Students who participate in North Carolina’s Reverse Transfer Program and earn an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science will have fulfilled the university’s lower-division general education requirements (Minerva's Academic Curriculum), but not intermediate-level general education requirements like the College of Arts and Sciences’ foreign language requirement. Also, due to degree requirements in some majors, additional lower-division courses at UNC Greensboro may be required beyond the general education courses and pre-major courses taken at the community college. UNC Greensboro seeks prospective students with ability, motivation, and the intellectual potential to meet UNC Greensboro standards of performance. UNC Greensboro’s admission decision is based on an evaluation of the applicant’s secondary school record and/or college record as shown in the subsections of the Undergraduate Admissions portion of the University Catalog. 

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro is committed to equality of educational opportunity and does not discriminate against applicants, students, or employees based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, or disability. This commitment is in keeping with Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 and Section 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the ADA of 1990, and other applicable federal and state laws. The Affirmative Action Officer is responsible for coordinating compliance and investigating complaints.

Auditors

Auditing a course is the privilege of being present in the classroom when space is available. No credit is involved, no examinations are required, and no grades are reported. Attendance, preparation, and participation in classroom discussion and activities are at the discretion of the department and the instructor. Online courses cannot be audited. Registration for audited courses begins the first day of classes for a given semester and ends on the last day of late registration. 

Visiting Auditors (Persons Not Requiring a Record of Enrollment)

A person not currently enrolled at UNC Greensboro who desires to audit a course and who does not require a record of enrollment should secure a Visiting Auditor form from the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. This can be found on our website at https://admissions.uncg.edu/apply/visiting.

A Visiting Auditor may audit courses for a fee of $125. If the Visiting Auditor is aged 65 years or older and is a resident of or lives in North Carolina, there is no fee for auditing a course.

Auditors must secure permission from the course instructor before submitting their completed form to the University Registrar's Office. Only courses approved by academic departments are open to auditors. Visiting auditors are permitted in lecture courses when space is available with the written approval of the department head or the instructor teaching the course. Persons may register as visiting auditors beginning the first day of classes for any given semester.

Criminal Background Checks

Pursuant to University of North Carolina system policy 700.5.1[R], UNC Greensboro will perform background checks on either (a) all applicants offered admission, or (b) all applicants offered admission who indicate their intent to attend, before the applicant may matriculate, as follows:

• The UNC Suspension and Expulsion Data Base

• The National Student Clearinghouse

UNC Greensboro (UNCG) will perform criminal background checks on applicants being considered for admission or already admitted if the application and supporting materials contain one or more of the following security triggers: 

1. the application or supporting material contains inconsistent answers that have not been satisfactorily explained;

2. the applicant answers one or more of the four criminal background/ discipline questions affirmatively or submits subsequent information indicating (1) pending criminal charges, (2) acceptance of responsibility for a crime, (3) criminal convictions or (4) school disciplinary action, unless the affirmative answer or supporting material relates to a school disciplinary action that resulted from an offense that is remote in time or was insubstantial;

3. the application omits one or more answers without an acceptable explanation;

4. any other reason sufficient to UNC Greensboro. 

Students who give a positive response to one of the security triggers are required to submit a background investigation report by an approved third party vendor and a written letter of explanation describing the circumstances related to the positive responses. Admissions reviews this information, and in some cases, the file will move to the Dean of Students Office or to an internal university review committee for a final decision.  If a decision to deny admission is rendered, a student has the right to appeal. 

Domestic Applicants with International Credentials

U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (LPR), pending LPR (with approval notice), DACA, temporary protected status (TPS), political asylees, refugees, undocumented individuals, are considered domestic applicants and should apply through the Office of Undergraduate Admissions (https://admissions.uncg.edu).

Domestic applicants whose transcripts are from a non-U.S. institution must have a course-by-course evaluation conducted on all international secondary education (freshmen only) and/or any international college/university attended.  Visit http://www.naces.org for the list of evaluation companies UNC Greensboro accepts or refer to a list of preferred providers at: https://intladmissions.uncg.edu/international-credentials. 

The purpose of the credential evaluation report is to verify academic credentials and ensure course credit and U.S. grade equivalency are completed accurately.  This also eliminates the need to obtain official, translated transcripts to be sent to UNC Greensboro.

Applicants who have studied in the U.S. must request official transcripts be sent from each institution directly to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

In some instances, course descriptions and/or syllabi may be needed in order to determine course transferability from U.S. and non-U.S. institutions to UNC Greensboro.  Course descriptions and/or syllabi must be in English and issued by the sending institution(s) to the Transfer Articulation Division of the University Registrar’s Office. 

