Transfer Freshman VS New Transfer

Transfer Freshman

Any student who has less than 24 transferable college credit hours after completing high school or earning a GED is classified as a Transfer Freshman. 

New Transfer

Any student with more than 24 transferable college credit hours earned after completing high school is classified as a  New Transfer. 

If you have questions about the transfer process, we are here to help. You can contact the Transfer Central team at transfer@uark.edu or (479) 575-5346.

When to Apply

Fall 2024 application deadline:
August 1, 2024

Spring 2024 application deadline:
December 15, 2023

Summer 2024 application deadline:
May 1, 2024

Admission Process

Follow these steps to complete your application to the University of Arkansas

Students walking at class change
  1. Transfer Course Equivalency Guide

    Review the University of Arkansas’ Transfer Course Equivalency Guide at courseequivalency.uark.edu to determine how many hours taken at other regionally accredited institutions will be transferable to the University of Arkansas. If you have questions about course equivalency, please visit registrar.uark.edu.
  2. Apply for Admission

    Click the apply now button below to complete and submit the online application for admission. You can pay the application fee either by credit card when using the online application or by forwarding a check or money order to the Office of Admissions.
  3. Send your Transcripts

    Have your official college transcripts, showing cumulative grade point average and courses taken, sent to the Office of the Registrar. Please note that Transfer Freshman must submit their high school transcript in addition to their collegiate transcripts.
  4. Submit Test Scores

    For Transfer Freshmen Only: Have your ACT/SAT scores sent to the Office of Admissions by the testing agency or your high school. For more information call 479-575-3948 or visit test.uark.edu.
  5. Accept or Decline

    Notify the U of A of your decision to accept or decline admission.

Admission Requirements

The University of Arkansas considers applications based on several factors, including high school GPA, official transcript and, in some cases, test scores and additional academic materials. Depending on your high school GPA, you may be eligible for test-optional admission.

New Transfer (24+ transferable college hours)

Applicants with a 2.0 cumulative GPA on all college coursework will be automatically admitted. Students who do not meet this requirement may apply and be reviewed by the Admissions and Appellate Board. 

Transfer Freshmen (fewer than 24 transferable college hours)

Students who do not meet these requirements may apply and be reviewed by the Admissions and Appellate Board.

Test Requirements

Transfer freshmen with a 3.20 high school GPA or higher (on a standard 4.00 scale) will be reviewed for admission to the university without a qualifying test score, but applicants with less than a 3.20 cumulative GPA should submit ACT, SAT, or Next Generation Accuplacer scores at the time of application. Scores from the Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0 (TSIA2) will not be accepted for placement and enrollment. 

Academic and non-academic factors which may be considered in the holistic admissions evaluation process and/or waitlist review include, but are not limited to: 

  • Overall GPA and academic achievement (most important consideration)
  • Grade trends or improvement over time (this item and those following are not listed in any specific order)
  • Rigor of an applicant’s courses relative to the rigor of the courses offered at the applicant’s school
  • SAT I or ACT scores (if student is not eligible for test optional review or if the scores will be a positive contribution to the review)
  • Requirements for remedial course placement
  • Special skills or outstanding talent, achievement, or aptitude in a particular area
  • Intended major
  • Work experience or military service
  • Commitment to community and leadership

We admit students on a rolling basis throughout the year. Early in the application process, we recommend that you check with the department to which you are applying to check on any special application deadlines you must meet. We recommend that you apply at least three weeks ahead of these deadlines to ensure we receive your documents so that we may evaluate your file and post your admissions decision.

Please note that our estimated application processing time changes depending upon what time of year it is and how many applications we are currently receiving in the office. All application processing times are based on when your file is complete (application, fee, and all transcripts and test scores).

Students who do not meet our regular admissions requirements are encouraged to apply and will be reviewed for possible admission by the University of Arkansas’ Admissions and Appellate Board. You will receive an electronic notification informing you of this committee review, and there is no further action you will need to take to facilitate the process. 

