Transfer International Students
Transferring to the University of Michigan-Flint is easier than you may think, and this page walks you through the requirements, steps, and resources to earn your U-M degree.
Finish Strong—Earn Your U-M Degree
No matter where you began your college education, you can earn your bachelor’s degree from UM-Flint. We welcome international transfer students from all over the world into our growing community, built on inclusivity and innovation.
Whether you are transferring from a university abroad or another institution within the United States, our seamless transfer admissions process supports your unique educational journey.
On this page
International Transfer Requirements
To transfer to UM-Flint, international students must have a cumulative college GPA of 2.0 or higher and at least 24 completed credit hours. Those with fewer than 24 credits must also submit an official high school transcript.
- Students with an Associate of Arts or Science degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution may be admitted regardless of GPA.
- Unofficial transcripts are accepted for admission, but official transcripts from all institutions attended are required as soon as they are available.
To earn a U-M degree, international transfer students must complete at least 30 credits at UM-Flint. You must also satisfy all requirements for the degree you are pursuing.
Application Deadlines
- Fall: July 1
- Winter: Nov. 1
Please also keep the following dates in mind when planning your application process:
- Winter I-20 Issue Deadline: Dec.1
- Priority Housing Application Deadline: Feb. 1
- Fall I-20 Issue Deadline: Aug. 1
Transfer to UM-Flint in Five Steps
UM-Flint has simplified the international transfer process so future Wolverines around the world can keep working toward their degree.
Step 1: Submit Your Online U-M Application
The first step to start your transfer process is submitting your online application by the priority deadlines to secure your spot. Our application is free and easy. After applying and sending your required materials, you can expect an admissions decision within two to four weeks.
Step 2: Send in Additional Required Documents
Next, you must complete and upload the original or attested copies of the documents listed below using iStart Services. You’ll receive login instructions by email within 48 hours of completing your application
Submit official transcripts from each college or university you’ve attended. Transcripts not in English require an attested translation (you may not translate your own). You can use unofficial transcripts as placeholders until official ones arrive.
If your country issues only one original transcript or certificate, request an attested copy: send a photocopy (never the original) to the issuing institution, which verifies it, stamps it and seals it in an institutional envelope. The institution can mail it directly to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, or you may deliver the unopened envelope in person.
All submitted documents become UM-Flint property and cannot be returned.
Office of Undergraduate Admissions
303 E Kearsley Street
121 University Center
Flint, MI 48502-1950
All international applicants to UM-Flint must demonstrate English proficiency in order to be admitted. English Proficiency exam scores can be submitted in iStart Services for all accepted exams except Duolingo. If you have taken the Duolingo English Test, scores must be sent to UM-Flint directly from the testing agency.
If you are transferring to UM-Flint from another US institution and have completed a minimum of 24 credit hours at a regionally accredited institution, including passage of courses equivalent to UM-Flint’s ENG 112 with a grade of a “B” or above, the requirement to submit English proficiency scores may be waived.
If you are a citizen of or completed your previous education in an English proficiency-exempt country, you may not be required to submit additional proof of English proficiency. Final decisions regarding exemption are made by the Office of International Admissions.
| Test | Score |
|---|---|
| Duolingo | 100 |
| ELS | Certificate of Completion (ELS Level 112) |
| IELTS (Academic) | 6.0 overall band |
| iTep Academic | Level 3.5 or higher |
| MLC (Michigan Language Center) | Advanced Star 1 |
| Pearson PTE Academic | 59 |
| TOEFL iBT (2025 and earlier) | 72 |
| TOEFL iBT (2026 and later | 4 |
| TOEFL Essentials | 8 |
If you are an international student seeking an F-1 status, you must have a current, official passport from your country of origin to enter the United States and to attend UM-Flint.
Learn more about how to apply for your student visa.
Step 3: Paying for Your U-M Degree
Review Transfer Scholarship Opportunities
No matter your previous academic background, when you apply to UM-Flint as an international transfer student, you automatically qualify for merit scholarships. Since your application doubles as your scholarship application, you save time and money.
