Frequently Asked Questions

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 universities and colleges, whether on-campus or online. Learn more about online tuition and fees. 

As an additional benefit, Ashford University offers course materials and reduced tuition and fees to Active Duty, National Guard, Reservists, and their spouses, as well as to DoD and Coast Guard employees and any student using VA Education Benefits. Learn more about the Ashford University Military Tuition Grant and eligibility.  

Can I transfer all the credits I have earned from other schools I attended?
You'll be thrilled to learn that students seeking a Bachelor's degree at Ashford may transfer up to 90 approved credits* of previous coursework. Once you are enrolled, Ashford University will request your Joint Services Transcript (JST) and complete an evaluation to determine which credits are applicable to your program. Learn more about transferring credits.  

* Please note that transferring credits is always subject to Ashford University transfer credit policies, and requires the submission of official transcripts. The official transcripts will be evaluated to determine the credits that will officially apply toward an Ashford University degree program.

Will my military or other prior work experience transfer as credit?
Yes, there are 3 different ways in which additional credits may be applied toward your degree program. 

1) The Ashford University Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Program allows you to earn credit for college-level learning that occurs outside a traditional classroom setting while pursuing a baccalaureate degree. The PLA program is managed by the Director of Prior Learning Assessment and complies fully with Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) standards for excellence. 
2) Transfer up to 75 credits* from approved National Testing Programs, such as CLEP (College Level Exam Program) and DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests). 
3) Military and training experience is of great value and may also help you get closer to a degree. Transfer up to 75 military credits* at Ashford University where efforts and experience in the military are recognized.

* Please note that transferring credits is always subject to Ashford University transfer credit policies, and requires the submission of official transcripts. The 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?
As a member or veteran of the armed forces, you will have the opportunity to receive up to 75 credits from military experience and training which may reduce the time it will take you to achieve your Bachelor's degree. Students who enroll in a Bachelor's degree program with zero transfer credits and stay continuously enrolled can expect to finish their Bachelor's 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 60 semester credits and stay continuously enrolled, you could finish in two years.

Courses 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 every week.

Is there any way that I can graduate is less than four years?
Yes! First and foremost an evaluation of previous military schools and experience gives you a head start on your education goals. Since you may earn up to 75 semester credits* for previous experience, many active duty military and veterans start working directly on the major courses or finish general education requirements.

Another way is to transfer in credits from previous coursework. As a member of the military, many take advantage of national testing programs such as CLEP and DSST. After you discuss the reduced cost of college testing for eligible service members with your base Education Counselor, Ashford University will have advisors work with you to determine an effective plan to minimize your effort for completing your degree.

You may also choose to take two classes at once if you meet the requirements of our Concurrent Course Registration Policy. Work with your Military Admissions Counselor and Student Advisor to learn more about this option or reference the Academic Catalog for more information. 

Another way to speed your completion 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. The PLA Documentation Guide will provide you with more information.

* Please note that transferring credits is always subject to Ashford University transfer credit policies, and requires the submission of official transcripts. The official transcripts will be evaluated to determine the credits that will officially apply toward an Ashford University degree program.

Is Ashford University an accredited school? What is the difference between regional and national accreditation?
Yes, Ashford University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association (www.ncahlc.org). Ashford University has been placed on notice by the Higher Learning Commission. For more information, click here. 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 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 assigned texts, access course digital materials, and submit your assignments all through the online learning platform.

How often do I need to participate in my online class?
Students taking online courses at Ashford are expected to attend every week of the course. Attendance is defined as posting in a graded discussion forum or submitting a written assignment, journal entry, quiz, or exam. 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 or course grade.

In addition, you must meet minimum attendance requirements. 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 toa void being administratively withdrawn. 

Failure to meet academic participation requirements may negatively impact an assignment and/or course grade.

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 minimum attendance and academic participation requirements for your courses.

What assistance does Ashford University offer to students who need extra academic support?
You will have your own personal Military Admissions Counselor who will support you through the entire process, and to whom you can direct your questions. You will find all your instructors very understanding, supportive, and easy to contact. Since Ashford University's online degree programs are specifically designed for adult learners, these academic support systems are built in to help you succeed in your classes.

Do I have to complete my 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.

Will I be able to use my military education benefits, veterans' benefits or financial aid to pay for my education?
If you are eligible for Military Tuition Assistance and/or veterans education benefits, you will have the opportunity to work with one of our experienced Military Financial Services Advisors to move through the process.

To determine your eligibility for military tuition assistance please consult your base education office. While you are there, many education offices provide scholarship and grant information specifically created for service members, spouses and DoD employees.

If you find you still need additional assistance, Ashford's Military Financial Services Advisors can determine whether you can benefit from the various financial aid options offered. Financial aid programs include the Federal Stafford Loan, the Federal PLUS Loan and in some cases, the Federal Pell Grant.

How does the commencement 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. Remember that all students, both on campus and online, are required to submit the appropriate paperwork to petition to graduate. View the graduation page to learn more.

What if I want to talk to a real human being and get more information?
Call us today toll-free at 1.800.877.1192. An experienced Military Admissions Counselor is ready for your call.

Frequently Asked Questions