How to Apply to Ashford University: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re looking to start or continue your education, applying to Ashford University (now known as University of Arizona Global Campus) could be the first step toward reaching your academic and career goals. This guide walks you through the process, answering key questions, outlining important steps, and providing helpful tips to ensure you have a smooth application experience.

Why Choose Ashford University?

Choosing the right university is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, so why consider Ashford University? Ashford offers affordable tuition, flexible online coursesflexible online courses, and a wide range of degree programs. With everything from associate degrees to master’s programs, you can find something that aligns with your goals, no matter where you are in your academic journey.

Key Reasons to Apply:

• 100% Online Classes: Study from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Accelerated Programs: Many courses are accelerated, so you can earn your degree faster than traditional programs.
• Student Support Services: Access to advisors, tutoring, and career services.
• Affordable Tuition: Ashford is known for its competitive pricing and financial aid options.
• Accreditation: Ashford is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), ensuring high academic standards.

1. Eligibility Requirements

Before applying to Ashford, you need to check the basic eligibility requirements for enrollment. These are usually straightforward and include things like:

General Admission Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED: You need to have completed high school or have an equivalent qualification like a GED.
• Transcripts: Official transcripts from previous schools (including any college courses you’ve taken).
• Minimum GPA: While there’s flexibility, most programs require a minimum 2.0 GPA from high school or any college courses you’ve taken.
• English Proficiency: If English isn’t your first language, you’ll need to demonstrate proficiency, usually through TOEFL or IELTS.

For graduate programs, you might need a bachelor’s degree, and possibly some professional experience depending on the program you’re applying for.

2. Navigating the Application Process

Now that you’ve confirmed you’re eligible, it’s time to start your application. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to guide you through.

Step 1: Start the Online Application

Head to the University of Arizona Global Campus website and click on the “Apply Now” button. The application is 100% online, so you can fill it out from the comfort of your home.

Step 2: Fill Out Personal Information

You’ll need to provide some basic personal details, including:
– Full name
– Address
– Contact information
– Date of birth

Step 3: Educational Background

Next, you’ll need to submit information about your educational history:
– High school name and graduation year
– Colleges or universities attended (if applicable)
– Degree(s) earned (for graduate programs)

Step 4: Program Selection

Select the degree program you’re interested in. Ashford offers a variety of fields like:
– Business
– Education
– Health Sciences
– Information Technology
– Psychology
– Social and Behavioral Sciences

Step 5: Submit Transcripts

You’ll need to request that official transcripts be sent from your previous schools directly to Ashford. They can be submitted electronically or by mail, depending on the school’s protocol.

3. Applying for Financial Aid

Many students rely on financial aid to make college more affordable. Fortunately, Ashford University offers a wide range of options, including:
– Federal Financial Aid: Fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to see what kind of federal aid (like loans or grants) you qualify for.
– Scholarships: Search for Ashford-specific scholarships or general scholarships that can help fund your education.
– Military Benefits: If you’re a member of the military or a veteran, Ashford offers special tuition discounts and benefits.

How to Apply for Financial Aid:

1. Complete the FAFSA: Visit fafsa.ed.gov to fill out your application. Be sure to use Ashford’s school code: 001881.
2. Review Financial Aid Offer: Once your FAFSA is processed, you’ll receive a breakdown of the aid you’re eligible for.
3. Accept or Decline Offers: You can choose to accept all, some, or none of the financial aid offers.

Important Tips:

• Apply for FAFSA as early as possible. The sooner you apply, the more aid you could qualify for.
• If you’re planning to use military benefits, get in touch with Ashford’s Military Admissions team for guidance.

4. Transfer Students: What You Need to Know

If you’ve already earned some college credits and are considering transferring to Ashford University, good news—you can transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor’s degree!

How to Transfer Credits:

1. Submit Official Transcripts: As part of your application, submit transcripts from any colleges or universities you’ve previously attended.
2. Credit Evaluation: Ashford’s Registrar’s Office will review your transcripts to determine how many credits can be transferred.
3. Transfer Credit Limit: You can transfer up to 90 credits toward a bachelor’s degree, or 12 credits toward a master’s degree.

5. Graduate Programs: Additional Steps

If you’re applying for a graduate program, the process is similar but with a few added requirements. You may need:
– Bachelor’s Degree: A verified degree from an accredited institution.
– Resume or CV: For some programs, professional experience is necessary, so having an updated resume may be required.
– Letters of Recommendation: Certain programs may ask for recommendations from previous professors or employers.
– Statement of Purpose: This is an essay explaining why you’re interested in the program and how it fits into your career goals.

6. FAQs About Applying to Ashford University

Here are answers to some of the most common questions that prospective students have about the application process.

1. Can I Apply if I Don’t Have My High School Diploma Yet?

Yes, you can apply, but you’ll need to provide proof of graduation before starting classes.

2. How Long Does the Application Process Take?

The online application only takes about 30 minutes to complete. Once you’ve submitted all required materials (transcripts, etc.), you should hear back from Ashford within 7-10 business days.

3. What If I’m Not Sure Which Program to Choose?

Ashford offers academic advising to help you decide which program best aligns with your goals. You can contact an admissions counselor for advice.

7. Deadlines and Important Dates

One of the great things about Ashford University is that they offer rolling admissions, which means there’s no strict deadline for applying. However, you should be mindful of the start dates for the academic terms, as you’ll want to apply well before the classes begin.

8. Submitting Your Application: Final Checklist

Before hitting submit, make sure you’ve completed all the necessary steps. Here’s a handy checklist:

Application Checklist:

• [ ] Complete online application form
• [ ] Submit official transcripts
• [ ] Select your degree program
• [ ] Apply for financial aid (if needed)
• [ ] Review and submit application

9. After You Apply: What Happens Next?

Once you’ve submitted your application, here’s what you can expect:
1. Confirmation Email: You’ll receive an email confirming that your application was successfully submitted.
2. Application Review: Admissions officers will review your application and transcripts.
3. Decision: Within 7-10 days, you’ll get an email with their decision. If accepted, you’ll receive further instructions on enrolling in courses and starting your program.

10. The Importance of Staying Connected

Throughout the process, stay in touch with your admissions counselor. They can answer any lingering questions and provide updates on your application. Don’t hesitate to ask for help—they’re there to guide you every step of the way!

Conclusion

Applying to Ashford University (University of Arizona Global Campus) is a straightforward and flexible process that can set you on the path to achieving your educational and career goals. Whether you’re fresh out of high school, a transfer student, or looking to pursue a graduate degree, following these steps will make the application process easy and efficient. With the right preparation and support, you’ll be ready to embark on your academic journey in no time!