Apply as a Transfer Student
Continue your college journey at Concordia.
Transfer to Concordia
At Concordia University Irvine, you have the freedom to explore your interests, deepen your faith, and grow within a caring, connected community. Our faculty and staff are committed to helping you build on the work you’ve already done, challenging you academically while supporting your personal and spiritual development.
We know every transfer student brings a different story, and we’re here to help you navigate your next chapter with confidence. You are welcome here, and we’re honored you’re considering Concordia as your next home.
Here’s How to Apply
Step 1: Fill Out Your Application
You can apply 100% online on our application portal or with the Common App. Your progress saves automatically, so you can complete it at your own pace.
Step 2: Pay the Application Fee
There is an application fee of $50, which is non-refundable. If this creates a financial hardship for you or your family, please contact Admissions. We’re happy to talk through possible fee waiver options.
Step 3: Submit Your College and High School Transcripts
o complete your application, please submit official transcripts from every college or university you’ve attended. These transcripts should include all completed collegiate-level coursework. You may send them electronically via Parchment or National Student Clearinghouse or mail them to:
- Concordia University Irvine
Office of Undergraduate Admissions
1530 Concordia West
Irvine, CA 92612
You’ll also need to provide an official high school transcript or GED certificate, sent in a sealed envelope to verify your graduation.
Application Deadlines
Concordia University Irvine welcomes transfer applications for both fall and spring, with Early Action options for students who want an admissions decision sooner. We encourage you to apply early so you have plenty of time to plan your next steps.
Fall 2026 Semester
| Type | Apply By | Notified By |
|---|---|---|
| Early Action | November 15, 2025 | Mid-December |
| Early Action II (Priority) | February 15, 2026 | March 1 |
| Rolling Admissions | August 21, 2026 |
Note: Applications received after February 15 are reviewed on a rolling basis. Once your file is complete, most decisions are sent within two weeks — timing may vary throughout the year.
Admission Requirements
Concordia welcomes transfer students who have completed academic coursework at an accredited college or university. We encourage you to complete as many General Education (GE) and major requirements as possible before transferring. To be considered for admission, you’ll need:
Minimum GPA: 2.3
High school graduation or GED completion
Finish Your GE Courses Online
If you’d like more flexibility as you prepare to transfer, Concordia offers an online option that allows you to complete your General Education (GE) requirements from home or at a California Community College near you. If you’re interested in this pathway, an admissions counselor can help you explore your options.
Talk to an Admissions Counselor
Our Admissions team is here to guide you through every step of the application process and help you find the path that fits your goals.
Articulation Agreements
Concordia partners with several California Community Colleges to help you understand how your coursework will transfer into our General Education and major requirements. Use these articulation agreements alongside the Concordia University Irvine Catalog to plan your next steps with confidence.
Transfer articulation agreements are available for the following California Community Colleges
- Grossmont College
- Irvine Valley College
- Las Positas College
- Los Angeles City College
- Los Angeles Pierce College
- Long Beach City College
- Mira Costa College
- Moorpark College
- Moreno Valley College
- Mount San Antonio College
- Mount San Jacinto College
- Norco College
- Orange Coast College
- Oxnard College
- Palomar College
- Pasadena City College
- Rio Hondo College
- Riverside City College
- Sacramento City College
- Saddleback College
- San Bernardino Valley College
- San Diego City College
- San Diego Mesa College
- San Diego Miramar College
- Santa Ana College
- Santa Barbara City College
- Santa Monica College
- Santiago Canyon College
- Sierra College
- Ventura College
- West Los Angeles College
Transfer Life at Concordia
We want you to feel at home from the moment you arrive at Concordia. As a transfer student, you’ll have access to resources that help you get connected, stay supported, and thrive in your academics, community, and faith life:
- MyCUI keeps you connected to campus communications, course materials, and student resources
- Residential Education and Services (RES) can help you find on-campus housing
- You can get involved by joining clubs, organizations, and campus activities
- Your spiritual life matters just as much as your academics, and we offer plenty of on-campus opportunities for worship
FAQs
Do I apply as a first year or transfer student?
You’re considered a transfer student if you have enrolled in and completed units at a postsecondary institution before coming to Concordia.
The only exception: if you took college classes the summer immediately after high school graduation, you should apply as a first year student.
How many credits do I need to earn at Concordia to graduate?
To graduate and meet Concordia’s residency requirements, keep these in mind:
- 120 total semester units are required to graduate
- 30 units must be completed at Concordia
- 18 of your last 24 units must be completed at Concordia
- 30 upper-division units (300–400 level) are required, including 21 upper-division units completed at Concordia
- 18 units of your major and 9 units of your minor (if applicable) must be completed at Concordia
Are there required courses that I need to complete before transferring?
No. Concordia does not require prerequisite courses for admission, but we do recommend completing as many GE courses as possible before transferring.
What if I do not see an articulation agreement for the school I am attending?
Please contact your admissions counselor. We can still evaluate your coursework and let you know which units may transfer.
What types of scholarships can I receive as a transfer student?
Transfer scholarships are available to students with a cumulative college GPA of 2.9 or higher. Visit the Scholarships page for more information.
Do I need to complete the SAT/ACT?
No. Concordia does not require SAT or ACT scores, and transfer students do not need to submit test scores, regardless of how many units they’ve earned at previous institutions.
How do I know if my units will transfer?
Once you’re admitted to the university, you will receive a preliminary transfer credit evaluation, as well as a detailed view of all your eligible transferable courses. If you would like to request an evaluation prior to acceptance, please contact your admissions counselor.
Who should I talk to if I have questions about my transferred courses?
You should first talk to your academic advisor. They will be able to answer any questions you have or refer you to the correct department if necessary.
What if I am a veteran or active duty military applicant?
For more information, please visit the Military Student admissions page.
Is there a minimum amount of units required prior to transferring?
No, Concordia does not require a minimum amount of units before transferring.
Am I required to take religion courses?
Yes, transfer students at Concordia will complete one theology course per year. Please see the Q&I page for more information.
What are the transfer credit academic policies?
You can read all transfer credit policies in full on the Transfer Policies page.
How long will it take me to graduate from Concordia?
It depends on the number of units you transfer in. After you enroll, your advisor will create a personalized graduation plan based on:
- Your transferred coursework
- Your major requirements
- Concordia’s residency requirements
You’ll be able to view your plan and make updates with your advisor.
How do I determine my student classification?
Classification is based on the number of units you’ve completed:
- Freshman: 0-29.99
- Sophomore: 30-59.99
- Junior: 60-89.99
- Senior: 90+
Can I live on campus and who would I live with?
Yes! Students under age 25 may live on campus. Concordia offers a transfer-specific residence hall, where you can live with other transfer students.
I’m struggling with the transition to Concordia, what should I do?
You’re not alone — we’re here to support you. Depending on your needs, you can connect with:
- Your Transfer Success Coach for overall support
- The Tutoring Center for academic help
- Disability Access Services for accommodations
- The Wellness Center for mental health support
- The Campus Pastor or any trusted faculty/staff member for spiritual care
We’re here to walk with you as you adjust to life at Concordia.
Get in Touch
Have questions or need guidance? Our team is here to help you at every step. Reach out and we’ll connect you with the right support.
Admissions Office
1530 Concordia West
Irvine, CA 92612
Phone: (949) 214-3010
Email: admissions@cui.edu
Hours: Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.