Transfer your credits.
We accept up to 75 credits from regionally accredited two-year institutions and up to 90 credits from four-year institutions. We also award credit for prior learning. Our transfer equivalency tool will help you estimate how many of your credits will transfer.
Submit your application.
Transfer students must submit one of the applications below and transcripts from each university attended, regardless of how many semesters they completed. Transcripts should be ordered directly from your previous institution to be sent to Arcadia in support of your application.
Start early.
Summer sessions at Arcadia offer the opportunity to catch up on classes, earn credits, and conduct research—and transfer students receive a tuition discount.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to apply?
Students transferring to Arcadia University must complete the Common App for Transfers and submit copies of their college transcripts for review (unofficial or official) from any previously attended university. If you have completed fewer than two full-time semesters, we also require a copy of your high school transcript to better assess your cumulative academic performance.
How do I submit transcripts in support of my application?
You can submit transcripts in a variety of ways. They may be emailed to transfer@arcadia.edu, requested directly from your previous school using a service like Parchment or the National Student Clearinghouse to third party deliver an electronic copy of your transcript, or you can upload a copy to the MyKnight applicant portal. You may submit unofficials or officials to be reviewed for admission. Should you be admitted, you will need to request an official copy of your transcripts as part of the enrollment process.
How many total credits can I transfer?
You can transfer up to 75 credits from a regionally accredited two-year institution, or up to 90 from a regionally accredited four-year school. If you previously attended a four-year institution before transferring to a community college, you are allowed to bring up to 90 credits.
How can I find out how my credits will transfer?
You can check out our transfer equivalency tool to see how courses may have historically transferred from your previous school(s). If a course is not included, it has likely never been evaluated for transfer before and will need to be reviewed by the Registrar. You can also send an unofficial transcript to transfer@arcadia.edu to be reviewed for a preliminary evaluation of your credits.
What core classes will I need to take?
All transfer students must complete the equivalent of an English 101 composition course, if not transferring in an equivalent course. Additionally, all students must complete a Global Experience and Reflections course as well as the senior capstone project courses associated with your chosen major. The number of credits you transfer will determine your remaining curricular requirements. Learn more about our Arcadia Curricular Requirements (AUCs) here.
How does financial aid work for transfers?
All full-time transfer students are automatically considered for merit-based aid at time of admissions review, up to $22,000 per year based on cumulative GPA and coursework. Additional scholarship opportunities exist, including a Phi Theta Kappa $1500 award per year for full-time study and students graduating with an approved associate’s degree from one of our partner institutions qualify for an additional $5000 partner scholarship. To be considered for need-based aid, students must file or update their FAFSA with Arcadia’s school code (003235) for the relevant school year associated with their start term. You can find out more about scholarship opportunities and financing your education on our financial aid website.
Which institutions are considered core-to-core partner schools?
Arcadia currently has core-to-core agreements with: Bucks County Community College, Cecil College, Community College of Philadelphia, Delaware County Community College, Lehigh Carbon Community College, Montgomery County Community College, Northampton Community College, and Rowan College at Burlington. Click here to learn more.
Can transfer students live on campus?
Transfer students are guaranteed housing for the duration of their studies, should they want to reside on campus. You will be asked to complete a housing application at time of enrollment to secure on-campus housing. Learn more about our housing options.
What resources exist for commuter students?
Commuter students have access to our commuter lounge, university commons, and other spaces on campus to unwind or study between classes. Learn more about our commuter resources.
How long will it take me to complete my degree program?
Degree completion time frames will vary depending on how many credits you transfer and how your previous courses align with our Arcadia curriculum. Contact our transfer office at transfer@arcadia.edu for a preliminary evaluation of your credits and to discuss your graduation timeline.
Will I have career guidance/mentorship or internship opportunities?
Yes! Transfer students have full use of career prep resources through our Office of Career Education and their career launchpad. Transfer students can also participate in our College2Career Scholars cohort, a special admissions program aimed at getting students career-ready. Internship opportunities are built into many of our offered majors or strongly encouraged. The Office of Career Education, in conjunction with your academic department, can help set you up for internship opportunities domestically and even abroad! Visit our career launchpad.
I have a unique situation or have additional questions. How do I schedule a one-on-one appointment?
You can email transfer@arcadia.edu to schedule a one-on-one appointment with one of our transfer counselors to discuss your particular transfer situation and questions, so we can ensure your transfer process is as smooth as possible.
