Credit Transfer and Recognition

Recognition of Learning Outcomes and Credit Transfer

Under Erasmus+ programme requirements, learning outcomes and credits obtained at a university abroad are recognised at EHU on the basis of the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) and the University’s procedures for recognising learning outcomes.

If the Learning Agreement and any amendments were approved in good time, and the agreed courses were successfully completed, the learning outcomes and ECTS credits earned are fully recognised at EHU. Students are not required to take additional assessments for courses that were agreed upon and successfully completed.

What is ECTS?

ECTS is the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System. It helps universities coordinate study periods and recognise learning outcomes achieved abroad.

ECTS credits reflect the student workload required to achieve the intended learning outcomes. This includes lectures, seminars, practical classes, independent study and assessments.

• 60 ECTS credits represent the workload of one academic year of full-time study.
• 30 ECTS credits represent the workload of one semester of full-time study.

Credits are awarded upon successful completion of the course requirements and achievement of the intended learning outcomes.

Agreeing on Courses Before Departure

Before starting their studies abroad, students must agree on their courses with their study programme coordinator at EHU and sign a Learning Agreement with the sending and receiving institutions.

The Learning Agreement specifies the courses to be taken abroad, the number of credits and how they will be recognised at EHU. Any changes to the course selection during the mobility period must be approved by both institutions in good time.

Credit and Grade Recognition After Returning

After completing their studies abroad, students must submit a Transcript of Records issued by the receiving university. It must list the courses completed, credits earned and grades received.

Learning outcomes are recognised on the basis of the approved Learning Agreement and any amendments. Recognised learning outcomes and credits are entered into the student’s academic records and Diploma Supplement.

If the receiving university uses a different credit system, students must provide information explaining its relationship to ECTS. If the Transcript of Records does not explain the grading system, a description of that system must also be provided.

The study programme coordinator at EHU provides advice on course approval, credit recognition and grade conversion.

Grade Conversion

Different countries and universities use different grading systems. Grades obtained abroad are converted according to EHU’s procedures, taking into account the receiving university’s grading system and the information provided.

ECTS credits reflect workload, not grades. Grade conversion and credit recognition are therefore separate processes.

* The lowest passing grade is 5 (“Sufficient”).

Note: the table provides an indicative comparison of grades. Grades obtained abroad are converted according to EHU’s procedures and the receiving university’s grading system.

Further information about ECTS is available on the European Commission website.