English Language Proficiency

UNC Greensboro Accepts the Following English Language Proficiency scores for direct entry into its Baccalaureate Programs:

• IBT TOEFL 79 [TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition (https://www.ets.org/s/cv/toefl/at-home) score report also accepted, same score]
• IELTS 6.5 [IELTS Indicator (https://www.ieltsindicator.com) also accepted, same band score]
• Duolingo English Test DET 105 (https://englishtest.duolingo.com/applicants)
• ELS 112 score report
• Kaplan International Higher Intermediate Level
• PTE Academic 53
• Cambridge C1 Advanced (https://www.cambridgeenglish.org/exams-and-tests/advanced)
• ISE II (B2) (https://www.trinitycollege.com/qualifications/english-language/ISE): Distinction in all 4 Skill Levels
• GTEC 1204 (Advanced or CBT Type)
• iTEP 3.8
• American Language Academy (ALA) (https://ala.edu) and ALA-Sky Campus Level 5 Certificate

The English Language Proficiency score is waived by one of the following:

• You are a graduate of a U.S. high school or academy.
• You are a graduate of an International School/Academy or IB school where the entire curriculum is taught entirely in English.
• An English Composition grade of C minimum from an accredited U.S. college/university.
• Obtained the highest level of English language training certificate from a qualified English Academic Program (US or non-US) – submitted for review and approval by the International Admissions Office.
• You have graduated from a school or are from: Australia, Canada (English curriculum only), Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, United Kingdom.
• Achieved INTERLINK (https://interlink.edu/uncg) Level 6 (on campus) or INTERLINK Level 12 (online program).

Former UNC Greensboro Students

Former students who wish to return to the University must apply to be readmitted and must meet prevailing admissions standards. This policy only applies to undergraduate degree-seeking students.

The following individuals must reapply for admission to UNC Greensboro by the posted deadline for the semester for which they wish to return:

• Graduates of UNC Greensboro who wish to return in a new program of study

• Former students who have not been enrolled for two or more consecutive terms (excluding summer)

• Former students who have been suspended or dismissed for academic or disciplinary reasons

Students Returning from Academic Dismissal
Former UNC Greensboro students who left on academic dismissal must also petition to return to the university by submitting a Return from Academic Dismissal Appeal (https://studentsfirst.uncg.edu/academic-standing-academic-recovery/academic-dismissal). The admissions application for academically-dismissed students will be reviewed only after a decision has been rendered on the Return from Academic Dismissal Appeal. Formerly dismissed students who successfully petition to return are limited to a maximum registration of 16 semester hours if returning in a fall or spring semester, must enroll in ARS 140 (https://studentsfirst.uncg.edu/academic-standing-academic-recovery/academic-dismissal), and must earn a 2.30 term GPA during their first semester upon return. Additional details regarding all parameters for returning from academic dismissal or suspension will be shared with students when their appeal is approved. Students returning from academic dismissal may not return during a summer term.

Students Returning from Academic Suspension
Students returning from academic suspension are similarly limited to the registration parameters and term GPA mentioned above and will be automatically enrolled in ARS 120 (https://studentsfirst.uncg.edu/academic-standing-academic-recovery/academic-suspension) for their first semester back. 
The Office of Undergraduate Admissions reserves the right to request additional information regarding an applicant’s activities and responses to questions pursuant to University of North Carolina system policy 700.5.1[R]. If additional information cannot be collected, the application may be denied.

Freshmen

For the purposes of admission, a freshmen is defined as a first-time undergraduate who is a degree-seeking student with no prior post-secondary experience (after graduating high school). Summer is not considered a degree-seeking term. All students should hold a high school diploma or its equivalent.

Minimum Course Requirements

Minimum Course Requirements. The following courses must be completed at the high school level or the summer following graduation, although courses may be completed at an earlier time (e.g., middle school).

English: four course units emphasizing grammar, composition, and literature

Mathematics: four course units in any of the following combinations:

• Algebra I, algebra II, geometry, and one unit beyond algebra II; or
• Algebra I, algebra II, and two units beyond algebra II; or
• Common core math I, II, and III, and one unit beyond common core math III; or
• Integrated math I, II, III, and one unit beyond integrated math III; or
• NC Math 1, 2, 3, and one unit beyond NC Math 3 identified as meeting the 4th level mathematics requirement for admission to UNC System institutions.

Science: three course units, including:

• Life or biological science (e.g., biology); and
• Physical science (e.g., chemistry, physical science, physics); and
• One laboratory course.

​Second Language: two course units of a language other than English

• Two additional academic courses from English, mathematics, science, social studies, world languages, or computer science. (Note: completion of two sequential world language courses is recommended.) 

Social Studies: two course units, including one unit in U.S. history*

*An applicant who does not have the unit in U.S. history may be admitted on the condition that at least three credit hours in that subject be passed by the end of the sophomore (second) year at UNC Greensboro.

Minimum Admissions Requirements

Prospective freshmen candidates for admission must meet UNC system minimum requirements, as follows:

1. A composite ACT score of 19 or combined SAT (mathematics and evidence-based reading and writing) of 1010 and/or

2. A minimum weighted high school GPA of 2.5

Additional requirements beyond acceptance into UNC Greensboro may be required for particular baccalaureate program majors.  

