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Most U.S. college students aren’t taking the credits needed to graduate on time, despite research showing the significant benefits of doing so – including better academic performance, higher retention rates and the increased likelihood of degree completion. �������� is joining colleges and universities across the country to change that trend using advertising campaigns, advisor engagement and new institutional policies and practices. The 15 to Finish campaign encourages students who can, to take at least 15 credit hours a semester, graduate on time and start earning faster.

What’s the problem?

The math is clear. To graduate on time, students must take at least 15 credits per semester or 30 credits per year. But even most U.S. full-time students are taking credit loads that put them on a five-year plan for a bachelor’s degree. Federal financial aid policies requiring students to enroll in just 12 credits each semester to qualify for assistance create a standard that 12 credits means “full-time.” But students who register for only 12 credits, or less than 15 each semester, often graduate late and rack up unnecessary time and debt in the process. Each extra semester comes with a cost, and the longer it takes, the more life gets in the way – decreasing the likelihood students will successfully earn their degree.

Why take 15 or more credit hours each semester?

• An average of 15 hours per term helps ensure graduation in four years.
• The cost of tuition and fees is the same for a course load ranging from 12 to 20 credit hours so taking 15 or more is a better value.
• Students who register for more than 15 hours per semester have the flexibility to drop a course when necessary without getting behind.
• Taking 15 or more credit hours often provides students with the opportunity to add a minor or certificate.
• Students who take longer than four years to graduate accrue more debt and may lose income as a result of delayed graduation.

What if I cannot take 15 or more credit hours each semester?

Sometimes work, family, finances, or health concerns stand in the way of students taking 15 hours per semester. �������� wants to meet the needs of students regardless of their circumstances and understands the life demands that might prevent someone from taking 15 hours per term. “We realize that not all students are able to take 15 or more credit hours every term, but we recommend that whenever possible, students do take at least 15 hours to be on track to graduate in four years,” said Jenny Klein, assistant dean for student success and academic persistence.  

Find out more at /uc/advising/15-finish.