15 to Finish

Graduate on time. Save money. Earn sooner.

Complete 15 Credits Each Semester & Graduate in 2 years

To earn your associate's degree, you need to successfully complete 60 credits in your major. In order to graduate in 2 years, you'll need to earn at least 15 credits every semester (or 30 each year).

Why take 15?

  • Taking less than 15 credits a semester (or 30 credits a year) means you're looking at an extra semester or more in order to graduate.
  • Data show students who take 15+ credits have higher GPAs, and are more likely to graduate.
  • Every semester beyond costs you extra in tuition.
  • Staying longer than 2 years also means less money you could have earned in the workforce.
  • If you qualify for Pell and/or TAP, keep in mind the funds are not unlimited. Pell grants cover 12 semesters in your lifetime; TAP covers up to 8 semesters. By using your time wisely, you can stretch that "free" grant money to cover more of your higher tuition at your senior college.
  • As an extra incentive: If you qualify for the new Excelsior Scholarship, completing the required 30 credits in your major each year could mean earning your associate's and bachelor's degrees at CUNY and/or SUNY tuition free!

Tips to help you graduate on time

  • Map out your 2-year plan: Confirm which courses run year-round.
  • Take advantage of Kingsborough's unique semester, which consists of a 12-week session + a 6-week module.
  • Advisor each semester to be sure you're on track. Be sure to discuss your transfer and career goals.
  • If you can, try and load up on classes that satisfy general education requirements first. This way you can stay on track to graduate in 2 years if you decide to change majors.
  • Keep in mind: For every credit in which you enroll, plan to spend 2 to 3 hours outside of class studying.
  • Don't be afraid to ask for help. Your professors have office hours set aside specifically to meet with students. There are also a myriad of free student services available, including tutoring, personal counseling, and career services. Make use of all you can!

Do the Math

There are a number of ways to get to 
15 credits each semester:

FALL/SPRING SESSIONS

15
12
9

WINTER/SUMMER MODULES

0
3
6

No matter how you get there: Take 15 credits every semester & graduate on time!