Chancellor Exceptions

Admissions criteria are uniformly applied, with a limited number of exceptions allowed by UNC System Policy. Specifically, a limited number (no more than 1% of the admitted class) of exceptions to the UNC first-year admissions requirements are made through a policy known as Chancellor Exceptions. The maximum number of chancellor’s exceptions is limited to one percent of the total number of applicants accepted as first-time undergraduates each year. A chancellor’s exception may be applied to the SAT/ACT minimum requirement or the high school GPA minimum requirement.

Special Considerations for Students Missing Minimum Course Requirements (MCRs)

Per UNC System Policy, each campus shall establish policies describing the admission of students requiring special consideration with regard to MCRs. Such students would not otherwise be eligible for admission at the institution, and further evaluation of their records is necessary. Any student admitted under special consideration must show demonstrable promise for academic success at the institution. 

Institutions may waive some minimum course requirements for applicants who have superior academic records in high school, as measured by grades, rank in class, test scores, or the rigor of courses taken, or who demonstrate special talents. These applicants must have completed the eleventh grade and met virtually all of the minimum course requirements as well as the requirements for high school graduation.

Special Considerations for MCRs are reviewed by the Admissions Appeal Committee, which is a faculty-driven body designed to review, consider, and make recommendations on university admissions appeals for undergraduate students who are denied initial admission to the university.  This committee consists of six or more faculty and reviews student cases to complete recommendations on admission.

High School Visiting Students

UNC Greensboro will accept for enrollment in certain university courses high school juniors and seniors and who have the formal endorsement of and permission from a high school counselor and parent/guardian. Enrollment is limited to one course per semester. The cost per course for which university credit is given is the same as for other students taking fewer than nine hours. Credit earned before completion of high school may be applicable to a degree program at UNC Greensboro when the student has met all requirements for high school graduation and satisfied the requirements for admission as a freshman. Individuals wishing to enroll in university courses as indicated should proceed according to the policies of the high schools, and the high schools should contact the UNC Greensboro Office of Admissions for further information. 

Graduates of Cooperative Innovative High Schools (Early College)

Students graduating from a North Carolina Cooperative Innovative High School (CIHS) with an associate’s degree will have the option of being evaluated for admission as a freshman or as a transfer student. The student will remain identified as a freshmen by student type for purposes such as housing.

UNC Greensboro will provide written information to the student regarding the different admission requirements that accompany each option and any other relevant information that may be helpful to the student when considering which option to select.  The choice of freshman or transfer admissions consideration is only pursuant to admissions requirements. 

Graduates of North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM)

UNC Greensboro will offer freshman admission to any applicant attending the residential program at NCSSM. Such offer of admission shall be contingent upon the applicant:

1.  Successfully completing all NCSSM graduation requirements and remaining enrolled and in good standing at NCSSM through the time of the student’s graduation. For the purposes of this policy, “in good standing” shall mean with no pending disciplinary charges or pending academic violations that could lead to dismissal as of the date of graduation

2. Meeting Minimum Course Requirements and Minimum Admissions Requirements per UNC system policy

3. Completing all application requirements established by UNC Greensboro by standard deadlines

4. Satisfying the provisions of Criminal Background Check policy

Academic Proficiency and Placement

Based on academic records or placement tests, incoming first-year students are assessed to determine their proficiency in the written use of English and their mathematical competency level.  The objective is to place a student into courses that are commensurate with the student’s level of competency; students then register for the course level in which they are placed.

All new students can determine language placement or language course exemption by the following means:  Language Placement Test, the CLEP Test, or Certification of Proficiency.

Gap Year

Gap year exceptions are considered on a case-by-case basis and are not automatically granted. 

Immunization Clearance

Students who have been admitted to UNC Greensboro are required by North Carolina State law to submit appropriate verification of immunizations. 

Failure to comply with this requirement within thirty calendar days from the first day of registration may result in the student being administratively withdrawn from the university.

Students subjected to an administrative withdrawal for failure to comply with medical clearance requirements are entitled to a refund, subject to the guidelines of the Refund Policy.

Inter-Institutional Registration

Students taking courses through an inter-institutional agreement must meet the standards for participation in the program as set by their home institution and must follow the rules and policies of both campuses.

Greater Greensboro Consortium and/or North Carolina Inter-Institutional Agreement

A student attending a college or university through the Greater Greensboro Consortium (Bennett College, Elon University, Greensboro College, Guilford College, High Point University, Guilford Technical Community College, and North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University) or through the North Carolina Inter-Institutional Agreement (with Duke University, North Carolina Central University, North Carolina State University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte) is not classified as a visiting student at UNC Greensboro and does not go through the admissions process for the fall or spring semesters.

Students wishing to register for courses at UNC Greensboro through the Greater Greensboro Consortium or the North Carolina Inter-Institutional Agreement should contact the registrar of their home institutions. For Summer Session, the Greater Greensboro Consortium is in effect only with North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.

UNC Greensboro students wishing to take courses at one of the consortium institutions should request a consortium form from the University Registrar’s Office.

