How to apply if you're a transfer student

Applications for Fall 2026 will open October 1.

A transfer applicant is anyone who has completed for-credit coursework at a recognized post-secondary institution. AUArts welcomes transfer students from institutions across Canada and internationally.

How to Apply as a Transfer Student

Transfer applicants follow the same four-step application process as all undergraduate applicants.

Learn how to apply in 4 easy steps

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Academic Requirements for Transfer Applicants

To be considered for admission as a transfer student, you must:

  • Have a minimum cumulative GPA (CGPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
  • Successfully complete an academic English course with a minimum grade of C (60%).

AUArts primarily reviews your most recent level of education, but we may also require transcripts from earlier studies, including high school.

In addition to academic qualifications, all applicants must meet English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements.

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Portfolio Requirements

As a transfer applicant to a Bachelor's degree program, you may be eligible for a portfolio exemption if you qualify for direct admission into second or third year with a CGPA of 2.67 or higher.

If you do not meet the exemption criteria, you will be required to submit a portfolio that follows the same guidelines as all undergraduate applicants.

View portfolio requirements

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English Language Proficiency (ELP)

If the primary language of instruction at your most recently attended institution was not English, you may need to submit results from an approved ELP test.

See full ELP details

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Transfer Credit Information

Transfer credit assessments vary depending on your previous program of study. Please read the applicable section below:

1. Students from Art, Craft, or Design Programs (and AICAD institutions)

If you are currently enrolled in or have completed at least 24 post-secondary credits in an art, craft, or design-related program, you may be eligible for direct entry into second or third year of the Bachelor of Design or Bachelor of Fine Arts programs.

AUArts does not automatically assess transfer credits. After applying, you will receive a form to formally request a transfer credit assessment.

2. Students from Non-Art, Craft, or Design Programs

Transfer students from unrelated programs are also welcome. However, only courses directly relevant to your chosen program may be eligible for transfer credit and must be supported by official, final transcripts.

As with art-based programs, transfer credit is not assessed automatically. You will be sent a form after applying to request a formal course transfer credit assessment.

3. Students from Partner Institutions with Articulation Agreements

If you will or have completed a diploma, certificate, or equivalent credential from one of our block transfer agreement partners, you may qualify for entry into the second or third year of the Bachelor of Design or Bachelor of Fine Arts program.

To earn an AUArts degree, transfer students must complete at least 60 credits at AUArts, regardless of transfer credit. For more details about block transfer partner institutions, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@auarts.ca

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Learn more about the transfer credit process here

 

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Advanced Placement (AP) College Board and International Baccalaureate (IB) Recognition

AUArts recognizes both International Baccalaureate (IB) and Advanced Placement (AP) College Board courses for transfer credit consideration.

  • IB: Final, official scores of 5 or higher in Higher Level (HL) subjects may be eligible.
  • AP: Final, official scores of 4 or higher may be eligible.

Credits must be applicable to the program you are applying for and supported by official, final transcripts.

AUArts does not automatically assess transfer credits for completed IB and AP coursework. After applying, you will receive a form to formally request a transfer credit assessment.

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Looking for additional support?

If you have further questions about transfer requirements or course credit assessment, please reach out to our admissions team at admissions@auarts.ca or book a 1-on-1 virtual appointment. We’re here to help you get started on your creative journey at AUArts!