Taking courses before checking the school
A course only helps if your target school accepts it. Check the school's rules before you start, not after.
Enrolling first
If you enroll before you stack lower cost credit, you pay university tuition for courses you could have done for less.
Going over the transfer limit
Most schools cap how much transfer credit they take. Anything above the cap does not count.
Taking the same course twice
If two courses cover the same subject, the school may only count one. The other is wasted.
Assuming an associate degree covers everything
An associate degree does not always mean your general education courses are done at your new school.
Missing the passing score
For exams like CLEP, each school sets its own passing score. Passing the exam is not enough if you miss your school's score.
Sending transcripts late
Official transcripts can take weeks to arrive. Late transcripts can push back your start date or your credit evaluation.
Picking a school that slows you down
Some schools limit how fast you can finish courses. If speed matters to you, check how the school works before you enroll.
School rules change. Always confirm the current policy with your school before you enroll or take a course.