Students who wish to register for courses at UNC Greensboro and who are not enrolled at another UNC system school must answer campus safety questions, per UNC Policy 700.5.1[R]. Students may be required to submit to a criminal background check, based on their answers to the campus safety questions.

Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) Cross-Registration

The United States Air Force and Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps programs are available to UNC Greensboro students at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (in Greensboro). As a member of the Greater Greensboro Consortium, UNC Greensboro offers students these opportunities for leadership training and a commission in the Army or Air Force through cross-registration.

The university will grant credit for ROTC courses taken at N.C. A&T. UNC Greensboro students will be awarded elective credit for ROTC courses completed at A&T through the Consortium.

International Student Admissions

The University of North Carolina Greensboro welcomes qualified applicants from around the globe, appreciating the intellectual and cultural talents international students add to the UNC Greensboro campus.  UNC Greensboro's mission is to be a magnet for international talent, a leader for international enrollment growth, and an authentically welcoming campus. UNC Greensboro advances international enrollment through ethical and responsible recruitment practices and provides service excellence from point of inquiry to admission review.  The university celebrates diversity in meaningful ways and aims to be a catalyst for academic, personal, and professional success of admitted students.

Visit the International Admissions Website at https://admissions.uncg.edu/admissions/international-admissions

International Admissions 

UNC Greensboro invites motivated, qualified applicants from around the world.  The university is an ideal destination of choice for international students to pursue their academic and professional goals.  The university fosters a welcoming, inclusive campus amidst an intellectual and culturally diverse student body.   The campus appreciates the academic strengths and talents international students bring and provides a full range of student support services from the Global Engagement Office to help them succeed.  In addition to its challenging, high quality degree programs, the university is a friendly, safe, beautiful campus of 18,000 proud Spartans of which 700+ international students represent more than 90 countries.

Definition of International Applicants

International applicants at UNC Greensboro are defined as those who currently hold, or are seeking a F1 visa or other non-immigrant visa category authorized under the USCIS to engage in full-time academic studies, or part-time academic studies, where applicable.  

U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (LPR), pending LPR, DACA, political asylees, refugees, undocumented individuals, should apply as a domestic applicant through the UNC Greensboro online application, SpartanLink, located on the Office of Undergraduate Admissions website or through The Common Application. 

Applicant Categories

Freshman: A student enrolling directly after high school with no prior college/university coursework.

Freshman Transfer: A student who has less than 24 transferable credit hours from an accredited college/university.

Transfer Student: A student with at least 24 transferable credit hours from an accredited college/university.

Second Degree-Seeking Student: A student who has already earned a bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university and who is seeking a second bachelor’s degree at UNC Greensboro.

Application Procedure

All students may apply through one of the accepted UNC Greensboro application options.

International applicants are strongly encouraged to complete applications well before the application deadlines for allow for sufficient processing time and visa preparation through a U.S. Consulate office. 

For consideration of admission, students must provide:*

1. A completed application with all relevant documentation
2. The nonrefundable application fee
3. Demonstrated English language for academic purposes
4. Official secondary school transcripts, in English (for those with < 24 credit hours of college/university coursework)
5. Official transcripts from each college/university attended and a NACES® course-by-course evaluation report.  View the Non-Academic U.S. Transcripts Section here for options and details: https://admissions.uncg.edu/admissions/international-admissions/international-requirements.
6. SAT or ACT:  Optional
7. Freshmen: International students graduating from a U.S. high school are also required to meet Minimum Course Requirements as defined by the UNC system: https://admissions.uncg.edu/apply/freshmen/hs-course-requirements.

*Some majors and programs may have additional admission requirements due to the competitiveness of the program and/or seat capacity so please take this into consideration when you apply to a particular program.  

Test results should be sent directly from CollegeBoard or ACT. 

UNC Greensboro Test Codes:  TOEFL, SAT:  5913, ACT:  3166

University Credit for International Examinations

UNC Greensboro grants university credit for IB exams and Cambridge Assessment AS/A Levels.  Refer to the topic How to Check if Courses Will Transfer at https://spartancentral.uncg.edu/registration-degree-planning/transfer-credit-information). 

English Language Proficiency Requirement

UNC Greensboro Accepts the following English Language Proficiency scores for direct entry into its Baccalaureate Programs:

• IBT TOEFL 79 [TOEFL iBT® Special Home Edition (https://www.ets.org/s/cv/toefl/at-home) score report also accepted, same score]

• IELTS 6.5 [IELTS Indicator (https://www.ieltsindicator.com) also accepted, same band score]

• Duolingo English Test DET 105 (https://englishtest.duolingo.com/applicants)

• ELS 112 score report

• Kaplan International Higher Intermediate Level

• PTE Academic 53

• Cambridge C1 Advanced (https://www.cambridgeenglish.org/exams-and-tests/advanced)

• ISE II (B2) (https://www.trinitycollege.com/qualifications/english-language/ISE): Distinction in all 4 Skill Levels

• GTEC 1204 (Advanced or CBT Type)

• iTEP 3.8

• American Language Academy® (ALA) (https://ala.edu) and ALA-Sky Campus® Level 5 Certificate

The English Language Proficiency score is waived by one of the following:

• You are a graduate of a U.S. high school or academy.

