Free Tool · 474 Programs With Advanced Standing
Advanced Standing Checker
Which MSW Programs Will Shorten Your Degree if You Have a BSW?
474 MSW programs at 378 schools offer advanced standing to BSW graduates. Where schools state both figures, it drops a median of 27 credits, leaving a median of 33 credits to finish. Set your details below to see the programs you likely qualify for and what each one saves.
How the Checker Works
Each program's advanced standing details come from the school's own pages, checked in September 2026: whether it offers advanced standing, the credits and length, and the eligibility rule. When you pick how long ago you earned your BSW, the checker reads each school's rule for a stated year limit and flags programs whose limit you'd exceed; programs that state no limit stay in the list. Always confirm with the admissions office, because rules change and many schools make case-by-case exceptions.
Compare every option on the advanced standing MSW programs page, or price one in full with the MSW cost and loan calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Qualifies for Advanced Standing in an MSW?
Graduates of a CSWE-accredited BSW program, usually within a set number of years (often five to seven) and with a minimum GPA. Each school sets its own rule; the checker shows it in the school's words where the program page states it.
How Much Does Advanced Standing Save?
Among programs that state both figures, advanced standing drops a median of 27 credits. At the school's per-credit rate that's often tens of thousands of dollars, plus a year of living costs and earnings.
Does a BSW From a Program in Candidacy Count?
CSWE treats students who graduate after a BSW program earns initial accreditation as graduates of an accredited program; if you graduated before that, ask the MSW program how it treats your degree.
What if My BSW Is Older Than the School's Limit?
Some schools waive the time limit for applicants with recent social work experience; others don't. The traditional MSW is always open to you, and some programs let you waive specific foundation courses.
More Free Tools and Guides
Sources
- Official program and admissions pages of each school, reviewed September 2026
- CSWE, directory of accredited programs