QAA publishes deep-dive report on achieving credit transfer at scale

Last year, we published a piece of research which charted the current state of play on credit transfer across the UK. This new study examines why it is that way and what might be done to instigate change. With the Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE) formally launching in September 2026 and high ambitions for flexible, lifelong learning across government and the sector, improving how students can move between institutions is particularly timely. 

Our latest report was based on extensive stakeholder engagement, including a survey of sector perspectives, and a series of stakeholder conversations and focus groups involving representatives both of providers and of Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Bodies (PSRBs). 

Eighty-four per cent of survey respondents agreed that a sector-owned framework would be helpful to achieve credit transfer at scale. However, opinions were more divided when it came to whether there was a realistic prospect of the development of a sector-wide system for credit transfer. 

Our research also identified the most significant barriers, as perceived by participants, to achieving credit transfer at scale. These included minimal strategic incentives for providers to engage with credit transfer, cultural aversions to accepting credit from other institutions at face value, and the complexity and burden of credit transfer processes. 

The research also explores the debate around student demand for credit transfer, the role of accredited provision and what can be learned from degree apprenticeships.

But the research drew out potential solutions too. Providers are enthusiastic about making this process simpler for applicants and increasing transparency, and there is demand for sector-wide support on improving credit transfer approaches. While it is clear that a comprehensive credit transfer system will not emerge in the short-term, articulation agreements and regional consortia provide a useful evidence base about how providers can collaborate to deliver smoother pathways for students between their respective institutions. 

Helena Vine, QAA's Lead Policy Officer for England, said: "Our research last year covered the what, but this new report really digs into the why. Credit transfer generates dividing views across the sector, but it's clear that providers want to support students for whom it offers the best route and that there are some easy wins for the sector to make the whole process easier on applicants. As for credit transfer at scale? I think it'll take an external impetus to get there – but with the LLE arriving soon and competition for students increasing, that might be here earlier than anticipated."