• You are a graduate of an International School/Academy or IB school where the entire curriculum is taught entirely in English.

• An English Composition grade of C minimum from an accredited U.S. college/university.

• Obtained the highest level of English language training certificate from a qualified English Academic Program (US or non-US) – submitted for review and approval by the International Admissions Office.

• You have graduated from a school or are from: Australia, Canada (English curriculum only), Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, United Kingdom.

• Achieved INTERLINK (https://interlink.edu/uncg)Level 6 (on campus) or INTERLINK Level 12 (online program).

Conditional or Provisional Admission

For students who are otherwise qualified for admission to UNC Greensboro, conditional admission is offered through INTERLINK Language Institutes for students who are otherwise qualified for admission to UNC Greensboro, and wish to undertake in-person intensive English instruction from within the United States, conditional admission is offered through the American Language Academy (ALA) located in Greensboro, NC. With successful passing of Level 6, students are then re-issued a direct entry offer of admission to UNC Greensboro. For complete program details, sessions, and cost, refer to: https://ala.edu/american-language-academy-greensboro.

On a case-by-case basis, students enrolled in the final English levels in-person at ALA or online in the INTERLINK virtual program may also take limited UNC Greensboro coursework concurrently with their intensive English courses. For complete program details, sessions, and cost for the virtual INTERLINK program, refer to: https://interlink.edu/uncg.

UNC Greensboro may also offer provisional admission to students through other English as a Second Language (ESL) centers or U.S. community college partners. 

Students with Non-U.S. Transcripts

Students with non-U.S. transcripts for their current or prior college/university are required to submit a course-by-course evaluation report with the application. Freshmen with current or prior secondary education transcripts are also required to submit a course-by-course evaluation report, but for the following exceptions.

You do not need the report if you have any of the following: IB Diploma or IB Track, Standard XII Certificate or equivalent (India only), School Leaving Certificate & Mark Sheets for all exams (Nepal only), a GCSE/IGCSE Statement of Results, or a WASSCE/WAEC score report. All non-U.S. secondary education credentials, whether externally or in-house evaluated, must meet U.S. high school diploma equivalency.

The purpose of the course evaluation is to both verify non-U.S. academic credentials and equate foreign coursework to the U.S. grade point average (GPA) and course credit hour system.  This also eliminates the need to obtain official, translated transcripts from your school(s) to be sent to UNC Greensboro.

The IRAO accepts academic evaluation reports from any of the NACES—National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (https://www.naces.org/members) members or, the Association of International Credential Evaluators (AICE) endorsed member, Scholaro, Inc.

For information on exemptions from a course evaluation, please visit: https://intladmissions.uncg.edu.

The Global Engagement Office (https://international.uncg.edu) is the primary resource for admitted and current international students regarding I-20 issuance, immigration guidance, student services, travel advice, connections to additional campus resources, and the international student orientation.

Residency

The Residency Determination Service is the entity responsible for all undergraduate classifications of residency for tuition purposes in North Carolina. Residency classification for tuition purposes determines in-state or out-of-state status and may impact admission, tuition, scholarships, or financial aid eligibility.

A residency determination from RDS is required for undergraduates applying for admission, readmission, or transfer to any NC college or university, public or private, who wish to receive the benefits of in-state tuition and/or eligibility for state grants. Complete the RDS online interview process at http://www.ncresidency.org.

Second Baccalaureate Degree Students

An applicant who holds a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution may earn an additional baccalaureate degree by the following means: 

1. Completing a minimum of 31 additional credit hours for each subsequent degree at UNC Greensboro beyond the hours required for their first degree.

2. Satisfying upper division requirements in the major field as recommended and approved by the department and approved by the department chair granting the additional degree.

3. Completing other requirements or pertinent supporting courses as approved by appropriate department chairperson or dean. 

An applicant seeking an additional baccalaureate degree must have a minimum of a 2.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale from their post-secondary work and be eligible to return to their most recent institution.

Summer Session

Currently enrolled UNC Greensboro students who are continuing their studies at UNC Greensboro in the summer do not need to complete a separate application.

New or visiting students planning to attend Summer Session at UNC Greensboro must apply through the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

Transfer Credit

Transfer Articulation Services

Located in the University Registrar’s Office, this unit enters transfer credit course work into the student’s official record. Also, in association with university faculty, this unit is responsible for determining how postsecondary-level courses and credits transfer to UNC Greensboro, applying admission-level transfer credit regulations, and enforcing the provisions of the North Carolina Comprehensive Articulation Agreement. Students with questions about transfer credit are encouraged to contact Transfer Articulation Services at transfercredit@uncg.edu.

Transfer Credit Policies and Limits

Institutional Accreditation

UNC Greensboro is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The primary service area for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) includes Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia. SACSCOC does accept applications from international institutions that can meet its accreditation standards. The accreditation standards of this Commission require member institutions to analyze credit accepted for transfer in terms of level, content, quality, comparability, and degree program relevance; therefore, course credit for undergraduate degree-seeking students that originates from other SACSCOC member institutions can be readily evaluated by Transfer Articulation Services.

