Transfer to St. Ambrose

Who is a transfer student?

A "transfer student" is anyone who wants to bring in at least 12 credits earned at other universities or colleges (not while in high school). You may also want to check out our Dual Admission Program that offers numerous benefits and a $1,000 renewable scholarship.

Every year St. Ambrose University welcomes approximately 350 students who transfer to our university looking for more personal attention and respected programs. With more than 70 academic programs, Ambrose can tailor each individual's education to his or her career goals and interests.

Students come here from many different backgrounds (community college or large universities), but quickly find themselves right at home. Our staff is dedicated to making your transition as smooth as possible, beginning with orientation during one afternoon.

Non-traditional students

Non-traditional students who are interested in adult-oriented, evening, weekend, or online courses may be best served by the ACCEL Program. The Adult College Curriculum for Education and Leadership (ACCEL) Program offers intensive academic programs that are centered on non-traditional students and delivered through innovative instruction. Students entering the ACCEL Program need to have at least three years of work experience and should have previously completed 12 or more college credits, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.

How do we ease your transition?

• A supportive community with many services and resources, and several residential options.
• Ambrose students representing many different faiths, inspired by the tenets of our Catholic intellectual tradition.
• Opportunities to get involved in athletics, clubs and service, to help you make friends and explore your leadership capabilities.
• The Information Literacy Course, which will acquaint you with the library's resources, friendly staff and free printers.
• Faculty members who are committed to your personal growth. You'll only be taught by professors (no TAs). Small-group learning and encouraging professors make it easy to connect with others and put your ideas into practice.

Financial aid

Transfers are eligible for the same types of need-based financial aid and academic scholarships as traditionally-admitted students.

• Phi Theta Kappa members who enter from a community college are eligible to apply for the Phi Theta Kappa scholarship.
• Transfers who enter with a 3.0 GPA and the required level of financial need also qualify for Ambrose's Out-of-State Scholars Program, which awards $3,000 scholarships.

If you are a current SAU student seeking information on the transfer of college credits to SAU, contact the Records and Registration Office at 563/333-6202. For more information on transferring to your advantage, contact Becky Stremlow, associate director of admissions, or Erin Girsch, transfer counselor, at 563/333-6300 or admit@sau.edu.