Transfer Students

If you're thinking about taking the leap and coming to KCAI to finish your schooling, here is the information you need to do it. We think you'll like it here, and we'll help you make a smooth transition.

Transfer students may be admitted only up to and including the first semester junior level because they must complete a minimum of four full-time semesters at KCAI to qualify for the B.F.A. degree. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What documentation is required to transfer to KCAI?

All students petitioning for transfer credit(s) must submit official transcript(s) from the school(s) attended. Additional support documents may be requested by the Office of Admissions.  Transfer students who have completed less than 30 college credits must submit their standardized (SAT or ACT) test scores.

How is it determined at what level a transfer student will enter KCAI?

Placement is determined by the total number of transferable hours and by the level of competence as indicated by their portfolio review.

What courses will transfer?

KCAI will consider transferring in any liberal arts or studio credits that meet KCAI's requirements, with a grade of "C" or better, from colleges accredited by any of the regional accrediting associations or by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. Credits earned at nonaccredited institutions will not generally be accepted. Credit may be given for courses appropriate to the curriculum at KCAI. In the case of studio courses, individual exceptions can be made based on portfolio review and course evaluation by studio chairs and approval of the Vice President for Academic Affairs.

How is it determined how much transfer credit a student will receive?

In order to determine transfer credits, applicants must make an appointment or send in their portfolio for placement. Prior to registration, the transfer student receives an estimate by the Office of Admissions of the credit that can be expected for work done at a previous college(s).

How does KCAI convert a transfer student's quarter hours to semester hours?

Credits at KCAI are semester credits. The length of a semester at KCAI is sixteen weeks. A student coming from a college on the quarter system will receive two-thirds of a semester credit for every quarter credit. Thus, a three quarter credit class transfers as two semester credits. A four-quarter credit class also transfers as two semester credits. A five-quarter credit class transfers as three semester credits. A six-quarter credit class transfers as four semester credits. Students should contact their academic advisor for further information. 

Credit Conversions
Quarter = Semester credits
3 Quarter = 2 Semester credits
4 Quarter = 2 2/3 Semester credits
5 Quarter = 3 1/3 Semester credits
6 Quarter = 4 Semester credits

Will transferred courses be figured as part of a student's cumulative grade point average?

Grades for transferred credit will not be calculated into the KCAI cumulative grade point average, with the exception of mobility and KCASE exchange course grades, which are included in the GPA.

What coursework is required for transfer students?

Students enrolling at KCAI with 12 or more liberal arts transfer credits must complete all remaining liberal arts credits at KCAI. Students enrolling with fewer than 12 liberal arts transfer credits may transfer in up to a total of 12 liberal arts credits to be applied toward liberal arts requirements.

With approval, students may enroll in studio classes in their major concurrent with completing the Foundation requirement. 

Download KCAI's application for admissions

Ready to apply? Download the application for the Bachelor of Fine Arts program (includes instructions and two letter of recommendation forms) or apply online.