If you’ve taken college classes in the past—whether two semesters or two years’ worth—you’ve probably wondered what happened to those credits. Do they still count? Can you use them? Or are they just expensive memories?
Too often, students returning to college after a break discover the same frustrating truth: their old credits are ignored, expired, or simply not accepted. It’s one of the least talked-about failures of higher education—and one of the biggest reasons adults give up on finishing their degrees.
At Newlane University, we believe that your past efforts deserve recognition.
The Hidden Crisis of “Orphan Credits”
In the U.S., more than 39 million people have some college but no degree. Many of them walked away from school not because they couldn’t handle the academics, but because of life: jobs, kids, finances, or health.
But when they try to return, they’re told their credits are too old. Or they don’t “match” the new school’s requirements. Or they simply aren’t from the right kind of institution.
These “orphan credits” represent real time, real learning, and real money. Yet they’re often discarded without a second thought.
That’s why we’ve created a process to help students transfer credits quickly so they can build on what they’ve already accomplished.
Starting Over Shouldn’t Be the Only Option
Imagine a nurse who took anatomy and physiology 10 years ago. Or a working dad who passed English comp and statistics in 2008. These students shouldn’t have to start from scratch—especially when the knowledge is still relevant.
The problem isn’t the students. The problem is a rigid, outdated system.
Newlane takes a different approach. Our official transfer credit policy ensures students can apply as much of their past learning as possible. We don’t penalize you for learning outside traditional timelines.
We also offer a clear step-by-step process for transferring credits, so you know exactly how to move forward.
Making Degree Completion Possible
This isn’t just about convenience. It’s about justice.
When we honor your previous work, we shorten your time to graduation. We validate your effort. And we help you cross the finish line without re-running the entire race.
By transferring college credits to Newlane, many students save months—if not years—off their degree path.
Just ask Kristin Harris, who transferred 75 credits and finished her bachelor’s degree while balancing work and family.
If you’re carrying college credit from a past chapter in life, you deserve a school that sees it—and sees you.
Your education has already started. Let’s help you finish it.