Applicants who complete the application process, including submission of the application for admission, transcript, test scores (if required), application fee (or waiver documentation), and any other requested information, will receive one of the following admission decisions:

  • Fully admitted to the University of Arkansas.
  • Admitted to the Transitions Academic Program (TAP). TAP students enroll as non-degree seeking students at the University of Arkansas, enroll as degree-seeking students at Northwest Arkansas Community College, and take classes on both campuses while living on the U of A campus.
  • Deferred. The U of A may defer a final admissions decision for some applicants in order to continue reviewing applications and any additional materials. Deferred applicants should provide updated transcripts and test scores as they become available. On or about February 1, deferred applicants will receive an admission decision of fully admitted, waitlisted, or denied admission.
  • Waitlisted. Depending on enrollment capacity, the U of A will place some applicants on a waitlist. Waitlisted applicants will be admitted as space becomes available, with preference given to early applicants with the most academically prepared applicants. See our Waitlist FAQs for more information.
  • Denied admission. Students denied admission are encouraged to reapply after improving their academic records by successfully completing college-level coursework at  a community college. Denied students may also appeal their admissions decision and submit additional materials, such as updated transcripts or new test scores.

What are the students like at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville?

Located in Fayetteville — one of the nation’s best places to live — the University of Arkansas is a destination for students interested in business, engineering, architecture, art, education, and the humanities. Our students have access to internships with some of the world’s most famous companies. They participate in one-on-one research with renowned faculty and study abroad in more than 56 countries. They learn in small classes, led by professors passionate about the subjects they teach. Best of all, our students have the academic support and career guidance needed to prepare for success after graduation.

 What about Financial Aid and Scholarships?

The university is committed to assisting you in finding the means to earn an education here, whether through one of our many transfer scholarship opportunities  or by a combination of loans, grants, and/or work-study opportunities. Learn more at finaid.uark.edu

Our academic scholarships are awarded to students who submit their scholarship application by the deadline. The scholarship deadline for the fall semester is April 1, and the deadline for the spring semester is October 15. Scholarships are awarded to applicants with the best grades, strongest coursework, most competitive standardized test scores, and strongest indications of leadership potential and community involvement.

Our counselors are always available to work with students and their families to come up with a plan for financing their U of A education. We encourage you to come and talk with us if you ever feel that finances will get in the way of enrolling in classes or continuing your education.

Can I find a job?

When approached wisely, working while in school can be a wonderful opportunity. We recommend that you first seek part-time employment on campus. If you are on financial aid, "work-study" may be a part of your aid package. The Financial Aid Office (in Silas Hunt Hall) has a list of jobs available for these funds.

You may also work on campus as a regular. part-time employee. In both areas, the range of jobs are huge — from library work to answering telephones to assisting faculty in their labs. To learn about some of these opportunities, call our campus employment hot-line at (479) 575-5627 (JOBS) or view the listings online.

Fayetteville and the surrounding Northwest Arkansas region provide excellent employment opportunities as well.

When do I register for courses?

All students should check UAConnect for any pre-registration holds you may have, including missing immunization records or financial agreement. To register for classes, transfer students must contact the advising office to meet with an academic advisor. Consult the schedule of registration periods. If you wish, you may participate in a specialized online or on-campus orientation session, but it is not required.

Transfer students with fewer than 24 transferable hours are considered Transfer Freshmen, and are advised to register for classes at New Student Orientation. After being admitted, you may register for an Orientation session, where you can meet with an advisor and enroll in your first semester of classes..

What if I need academic help?

College advisors are able to connect students with a variety of academic support resources. Libraries, computer labs, mentoring by upperclassmen, the Student Success Center, and more are available to help all students through the academic challenges they may encounter.

Instructors have office hours and are available to meet with you about any concerns or questions regarding course material.

What if I get sick?

The professional staff at the Pat Walker Health Center can take care of almost any medical issue from X-rays to counseling. Primary care physicians, specialists, nurse practitioners, and counselors are on hand to address both routine and emergency medical and mental health issues. Each medical clinic can bill with most major insurance providers. Guidance about billing and insurance is available on the Pat Walker Health Center website.

For convenient access to prescriptions, there is a pharmacy in the Walmart On Campus location across Garland Ave. from the Health Center.

How much will it cost for me to attend the U of A?

A higher education is an important and sometimes costly investment. A breakdown of tuition and fees is available through the Office of Financial Aid. We encourage students and their families to use our online Tuition and Fees Estimator to get an idea of the cost associated with attending the U of A.

