Frequently Asked Questions

Who is considered a transfer student?
Any student graduating from high school or who has earned a GED and has enrolled in a college or university for at least one semester of full-time study (or is in the process when completing an application) is eligible to apply as a transfer student.

When is the best time to apply for transfer admission?
Students are welcome to apply for either September (fall) or January (spring) admission to Bentley. The deadlines are April 15 for fall and November 1 for spring. There is no preferred option to apply for admission. The criteria and selection process is similar for each option.

If I previously applied to Bentley, what should I do to be reconsidered for admission?
You should begin by reviewing and submitting the Common Application. You will be required to send updated official transcripts (including a final high school transcript if one has not already been sent). You are not required to resend official test scores if they have already been received.

When will I be notified of an admission decision?
The admission committee begins reviewing applications for admission prior to the application deadlines.  A notification of decision is usually sent approximately two weeks following the completion of an application for admission.

If I am accepted to Bentley, is it possible to defer my admission?
Yes, you may defer admission for up to one year from the term you submit your application for admission. If you choose to defer admission, you are not eligible to continue studies at another college or university. There are no exceptions to this policy. If you pursue this option, you must submit your $500 enrollment deposit prior to your deposit deadline.  A completed and signed copy of the Request for Deferment Form must also accompany the enrollment deposit and is available by request through the Office of Undergraduate Admission.

How will I know what courses will transfer to Bentley?
Once accepted to Bentley, you will be sent a preliminary transfer credit evaluation.  This evaluation will list all courses accepted by Bentley along with an equivalency designation so that you may learn how each course will be applied to your degree program upon entrance. Bentley typically accepts credits from most accredited colleges and universities, assuming you have earned a minimum grade of "C" (or its equivalent) or higher and the course is determined to be three academic credits or higher at the prior institution. All credits are evaluated on a course by course basis.

Is an interview recommended for transfer students?
Interviews are available and you are more than welcome to schedule one if you are interested. A one-on-one meeting with an admission officer gives you the chance to speak candidly about your interest in Bentley and talk openly about your academic and extracurricular achievements. To schedule an interview, please use our appointment calendar.  If you require additional assistance, contact the Office of Undergraduate Admission at 781.891.2244 or 800.523.2354, or e-mail our office at ugavisits@bentley.edu.

Do I have to declare my academic major when I apply for admission?
No. When applying to Bentley, you are applying to the institution and not a specific academic program or department. Students entering Bentley as transfer students will be expected to declare their academic major at the end of their sophomore year. If you enter Bentley having earned advanced sophomore standing, you will be given a chance to declare your major soon after entering.

Is housing available for transfer students?
Generally, on-campus housing is available for transfer students provided all appropriate housing application forms and enrollment deposit are received by the specified deadlines. In exceptional situations, we are not able to guarantee space in campus housing.

Do most transfer students live with other students who have transferred to Bentley?
Based on the availability of housing, transfer students are typically placed in living arrangements with consideration given to their grade level.

Am I required to purchase a laptop computer if I enroll at Bentley?
Yes, all new students entering Bentley are required to purchase a laptop through the Bentley Mobile Computing Program.

Is it easy to get involved in campus activities?
You bet!  At the beginning of the academic year, a campus-wide activity fair is hosted by all Bentley clubs and organizations. This is a great opportunity for new students to learn about the many opportunities to get involved in any number of our 100+ campus groups.

Are there any orientation programs available for transfer students?
Bentley offers a full orientation program for all incoming students. Prior to this event, all transfer students are also invited to attend a registration program to register for classes.

Is there a Commuters Association on campus?
Yes.  Although only a small percentage of our students commute, this association receives a great deal of support on campus. The commuter student lounge is a popular "hangout" on campus for students to meet and study.

Can I have a car on-campus?
Only transfer students who possess a minimum of 10 transferable courses are permitted to have cars on campus.  All commuter students are allowed to have a car on campus.

Can I still study abroad if I transfer to Bentley?
With careful planning, you can absolutely take advantage of such programs. You will be encouraged to speak with an academic adviser to plan your course selection early on at Bentley, so this will be possible.