TAKE “15 TO FINISH”
To complete a four-year degree in four years or a two-year degree in two years, you must earn
an average of 15 credit hours per semester. Research shows that students who take at least
15 credit hours are far more likely to graduate than those who take fewer than 15. And it may
sound surprising, but students who take 15 credits tend to do better academically than those
who don’t. Experts think it’s because students who take 15 are able to use their time more
you build your schedule, make sure you’re taking at least 15 credit hours toward your degree.
It will save you time and money — and increase your likelihood of graduating.
About the College Foundation of West Virginia:
The College Foundation of West Virginia (CFWV) offers free college- and career-planning resources, including cfwv.com,
a free website to help students and families plan, apply, and pay for education and training beyond high school. CFWV is
coordinated by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission in conjunction with the West Virginia Council for
Community and Technical College Education and the West Virginia Department of Education.
cfwv.com /collegefoundationofwv @cfwv
15 to Finish is a registered trademark of the University of Hawaii System and is being used by West Virginia with permission through the Complete College America initiative.
20 TRANSITION 101 • CFWV.COM
Paid for by the U.S. Department of Education and GEAR UP funds.
/cfwv.com
/cfwv.com