Can transfer students live in on-campus housing?

The University of Arkansas housing department offers a blend of off-campus apartments and on-campus rooms. Students are encouraged to apply early to secure housing. Housing contracts open Tuesday, Oct. 3 for returning and transfer students. 

How will I get around? Is a car necessary?

The Razorback Transit System is a great way to get around campus and explore the surrounding town of Fayetteville. It serves the entire campus while also providing access to and from residential neighborhoods, supermarkets, local banks, the Fayetteville Square, Walmart, and the mall, all free of charge.

Students are allowed to bring their cars to the U of A. This is convenient for students who wish to go home for the weekend or explore the local area. Students wishing to park a car on campus must purchase a parking permit from Parking and Transit or pay hourly at some locations.

Will I get lost in the crowd?

Transitioning to a large campus can be an exciting and, at times, overwhelming venture. We encourage you to get involved in the campus community by attending sporting events, theatre performances, concerts, films, art exhibitions, and much more. The university offers over 400  Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) based on interests ranging from rock climbing to living optimistically, or you can join Associated Student Government (ASG) to help develop initiatives that benefit all students. To stay active, explore our many club and intramural sports. At the U of A, there is no shortage of opportunities to connect with other students outside of the classroom.

What about the quality of the faculty and academic programs?

The University of Arkansas was recently elevated to the highest possible classification by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, a status held by only a select number of the top universities in the nation. The hard work and innovative research of our internationally-recognized faculty help the University of Arkansas maintain its status as a leader in academia.

Does the U of A offer any internship or co-op programs?

Yes, our students have access to internship and co-op program opportunities in almost every academic program.

Co-ops provide students with a salary as well as practical work experience while they attend classes on campus. Students may even receive academic credit for their co-op experiences.

Students also have the opportunity for internship and co-op experiences in countries such as Switzerland, Germany, Belgium, Spain, and Japan. Many students also pursue internship opportunities with one of the many Fortune 500 companies located in the Northwest Arkansas region.

Does the U of A offer career placement?

The Career Development Center (CDC) works hard to help University of Arkansas students be competitive for the jobs they will pursue after graduation. Counselors can help you look for internships, polish your résumé, improve your interviewing skills, and more. Each year the CDC organizes multiple career fairs which allow you to interact with representatives from companies across the nation.

Will I feel safe at the University of Arkansas?

Campus safety measures include 90 campus emergency phones connected to central police dispatch, closed circuit security cameras, and electronic doors requiring security cards for access to residence hall. Students who wish for additional assistance can contact Razorback Patrol and request a walking escort. UAPD officers also are available for assistance. Another option for both on-campus and off-campus is Safe Ride, a regularly-scheduled van service.

The Pat Walker Health Center plays a major role in teaching students safety strategies. Programs focus on risk reduction, personal safety, and the safety of others.

In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, more information concerning safety along with the annual Clery security report can be found on uapd.uark.edu. The report in its entirety is available for download as a PDF. A paper copy of the report will be provided upon request.

Does the U of A have an admissions waitlist?

Depending on enrollment capacity, the U of A will place some applicants on a waitlist. Waitlisted applicants will be admitted as space becomes available, with preference given to early applicants with the most academically prepared applicants. See our Waitlist FAQs in the admissions decision section for more information.

Ready to Apply? Apply Now

The New Student Center manages your application process, including applying for admission, uploading related documents, applying for scholarship opportunities and registering for new student orientation.

Setting Up a New Student Center Account

  • Select “First-time users” to create an account to start a new application.

  • Enter the requested information. Use a personal email address that you will have access to at all times, even after graduation.

  • Check your email for a message from the Office of Admissions with the subject line “Account Created -  University of Arkansas Undergraduate Admissions,” and follow the steps listed there. Take note of the PIN included in this message – it is your temporary password to activate your account.

  • Follow the “Activate Account” link in this message to activate your account and establish a password.

Log into your New Student Center Account

  • Log in with the email address and password you set up before applying.

