How Does the Credit System Work?

What Are Credits?

During your higher education studies, all your courses will be measured in credits. Courses are now referred to as "teaching units".

Each course is assigned a specific number of credits. For example, one course (or teaching unit) may be worth 3 credits, another 5 credits, and another 10 credits.

What Do Credits Represent?

Credits correspond to the workload required for a course. A 3-credit teaching unit theoretically requires less time and effort than a 5-credit unit.

When a student passes their exams, they are said to have "earned the X credits of the course". This means the course is successfully completed, and the student has understood, assimilated, and mastered the subject matter.

Is This System Used in All European Countries?

Yes! All European universities have adopted this credit system, known as ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System). It functions like a common currency for education, just as the euro is for European countries.

When a student goes on an Erasmus exchange or continues their studies in another country, the host university can refer to ECTS credits to structure their study program, ensuring a smooth academic transition.

How Many Credits Are in One Academic Year?

In theory, one academic year equals 60 credits. When you successfully complete a year, you hold 60 ECTS credits.

To obtain a Bachelor’s degree, a student must validate 180 credits, which corresponds to a full bachelor's cycle.

How long does it take? Under what conditions? That’s another story! To learn more, check out this video it's just one minute! 🎥