CIU Admissions

Transfer Students

Chart a New Course with CIU

Looking to begin a new academic adventure? Transfer to CIU! We know that changing schools is a big step, so we’re here to help you along the way. Here’s your go-to guide for making your CIU application process a success.

STEP 1

Determine Transfer Eligibility

Determine Whether You Are Considered a Transfer Student

At CIU, you are considered a transfer student if you have completed 12 or more credit hours at a regionally accredited college or university since graduating from high school. To be eligible for transfer, you must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Additionally, the courses you’ve taken must meet the criteria for transfer into CIU’s academic programs.

Did you know? If you have only earned college credit during high school (via dual enrollment, AP classes, CLEP, and/or IB), you are not considered a transfer student. Instead, you are considered a first-time freshman, and you will follow our undergraduate admission process. Visit this page to apply to take classes on campus, and this page to apply to take classes online.

STEP 2

Check Coursework

Check to see if your coursework will transfer to CIU.

Courses taken at another college or university must meet the following criteria in order to be transferable to CIU.

In order to receive full credit for a course, the course must be completed at a college/university accredited by, or having candidate status with, a Regional Accrediting Organization, ABHE, TRACS, or other accrediting agency recognized by the American Council on Education (USDE).
Courses must be submitted on an official transcript.
Courses must be college-level.
You must have an earned grade of “C” or above. (Note: A grade of “S” or “P” may not constitute a “C” or better.)
A two-hour course can meet the requirement of a three-hour course, but the student must make up the additional hour.

Standardized Test Acceptance

We will accept credit from the following tests/programs.

Transfer Policies & Information

View our Undergraduate Standardized Test Acceptance & Test Score Criteria Policy.

CIU’s Undergraduate Transfer Policy Supplement provides additional information regarding transfer equivalency for undergraduate credit in accordance with our Transfer Credit Policy.

STEP 3

Complete the Application

To begin the admissions process at CIU, you’ll need to complete a specific transfer student application form.

STEP 4

Submit Required Documents

Once your application is submitted, we will need additional supporting documents to complete your admission requirements. Be sure to send these in right away, so our admissions team can begin reviewing your application.

High School Transcript

Provide an official transcript from your high school.

Note: Academic records not written in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. If you attended a school outside of the United States, transcripts need an International Credential Advancement Package (ICAP) evaluation by World Education Services (WES) or a formal evaluation by InCRED.

College Transcripts

Request that your college transcript(s) be sent to CIU. This includes any credit earned via dual enrollment, AP, CLEP, and IB.

Additional Requirements

Some degree programs have additional admission requirements. Get more details.

STEP 5

Start Financial Aid Process

One of the most important parts of preparing for your college education is making your financial plans. We offer a variety of scholarships, grants, and loans to help you finance your education.

Follow our campus undergraduate student financial aid guide or online undergraduate student financial aid guide to help you get the most possible aid.

STEP 6

Save Your Spot & Get Ready

If you’re accepted, be sure to complete these steps to reserve your spot and prepare for your classes. Welcome to CIU!