These requirements are consistent with the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Higher Learning Commission (HLC), Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), and WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). UNC Greensboro recognizes the accreditation standards of these agencies; course credit originating from any institution accredited by these agencies for undergraduate degree-seeking students can be readily evaluated by Transfer Articulation Services.

Professional School Admissions

Admission to the university does not constitute selection into any of the professional schools.

Minimum Transferable Grade

Transfer credit to be awarded is determined by the quality and quantity of the student’s previous college work. Course work completed with a grade of C-, D+, D, or D- will not transfer. Transfer courses are evaluated on a course-by-course basis.

Transfer Credit Limit

The sum total of transfer credit from two-year college(s), that may be applied toward an undergraduate degree may not exceed 64 credit hours.

Repeated Courses

The university’s Repeated Course Policy applies to transfer credit. In the case of duplicate transfer credit, only the first instance in which credit can be awarded will remain on the UNC Greensboro academic record.

Programs and Articulation Agreements

Comprehensive Articulation Agreement

The North Carolina General Assembly, the Board of Governors of the University of North Carolina, and the State Board of Community Colleges are committed to the simplification of transfer of credits for students and thus facilitating their educational progress as they pursue associate or baccalaureate degrees within and among public post-secondary institutions in North Carolina. The Comprehensive Articulation Agreement (CAA) is a statewide agreement governing the transfer of credits between NC community colleges and public universities in North Carolina, and has as its objective the smooth transfer of students, providing certain assurances to the transferring student by identifying community college courses that are appropriate for transfer as electives, and specifying courses that will satisfy pre-major and general education requirements.

The CAA establishes the procedures governing the transfer of credits for students who transfer from a North Carolina Community College to a constituent institution of the University of North Carolina. To be eligible for the transfer of credits under the CAA, the student must graduate from the community college with an Associate in Arts (AA) or Associate in Science (AS) degree and have an overall Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 2.0 on a 4.0 scale and a grade of “C” or better in all CAA courses. Students who do not complete the degree are eligible to transfer credits on a course-by-course basis. Students officially enrolled in an AA or AS program at a North Carolina community college prior to Fall Semester 2014 are subject to the conditions and protections contained in the CAA in place at the time of their initial enrollment as long as they have remained continuously enrolled.

Community college graduates of the Associate in Arts or Associate in Science degree programs who have earned 60 credit hours in approved transfer courses with a grade of “C” or better will receive at least 60 credit hours of academic credit upon admission to UNC Greensboro. A student who completes the Associate in Arts or Associate in Science degree prior to transfer to UNC Greensboro will have fulfilled the university’s lower-division general education requirements, but not intermediate-level general education requirements like the College of Arts and Sciences’ foreign language requirement. Also, due to degree requirements in some majors, additional lower-division courses at UNC Greensboro may be required beyond the general education courses and pre-major courses taken at the community college.

Reverse Transfer Program

This program awards an associate degree to students who previously attended a NC community college and earned at least 16 community college course credits. The student will earn their associate degree while completing courses for a baccalaureate degree at the four-year institution. There is no cost to participate in the Reverse Transfer program. Students should contact their community college for fees related to printed diplomas and participating in graduation ceremonies.

Students who transfer to a North Carolina university from one of the 58 North Carolina community colleges are given the opportunity to combine the credits earned at the university with credit already earned at the community college to determine if the associate degree requirements have been met.

Students are responsible for opting in via UNCGenie, and the community college evaluates transcripts and awards associates degrees. The awarding of the associates degree will vary according to how many credits the student has earned.

Please see the official Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for eligibility and answers to all questions: http://www.northcarolina.edu/reversetransfer.

Students who participate in North Carolina's Reverse Transfer Program and earn an Associate of Arts of Associate of Science will have fulfilled the university's lower-division general education requirements (Minerva's Academic Curriculum), but not intermediate-level general education requirements.  Due to degree requirements in some majors, additional lower-division courses at UNC Greensboro may be required beyond the general education courses and pre-major courses taken at the community college.

2Plus Programs

The 2Plus program is for those North Carolina community college graduates who hold a specific Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) or Associate Degree in Nursing (A.D.N.) degree and desire to transfer into UNC Greensboro with advanced standing, pursuing a specific UNC Greensboro major. Articulation notices are sent to North Carolina community colleges listing the 2Plus admission requirements. Specific details of each notice may be obtained from the UNC Greensboro Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

2Plus Articulation students are transfer students with several unique requirements and procedures. Details governing their enrollment are provided for in the articulation notices. The decision for admission is based on successful completion of the A.A.S./A.D.N. Degree and other specific factors outlined in the 2Plus articulation notice. Students admitted under the 2Plus agreement must notify the Office of Undergraduate Admissions to change their major. A change in major may result in a change in the student’s transfer credit evaluation.

