FAQ's by Transfers, 1-25
1. What are the minimum requirements for transfer admission?
There is no specific number of credits required to transfer to Guilford. We expect a minimum of a 2.5 GPA, but will consider all applications.
2. What does the Admission Office take into consideration when admitting a transfer student?
Strength of academic record, including all previous college work, high school work and SAT/ACT (if less than 30 credit hours are earned), GPA, written essay or graded writing sample, personal qualities and involvement, interview can be very important, especially when dealing with a marginal student.
3. How is Guilford known?
Guilford is known for being the only Quaker institution in the South (one of only 14 on the country), the third oldest coeducational institution in the country and a major stop on the Underground Railroad, among many other things. Guilford's concern and respect for the individual, its beliefs on egalitarianism, consensus decision-making, social justice and responsibility and diversity make the College unique. The student voice is powerful at Guilford as almost all campus committees have student representation. Guilford is the fastest growing college or university in North Carolina since 2000.
In Greensboro Guilford is well respected for its Project Community volunteer program. Guilford students provide ten different Greensboro organizations with assistance each week. Over 50,000 hours of volunteer service are given each academic year. What is more unique is that this is a totally run student organization.
4. What kind of financial aid is available?
Both federal and institutional monies in the form of grants, scholarships, work-study and loans are available. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is available from your high school guidance counselor or online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.
Total cost for room, board, tuition and fees for the 2006-07 academic year is $29,735. What is the average financial aid package? This is a very difficult question. The "average financial aid package" is determined by (among other things):
- Home state of the student - North Carolina students are eligible for in-state grants ($1,900 in 2006-07 and Guilford matches this grant)
- Income, assets and financial situations of the family
- Number of family members in college
- Academic preparation of the student
- Need level as determined by the FAFSA (www.fafsa.ed.gov)
Over $21 million in need-based aid, merit awards and other entitlements was awarded in 2006-07. The average institutional award is $9,037.
5. Describe the curriculum.
The curriculum consists of five tiers: Foundations, Explorations, Major, Concentration, and Capstone. Each student normally completes 12 general education requirements (Foundations, Explorations, Capstone), eight courses for the major, and four for the concentration. The Guilford curriculum supports the College's Quaker heritage by asking each student to explore topics in Social Justice, Environmental Responsibility, Diversity in the US and an Intercultural course.
Study abroad is a popular option for Guilford students. Approximately 35-40% of students will go abroad. For more information, visit www.guilford.edu/studyabroad.
6. How important/popular is Greek life?
Non-existent. There are no fraternities or sororities at Guilford. Exclusive clubs and organizations function in opposition to Quaker beliefs, and thus are not allowed within the college community.
7. Are students allowed to have cars? Do you have to have one?
You can have a car from freshmen year on, though there are restaurants, shops, banks, grocery store, pharmacy within walking distance.
8. Do I apply for financial aid before or after I apply for admission?
It is recommended that you begin the application process prior to admission, in order to expedite the financial aid decision. You may file the FAFSA anytime after January 1. The FAFSA is available from your high school guidance counselor, though we recommend that you file online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.
9. How many transfer students come each semester?
For spring, we have about 15 and for fall, around 60.
10. When should I apply for transfer admission?
We prefer to receive transfer applications for the fall semester by June 1. We prefer to receive transfer applications for the spring semester by December 1.
11. What kind of activities takes place on the weekends?
Greensboro is a good "college city." There are five colleges and universities within the city limits, with several more nearby. Movies, concerts, coffee houses, recreation activities, outdoor activities (hiking, skiing), sporting events, comedy acts, etc. There are generally a variety of activities available, something for everyone.
12. How many students are from out-of-state?
63% of students are from out of state. Guilford has students from 44 states and 15 countries.
13. Do I have to live on campus?
Most students live on campus until they are 21 years old or have 88 credit hours (unless living with parents or other relatives). Statistics show students who live on campus perform better both academically and socially, and become more involved in the campus community. Approximately 80% of Guilford traditional students live on campus. You can apply through Campus Life to live off campus and they will make the final decision.
14. What kinds of student organizations are on campus?
All clubs are non-exclusive (anyone can join), and include academic, political, religious, sports and general interest related. In addition, students can become involved in the campus newspaper, radio station, or literary magazine.
15. What is the faculty-student ratio? How big will the classes be?
Approximately 16:1. Actual class size depends on the department and demand for that course. Classes typically get smaller as you advance in your major. The average class size is 18. Guilford has 133 full time faculty.
16. Is the campus safe?
Guilford is located in a suburban area of Greensboro with a low crime rate. The campus is well-lighted, and a comprehensive security team provides campus escorts after dark if a student requests it. Reducing risk by avoiding darkened or isolated areas, walking in groups, and keeping doors locked is encouraged.
17. Is the student body liberal or conservative?
Because of the emphasis placed upon social awareness and community involvement, the campus body tends to the left with regard to political leanings. However, all political views are welcomed and encouraged.
18. How many minority students do you have?
- 10% African American
- 2% Hispanic
- 1% Native American
- 2% Asian
Nearly 16% of the 2006 entering First Year class were Students of Color
19. What percentage of your students continues their education after college?
Approximately 25 % attend graduate or professional school within one year of graduation, 50% within five years.
20. Are internships available?
The Career and Community Learning Center offers a broad selection of programs for all students. Many students choose the option of internships. Students can earn up to 12 credits for internships. The city of Greensboro provides a tremendous "laboratory" for our students.
21. What is the consortium?
Consortium agreements allow Guilford students to cross register at the local college and universities. When a student needs a course that is not offered at a convenient time, not offered at all or not in the proper sequence, the student can attend a class at one of the other seven local institutions.
22. What kind of learning disabled services do you offer?
Guilford College does not offer a specific learning disabled program. All students may utilize the services of the The Learning Commons. Professional tutors work with individuals to improve reading, writing, and quantitative skills, as well as time management. Peer tutoring is also available. A Learning Disabled Association offers peer support and programs for our learning disabled students. Motivated students with learning disabilities have been very successful at Guilford.
23. Tell me about Guilford's retention and graduation rate?
Seventy-seven to eighty percent of Guilford first-year students return for the second year. Sixty-eight percent of students graduate in six years.
24. How do I get from the airport to your institution?
Bryan Blvd. east from the airport. Exit at New Garden Road/Guilford College exit. Right at the end of the exit ramp on to New Garden Road. At stop light, left, staying on New Garden. Take a left at the second stoplight on the campus. More complete directions are listed on www.guilford.edu. Go to the admission link.
25. Where can I stay close to campus?
A list is available at www.guilford.edu/visit.