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Admissions
For more than 100 years, Golden Gate University has empowered working adults to achieve their personal and professional goals with flexible, affordable degrees and certificates.
Applying to Golden Gate University
Whether it’s your first time attending university or you’re ready to earn an advanced degree, GGU has options that can help you achieve your goals. We understand that the admissions process can seem overwhelming at any level of higher education, that’s why our enrollment team is here to help you throughout the process. We’ll make sure you get the information you need, answer any questions you may have, and provide you with the support you need to graduate.
Admissions requirements will vary depending on your academic level as well as your program of interest. Check below for details on how to apply and connect with an Enrollment Advisor to help answer any questions you may have.
Undergraduate Admissions
Undergraduate program application requirements include:
- Minimum 2.0 GPA
- Online application
- Resume or CV
- Unofficial transcripts from all previously attended institutions (official transcripts will be required after admission)
Some of our bachelor’s degree programs may have additional application requirements.
We encourage you to explore your program of interest or get in touch with an Enrollment Advisor for full details.
Graduate Admissions
At Golden Gate University, we take a holistic approach to reviewing applications for our degree and certificate programs. While the following criteria serve as general guidelines, we consider each applicant’s unique background and potential for success in our programs. Different programs may prioritize different factors, and we encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every requirement listed below.
General Graduate Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must have earned a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or its equivalent from a recognized non-U.S. institution. In some cases, applicants with degrees from non-regionally accredited U.S. institutions may be considered on an exception basis. However, admission and/or transfer of credits from unaccredited institutions is not guaranteed.
- International Applicants: For those who have completed their studies outside of the United States, your degree must be equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree. Three-year international baccalaureate degrees that are equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree may also be considered.
- Grade Point Average (GPA): A cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B) or higher is typically required. This GPA includes all grades received, including those for repeated courses. However, some programs may accept a GPA of 2.5 or higher in undergraduate coursework. Please check with your specific program for detailed GPA requirements.
- Academic and Professional Capabilities: We look for evidence of your ability to succeed at the graduate level, including your academic preparation and professional experience.
- Skills for Success: Strong quantitative, writing, and computing skills are important for thriving in a competitive, dynamic learning environment.
- Statement of Purpose: A personal Statement of Purpose is required, outlining your reasons for pursuing graduate studies, your professional goals, and how our program aligns with your aspirations.
- Additional Requirements: Some graduate programs may require supplementary materials, such as GMAT or GRE scores, to further demonstrate academic potential.
Please Note: If your academic background does not fully meet the criteria but we believe you have the potential for success, you may be conditionally admitted with the approval of the academic department. Conditional admission requires that students achieve a 3.0 cumulative GPA within the first nine units of coursework. Failure to do so will result in academic disqualification. Please refer to the Graduate Student Academic Standing Standards for further details.
International Admissions
In addition to our undergraduate or graduate application requirements, international applicants are required to submit:
- Transcript evaluations for foreign transcripts
- English Language Proficiency scores (exceptions apply)
- A copy of your passport
- A Certification of Finances form
Some of our programs may have additional application requirements. We encourage you to explore your program of interest or contact an Enrollment Advisor if you have any questions. You can also browse our International Student Admissions page for more details about transcript evaluations, documentation, and other requirements.
Military and
Veteran Students
Golden Gate University is in the top 15% of colleges and universities nationwide who have contributed to the Yellow Ribbon Program for our country’s veterans to reach their educational goals.
Our Helen Diller Center for Veterans of U.S. Military Service is staffed by a dedicated team of veterans and military family members, who are committed to ensuring the best possible experience for student veterans and military-connected students at Golden Gate University.
From starting an application and navigating VA benefits to starting a career search and transitioning to civilian life, we’re here to support you through every step of your journey.
Online Education at GGU
At GGU, we’re focused on removing barriers and empowering you to reach your goals in the way that works best for you. That’s why we offer online and hybrid programs that give you the flexibility you need to balance earning your degree with work, family, and everyday life.
While Golden Gate University can provide online education to students residing in most states, there are some exceptions.
Before starting your application, we encourage you to view our State Authorizations list and make sure that you are eligible to receive online education from GGU in your state.
Are you looking to
transfer credits to
Golden Gate University?
Many of our students can accelerate the completion of their degrees by transferring credits earned from qualifying universities.
Want to find out which credits will transfer to GGU before you apply? We make it easy to learn how many of your credits will transfer.
To get started, simply create a free Transferology account, add all courses you’d like to transfer, and find out how many credits you can apply toward your GGU degree program.
Why Earn a Degree
from Golden Gate University?
At Golden Gate University, we offer more than 60 online and hybrid degree programs for working adults and nontraditional students. Our nationally renowned undergraduate and graduate degrees and career-advancing professional certificates are practical and skills-based to meet the demands of today’s employers. Our scholar practitioners have decades of professional experience from San Francisco Bay Area, Silicon Valley, and Fortune 500 companies. As a leader in online education for nearly three decades, GGU’s programs offer maximum flexibility for modern students.
We prepare our students to lead and serve by providing high-quality, practice-based educational programs in an innovative and challenging learning environment that embraces professional ethics and diversity. Our graduates join a vibrant and dynamic network of 70,000 proud alumni across the globe.
Connect with
an Enrollment Advisor
Our Enrollment Team is here to support you as you find the right path for your future. Your dedicated Enrollment Advisor provides, no pressure, personalized support to help you find your program, answer any questions, start your application, and get enrolled in your courses.
Our Enrollment Advisors can help you:
- Choose a program that fits your goals and lifestyle
- Learn more about curriculum, tuition, and admission requirements
- Gather your application materials and submit your application
- Explore financial aid and scholarship options
- Enroll in your first GGU courses
When you’re ready to start your journey, our Enrollment Advisors will be here to help answer all of your questions about Golden Gate University.
To get started request information from any form on this website or if you’re ready to speak to someone now, call 415-442-7800 today for a no-obligation conversation about how GGU can help you make your goals a reality.