No combination of 2Plus and community college transfer credit may exceed 64 credit hours.

More details about 2Plus admission requirements are available at the 2Plus website: https://spartancentral.uncg.edu/registration-degree-planning/transfer-credit-information/2plus-equivalencies.

RN to BSN Articulation Agreement

This uniform, statewide academic progression agreement promotes education advancement opportunities for registered nurses moving between North Carolina community colleges and UNC Greensboro in order to complete BSN degrees. Specific details of the notice may be obtained from the UNC Greensboro Office of Undergraduate Admissions or the School of Nursing which include general education and nursing prerequisite courses. Students who follow the progression degree plan will meet entrance requirements to UNC Greensboro’s RN to BSN programs.

Eligibility for the Uniform Articulation Agreement

A potential student must:

• enter a NC Community College Nursing program on or after Fall Semester, 2015.

• earn an Associate Degree in Nursing at a NC Community College with a GPA of at least 2.0.

• earn a grade of C or better in all courses included in the first three blocks of the progression plan.

• be licensed as an RN prior to applying to the RN to BSN program.

For more details of the agreement’s progression plan, please reference the UNC Greensboro School of Nursing website: http://nursing.uncg.edu/undergraduate/rnbsn.

NC School of Science and Math Articulation Agreement

In addition to examination programs, UNC Greensboro has an established articulation agreement with North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM) since 2010. NCSSM is the only secondary school in the UNC System. Students will be granted credit based on the course equivalencies and related requirements listed below. Students will be granted credit only, grades earned at NCSSM are not factored into a UNC Greensboro’s student grade point average.

It is required that students earn a grade of B- or higher in all the NCSSM courses listed below, grades of C+ or lower are not acceptable. Moreover, most NCCSM courses listed are part of a sequential program. A grade of a B- or higher must be earned in all courses within the sequence to receive transfer credit.

Please refer to the following website for a complete list of transfer credit awarded at UNC Greensboro for NCSSM courses: https://go.uncg.edu/transfercreditplanner.

Secondary School Course Credit and Advanced Placement

Transfer credit or exemption from specific degree requirements may be earned by meeting university established minimum scores in recognized examination programs such as AP or IB. Students should contact their secondary school counselors regarding dates and local test centers.

Cambridge International Examinations

Cambridge International A and AS Level course credit (and/or higher placement) may be awarded after evaluations of documentation. Please contact Transfer Articulation Services for further information.

Advanced Placement (AP) Program and CLEP

Advanced Placement (AP) Program

Secondary school students enrolled in AP courses may receive college credit by taking AP examinations upon completion of the courses. Official score reports should be submitted with the application. AP exam scores reported on other transcripts will not be evaluated for transfer credit. Please visit the College Board’s AP Score Reporting Services website to order scores to be sent to UNC Greensboro: https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/sending-scores.

Please refer to the following website (selecting District of Columbia for the state) for a complete list of transfer credit awarded at UNC Greensboro for AP exams: https://go.uncg.edu/transfercreditplanner.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
Students may receive college credit by taking CLEP examinations. Official score reports should be submitted with the application. CLEP exam scores reported on other transcripts will not be evaluated for transfer credit. Please visit the College Board’s CLEP Score Reporting Services website to order scores to be sent to UNC Greensboro: https://clep.collegeboard.org/scores.

Please refer to the following website (selecting District of Columbia for the state) for a complete list of transfer credit awarded at UNC Greensboro for CLEP exams: https://go.uncg.edu/transfercreditplanner.

College Board SAT: Writing Exam

Exemption from ENG 101 will be based on a score of 650 or above on the SAT Writing Exam. Questions about these exemptions appearing on a student’s degree evaluation should be directed to the Students First Office.

DSST

The DSST Credit-by-Exam program offers students the opportunity to use their knowledge acquired outside of the classroom (perhaps from reading, on-the-job training, or independent study) to accomplish their educational goals. While the exams are funded for active-duty military, DSST exams are not just for those in the military. Adult learners, homeschooled students, and military veterans are also eligible to earn college credits through DSST. Students can visit their website to review offered exams, test preparation, and locate a test center: http://www.getcollegecredit.com.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Program

Secondary school students enrolled in International Baccalaureate courses may receive college credit by taking IB examinations. Official score reports should be submitted with the application. IB exam scores reported on other transcripts will not be evaluated for transfer credit. Students should request that their test scores be sent to UNC Greensboro. Please visit the International Baccalaureate website for steps to order scores be sent to UNC Greensboro: http://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/assessment-and-exams/requesting-transcripts.

Please refer to the following website (selecting District of Columbia for the state) for a complete list of transfer credit awarded at UNC Greensboro for IB exams: https://spartancentral.uncg.edu/registration-degree-planning/placement-tests.

Credit For Military Training And Prior Learning Assessment

Military Course Credit

Elective credit for military training may be awarded where UNC Greensboro has comparable courses and upon receipt of an official transcript from the Community College of the Air Force or a Joint Services Transcript.

