Study more than 16 years old

The OU does not consider study completed more than 16 years ago for credit transfer towards an Open University qualification.

Students who complete their whole qualification by studying with the OU can count credit that is a maximum of 16 years old at the point they complete their qualification. We want students transferring credit from outside the OU to also be able to use credit that is up to 16 years old at the point they transferred their studies to us.

The University wants to strike the right balance between promoting life-long learning and ensuring the currency of its qualifications. This policy brings us more closely into line with other institutions, which tend to have more restrictive policies. It is common for other universities only to offer credit transfer for study completed in the last five years. We hope that even though you are not eligible for credit transfer you will still consider studying with us.

Find out more about studying with the OU.