  • Enter the requested information. If you have forgotten your password, follow the "Forgot Your Password?" link available on the login screen.
  • Your Application Checklist will list the outstanding items for your application.
  • If you have questions or would like additional help, contact the Transfer Central at transfer@uark.edu or 479-575-5346. 


Check Your Application Status

Log in with the email address and password you set up before applying. Your Application Checklist will list the outstanding items for your application. View more check status details.


Common Troubleshooting Tips

Forgot your password or lose your PIN?

Visit the reset password page for returning users. Do not create an account using a separate email address. If you need help, please call 479-575-5346.

If you don’t receive an account set up email with the subject line “University of Arkansas Online Registration,” be sure to check your spam folder. We also recommend adding uofa@uark.edu to your email contacts list to avoid important emails being delivered to the wrong folder. If the email isn’t in your spam folder, use the “Forgot Password” feature to receive a new email.

Explore upcoming visits and college fairs on our map of events.

Transfer Webinar Series

Register to attend the transfer webinar series hosted by members of the Transfer Central team at the U of A. This series is designed to help guide you through the transfer process, share information about opportunities available to you, and answer any questions you may have along the way.

IMPORTANT DATES

Transfer Scholarships

Scholarships Information

The University of Arkansas offers transfer student scholarships each fall and spring semester to entering transfer students. Eligible students must have completed, or be in the process of completing, 24 or more transferable hours of college-level work from a regionally accredited institution of higher education other than the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. 

The New Arkansan Non-Resident Tuition Scholarship Award (NRTA) is a wonderful opportunity for students from the University of Arkansas’ neighboring states, making tuition and fees even more affordable. The NRTA scholarship covers the majority of the difference between out-of-state and in-state tuition, and is automatically granted to eligible students. For more information on NRTA, visit nrta.uark.edu.

Scholarship Deadlines

ADMISSIONS: Complete an admissions application to be considered for scholarships. Within 48 hours of application submission, the scholarship application will be available in your New Student Center.

October 14 - Scholarship Deadline for Spring Semester: Submit transcripts and a completed scholarship application by this date to be considered for an academic scholarship for the spring semester.

April 1 - Scholarship Deadline for Fall Semester: Submit transcripts and a completed scholarship application by this date to be considered for an academic scholarship for the fall semester.

Transfer Admissions Counselors

Chad Cox

Chad CoxAssociate Director of Transfer Central

Email:
chadc@uark.edu

Region: Transfer Central, National Merit Scholars
Chad Cox is the Associate Director of Transfer Central. He graduated from the University of the Ozarks with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and a Master of Science in Operations Management from the University of Arkansas. He's an active member of ArkACRAO and SACRAO, professional associations for educational professionals. 

Schedule a chat with Chad

Natt Watthanaphuti

Natt WatthanaphutiAdmission Counselor for Transfer Central

Email:
nw027@uark.edu

Region: Southeast Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Northeastern United States
Originally from Bangkok, Thailand, Natt Watthanaphuti is an admission counselor for Transfer Central. He works with transfer students from East Arkansas, Texas, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Louisiana. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from University of Arkansas at Monticello. 

Schedule a chat with Natt

Jon Swain

Jon SwainAdmission Counselor for Transfer Central

Email: jcswain@uark.edu

Region: NWACC, TAP, Benton County
Jon Swain is an admissions counselor for Transfer Central. He is originally from Noxapater, Mississippi. He holds an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts from East Mississippi Community College, a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Mississippi State University, and a Master of Science in Exercise Science from the University of North Alabama.

Schedule a chat with Jon

Alex Mardian

Alex MardianAdmission Counselor for Transfer Central

Email: apwillia@uark.edu

Region: Northwest Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Kansas, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming, Washington, Alaska, Hawaii

Alex Mardian is an admissions counselor for Transfer Central. He works with students from Northwest Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas. Originally from Warwick, Rhode Island, Alex is a proud graduate of the University of Arkansas and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Advertising/Public Relations. 

Schedule a chat with Alex

Orientation

As a transfer student, you have the opportunity to register for either an on-campus orientation session or an online orientation session. 

Transfer freshmen enrolling for the Fall 2024 semester are eligable to participate in priority registration during the spring and summer. It is encouraged that you attend one of our new transfer orientation sessions.

Admitted? Find out what's Next