Transfer Students

A transfer student is defined as an undergraduate who has attended another postsecondary institution after graduating from high school. 

Requirements and Procedures

It is required that applicants that have attended another college/university (including 2-year, 4year, and/or junior colleges) submit an application for admission, all official transcripts for institutions of higher learning attended, and other needed documentation to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

To qualify for admission, applicants with at least 24 transferable hours must have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 on a 4.0 scale from all post-secondary coursework.

For purposes of undergraduate admission, transfer applicants who have earned at least 24 transferable undergraduate credits from one or more regionally accredited, post-secondary institutions shall not be required to meet Minimum Admissions Requirements (MAR) and Minimum Course Requirements (MCR).

1. Transferable undergraduate credit counted as part of these 24 hours shall include:

   1. Credit earned at foreign institutions deemed to have the equivalence of regional accreditation; equivalence of regional accreditation generally refers to recognition by the foreign country’s Ministry of Education and/or recognition by a NACES-accredited organization offering credential evaluation services; and

   2. Credit awarded for prior learning as part of military service, with the military branch designated as the transfer institution

   3.  Undergraduate credits awarded for AP, IB, or other credit by exam shall not be included as part of these 24 hours. However, students are encouraged to submit official scores directly from the testing agency for credit evaluation.

   4. Applicants under the age of 21 with fewer than 24 hours of transferable undergraduate credit earned in a post-secondary institution will be evaluated based on first-year (freshman) MAR and MCR.

   5. Transfer applicants who are 21 years of age or older and who have less than 24 transferable hours may be evaluated based on their post-secondary performance and/or high school performance.

​Transfer applicants who are 21 years of age or older, have a cumulative post-secondary GPA below a 2.0, are academically eligible to return to their prior institution, and have a 24-month break in their educational studies may be considered as non-traditional adult learners and may be admissible based upon an interview process and approval by the Director of Admissions.

Comprehensive Articulation Agreement (CAA)

Students who have completed an Associate Degree of Arts (AA) or Associate Degree of Science (AS) at a North Carolina community college with at least a 2.0 on a 4.0 scale will be admitted per State of NC’s Comprehensive Articulation Agreement (CAA).  Students who have met the CAA are considered to have met the general education requirements at UNC Greensboro. Students are still responsible for meeting any prerequisite course requirements required by academic major programs.

UNC Greensboro will transfer no more than 64 credit hours earned at two-year institutions. Courses for which there is no equivalent course will transfer as elective credit.

Veterans

For purposes of undergraduate admission to UNC Greensboro, any individual having completed a minimum of three years of cumulative active duty service in the United States Armed Forces shall be exempt from minimum admissions requirements (MAR) and minimum course requirements (MCR), although they may be considered first-time undergraduates (freshmen) for reporting and/or receipt of services.

Applicants under the age of 21 shall be required to submit a high school transcript or GED, college transcript(s) (if applicable), and a relevant military transcript for evaluation. The branch of service reporting the source of transferred credit hours earned through military training will function as the applicant’s institution of transfer. If discharged from active duty, the veteran must have received an Administrative (non-punitive) Discharge. This policy shall not apply to veterans receiving a “Bad Conduct or Dishonorable Discharge.”

When enrolling at UNC Greensboro, the veteran should present a Certificate of Eligibility to the Military-Affiliated Services office requesting that certification of enrollment be sent to the VA. This Certification of Enrollment is necessary before educational benefits can be received. Certification of Enrollment must be requested for each academic semester including summer sessions.

Visiting Students

Visiting Students

A Visiting Student is defined as a student currently attending a home institution other than UNC Greensboro but who seeks to take a course or courses at UNC Greensboro.

• Applicants from other colleges or universities must obtain prior approval from their current institution to take courses at UNC Greensboro.
• High school students must provide appropriate permission from the high school counselor and parent/guardian. 

The university assumes no responsibility for determining the student’s course selection when the credits are to be transferred elsewhere. Enrollment by permission from another institution does not obligate the university to continue the student’s enrollment at UNC Greensboro after the expiration of the permission period. Visiting students are limited to 21 cumulative credit hours.

Non-Degree/Special Students

Non-Degree or Special students are students who wish to take courses for the purpose of broadening their cultural interest or purely for their own edification; students taking courses in preparation for application to a program but who are not seeking degree completion with UNC Greensboro; or graduates of four-year institutions seeking certification. Interested individuals should:

1. Submit an application for admission with the non-refundable application fee.

2. Submit proof of high school graduation.

In order to take a course that requires a prerequisite, appropriate transcripts showing successful completion of the prerequisite should be submitted to the Department of Admissions (unofficial or official are both acceptable).
Students admitted as non-degree seeking/special students are not eligible to receive any federal or university financial aid. Visiting or non-degree students may apply for degree-seeking admission, submitting an application, fee, and all official transcripts. Courses taken at UNC Greensboro will be used in the admission review. Special students not seeking certification may enroll in and accumulate no more than 21 credit hours. Credits earned while enrolled as a special student will not count toward graduation until all university admissions requirements have been met.