions Counselor to find out how your credits can transfer. Learn more here about transferring credits.
Please note that transferring credits is always subject to Ashford University transfer credit policies, and requires the submission of official transcripts. Your official transcripts will be evaluated to determine the credits that will officially apply toward an Ashford University degree program.

How long will it take me to earn my degree?
Students who enroll in a Bachelor's degree program with zero transfer credits and stay continuously enrolled can expect to finish their degree in four years. Many students who transfer in a large number of credits from previous schools often graduate in a much shorter time frame. For example, if you transfer in 60 semester credits and stay continuously enrolled, you could finish in two years.

Classes run continuously, rather than in semesters. Typically, you take one course at a time and move on to the next course without a break. Opportunities to enroll and begin a course sequence in a degree program are available almost every week.
Is there any way that I can graduate faster than the regular four years?
Yes! One way is to transfer in credits from previous coursework. In some cases, you may also choose to take two classes at once, if you qualify after completing your first two classes online. Work with your Admissions Counselor and Academic Advisor to learn more about this option.
Another way to speed your success is to turn your work and life experience into transferable credits through Prior Learning Assessment (PLA). From work training, workshops, and other sources, you can earn credit for nontraditional learning experiences. You may transfer in up to 30 PLA credits into a Bachelor’s degree program. Click on the PLA Documentation Guide for more information.

Is Ashford University an accredited school? What is the difference between regional and national accreditation?
Yes, Ashford University is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association (www.ncahlc.org). National accreditation is primarily limited to vocational or trade schools. Regional accreditors typically certify more traditional universities that offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

How do Ashford University's online classes work?
Your online classes will take place in Ashford University's online platform. The online learning platform is an asynchronous environment, meaning that you can log in at any time at your convenience. You will communicate with your instructor and fellow students, talk about diverse topics via discussion boards, read some assigned texts, access some course digital materials, and submit your assignments all through the online learning platform.

How often do I need to participate in my online course?
Students taking online courses at Ashford are expected to attend every week of the course. Students are required to academically participate by actively engaging in weekly discussion forums with substantial posts, and by completing required written assignments, quizzes, and tests on time. In most cases, you should expect to academically participate in your course at least two times per week. Failure to meet academic participation requirements may negatively impact an assignment and/or course grade.

In addition, you must meet our minimum attendance requirements. Attendance is defined as posting in a graded discussion forum, or submitting a written assignment, quiz or exam. Students enrolled in undergraduate introductory courses must attend at least once in any seven consecutive day period. Students enrolled in non-introductory courses must attend at least once in any fourteen consecutive day period in order to avoid being administratively withdrawn.

Do I have to participate at a specific time?
No, you get to choose when and where to log in for participation in your class, which allows you to fit your class requirements into your busy schedule. Your online classroom takes place in an asynchronous environment, which means that you are free to participate at your own pace, so long as you meet the attendance and academic participation requirements for your courses.

What assistance does Ashford University offer to students who need extra academic support?
If you are like most Ashford University online students, then you are probably a working adult, and maybe it has been some time since you took a college-level class. Have no fear! Ashford University's online degree programs are specifically designed for adult learners. You will have your own personal Academic Advisor who will support you through the entire process, and help answer many of your questions. Your instructors strive to be very understanding, supportive, and easy to contact.

Do I have to complete an Associate's degree before I can start an Ashford University Bachelor's degree program?
No. You can enroll in an online Associate's or Bachelor's degree program at Ashford University if you meet all of our admission requirements, even if you have never attended a college or university before.

How does my degree from Ashford compare to degrees from other schools?
Your degree from Ashford University is equally valuable, accepted, and honorable as any equivalent degree you could earn from another accredited school or university, whether on a traditional campus or online. The only difference between a degree from Ashford University and a degree from another school is the money and time you'll save through Ashford University.

Is it true that I can get a degree for free?
Not at all. There is no such thing as a university education that is free of charge. Almost all students choose to apply for student loans, which do have to be re-paid. The idea that you can go to a four-year university for free is a persistent misconception. Some students receive small grants and scholarships, but these are relatively rare and almost never cover the full cost of tuition, even at a highly affordable institution like Ashford University.

Do I qualify for Financial Aid?
You will partner with a Financial Services Advisor to determine whether you can benefit from the various Financial Aid options offered. Financial Aid programs include Federal Direct Loans, the Federal PLUS Loan, and in some cases, the Federal Pell Grant.

How does the graduation ceremony work for online students?
No matter where you live, you are invited to participate in commencement ceremonies held at our campus in Clinton, Iowa. If you are visiting from out of town, you are responsible for arranging your own travel and accommodations. This link provides you with some travel and hotel information. Remember that all students, both on campus and online, are required to submit the appropriate paperwork to graduate. Click here for more information on graduation.

How do I request an official transcript?
To request a transcript from Ashford University, please visit the Transcript Request page. If you were a student at the former Bridgepoint Education / TeleUniversity, dba Charter Learning / Advanced Learning Network and need to request an official transcript, please click here to complete and return the appropriate form.

What if I want to talk to a real human being and get more information?
No problem! Don't wait; call us today toll-free at 1.866.711.1700. An experienced Admissions Counselor is ready for your call.