Submit Proof of Financial Support
Additionally, you must complete an affidavit showing proof of financial support. You can access this document through iStart Services, and it is required to secure an I-20 for F-1 status.
Acceptable sources of funding include:
- A bank statement that includes a current balance.
- Funds must be held in a checking, savings or certificate of deposit account. All accounts must be in your name or your sponsor’s name. For sponsor funds to be counted toward the I-20 requirement, the sponsor must sign the Financial Affidavit of Support. Statements must be no more than six months old at the time of submission.
- Approved loan documents, including the total amount approved.
- Please submit the offer letter if you have been offered a scholarship, grant, assistantship, or other funding through the University of Michigan-Flint. The department providing the financing will verify all university funding.
You may prove sufficient funding using multiple sources. For instance, you may submit a bank statement and a loan document equaling the required amount. For an I-20 to be issued, you must provide proof of sufficient funding to cover the estimated international expenses for one year of study.
Learn more about UM-Flint’s tuition and fees for international students.
If you have dependents accompanying you in the United States, you must also prove sufficient funding to cover the estimated expenses for each dependent.
Unacceptable sources of funding include:
- Stocks, bonds, and other securities
- Corporate bank accounts or other accounts not in your name or your sponsor’s name. Exceptions may be made if an organization sponsors you.
- Real estate or other property
- Loan applications or pre-approval documents
- Retirement funds, insurance policies, or other non-liquid assets
Step 4: Evaluate Your Credits and Submit the Transfer-In Form
At UM-Flint, we take the guesswork out of the transfer process. We encourage you to use our online credit transfer evaluator to calculate how your previously earned credits from U.S. colleges and universities can transfer to the University of Michigan-Flint. With the help of this tool, you can stay on track and graduate on time.
Please note: If you have elected to receive pass/fail grades on your collegiate transcripts, we award transfer credit for passing courses. However, certain secondary admit programs at UM-Flint may still require letter grades to admit you to their program.
Transfer-In Form
If you are transferring from a United States institution, you must fill out a transfer-in form in iStart Services. This step is not required if you are transferring from an international institution.
Step 5: Applying for On-Campus Housing
After you’ve received admission to UM-Flint, you can apply for on-campus accommodations by submitting our easy housing application.
Housing & Residential Life works to create vibrant residential communities where you can room with other students who share similar goals, identities, and academic interests. Whichever student accommodation suits you, you’ll enjoy safe and comfortable housing that makes you feel at home.
Get Involved in Our Thriving Campus Life
Adjusting to a new campus doesn’t have to be a challenge. At UM-Flint, the Division of Student Affairs creates an inclusive environment where you and your peers can connect outside of class. We offer more than 90 student-led clubs and organizations tailored to a broad range of student interests, and we encourage you to get involved! Joining a club or student group helps you expand your hobbies, meet new people, and grow as a well-rounded individual.
Along with extracurricular opportunities, you can access international student services and resources that help you settle into life away from home. The Center for Global Engagement provides these essential services to ensure you have the support you need.
Admitted International Students—What’s Next?
If you’ve been admitted to UM-Flint, you can start preparing for life in the US. Our Incoming International Students page outlines pre-arrival information so you can take the next critical steps, such as securing your visa or scheduling your orientation.
Connect with Our International Admissions Experts
Transfer to UM-Flint with ease by connecting with our international admissions experts. Whether you have questions about how your credits transfer or your English proficiency test scores, our admissions team has all the information and resources you need to complete your U-M application and be on your way to earning your degree. Contact UM-Flint’s International Admissions by calling +1-810-762-3300 or emailing international.flint@umich.edu.
Annual Security & Fire Safety Notice
The University of Michigan-Flint’s Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available online at go.umflint.edu/ASR-AFSR. The ASR-AFSR includes Clery Act crime and fire statistics for the preceding three years for locations owned and or controlled by UM-Flint, the required policy disclosure statements and other important safety-related information. A paper copy of the ASR-AFSR is available on request made to Department of Public Safety by calling 810-762-3330, by email to UM-Flint.CleryCompliance@umich.edu or in person at DPS at the Hubbard Building at 602 Mill Street; Flint, MI 48502.