Requirements for Transfer Applicants

We consider your transferable college credits and GPA when making an admission decision. Take a look at our requirements so that you know what we expect from our applicants.

Credit & GPA Guidelines

As a transfer applicant, you must meet one of the following criteria to be considered for admission:

  • 12 to 23 transferable college credits and a minimum 2.5 college GPA; or
  • Up to 23 transferable college credits and a minimum 2.0 college GPA, and a high school transcript that meets the admission standards for first-year applicants; or
  • 24 or more transferable college credits and a minimum 2.0 college GPA.

The credit and GPA requirement is based upon the most recently attended college or university. Transferable college credits are college-level courses completed at regionally accredited colleges and universities in which you received a grade of C- or higher. High school students with Dual Enrollment course credit are considered first-year applicants and must meet the first-year admission standards.

Admission is determined in accordance with the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education’s Undergraduate Admissions Standards for the Massachusetts State University System and the University of Massachusetts. Meeting the minimum standards does not guarantee admission. Learn more about the DHE’s admissions standards.

Transferable College Credit

We award transfer credit for college-level courses completed at regionally accredited colleges and universities in the liberal arts and sciences as well as some professional courses. Transfer credit is given only for courses in which you received a grade of C- or higher.

There is no limit to the amount of credit that can be transferred. You must complete a minimum of 32 course-credits, including courses for general education, major and major-related requirements, as well as open/free electives, to graduate with a degree from FSU. The University Course Residency requirement includes a minimum of eight (8) course-credits which must be taken at FSU.

To review courses for transferability, refer to Transfer Resources.

Standardized Testing Policy

FSU is test-optional, meaning you're not required to submit SAT or ACT scores to be considered for admission.

If you earn admission and choose to enroll, you may be asked to submit SAT or ACT scores (if available) for research purposes on retention, persistence, and future admission selection standards.

Essay & Letters of Recommendation (optional)

You’re not required to submit an essay or letters of recommendation. If you choose to submit these items, they can help us better understand your story and interest in attending FSU. This is your opportunity to explain any unique circumstances or demonstrate qualities and skills that will help you succeed.

Gap Year (if applicable)

If you haven’t attended college continuously since high school graduation, you’ll need to provide a resumé or description of activities which accounts for all time spent out of school. There is space on the application for this information.