It can be hard to decide where to go to college. Especially when you want to get started quickly, applying for scholarships and financial aid, filling out applications for student loans, and visiting campuses. If you’re not sure where you’ll be attending school, then pursuing an online degree can be less overwhelming — it’s convenient, easy, affordable, and offered by many of the most prestigious colleges in the nation.

Applying to online colleges that don’t require college transcripts can be a convenient and cost-effective way to pursue higher education without the hassle of submitting previous academic records. With certain U.S. accredited colleges waiving the need for transcripts from applicants with no prior college experience, obtaining a degree online has never been more accessible. If you’re looking for information on online colleges that offer open admission and don’t require transcripts, you’re in the right place. Collegelearners can provide you with insights on how to study at these institutions and help you navigate the application process.

In order to be eligible for admission to online colleges that don’t require college transcripts, applicants typically need to meet basic admission requirements. This may include having a high school diploma or GED equivalent, as well as meeting any specific requirements set by the institution. Some colleges may also require proof of English proficiency for non-native speakers. Additionally, applicants may need to submit an application form, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.

List of Online Colleges That Don’t Require College Transcripts

The admission process for online colleges that don’t require college transcripts may vary from institution to institution, but generally, applicants will need to fill out an online application form and submit any required documentation, such as proof of high school completion.

Once the application is submitted, the college will review the materials and make a decision on admission. Some colleges may also require students to complete placement tests to determine their readiness for college-level coursework. Overall, the process is designed to be straightforward and accessible for individuals who are looking to further their education without the need for prior college transcripts.

1	National University SAN DIEGO, CA	California’s second-largest private, nonprofit university, National is known for promoting diversity and inclusion through its year-round open enrollment admissions policy. The school maintains 27 campuses throughout California and one Nevada location. Students admitted to National can access an extensive virtual library and deep discounts on textbooks, as well as competitive buyback prices and free shipping, made possible through a partnership with the country’s largest mail order textbook supplier.	ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Graduation rate: 33% Students enrolled: 17,488 Student-to-faculty ratio: 20:1
2	Walden University MINNEAPOLIS, MN	This online-only university offers programs at every level for adult students with work and life experience. In addition to upholding an open enrollment policy for general admission, Walden offers a generous transfer-credit policy, accepting prior credit for life experience, work experience, military service, placement exams, and online training. Students may enroll in a two-week, risk-free trial course before committing to a four-year bachelor’s degree.	ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Graduation rate: N/A Students enrolled: 52,799 Student-to-faculty ratio: 18:1
3	Florida National University MIAMI, FL	Florida National University operates a traditional campus in Miami, as well as an additional campus, training center, and online learning division in Hialeah. The school’s open-door admissions policy also allows for continuous enrollment throughout the year. In addition to upholding a generous credit-transfer policy for applicants, FNU also offers several tuition incentives including scholarships for government employees and military servicemembers, as well as corporate alliance opportunities and employee reimbursement plans.	ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Graduation rate: 61% Students enrolled: 2,492 Student-to-faculty ratio: 24:1
4	Liberty University LYNCHBURG, VA	Admissions requirements for prospective Liberty University students vary depending on each applicant’s level of education and the program to which they are applying. For high school students applying to an undergraduate program, acceptance is granted based solely on high school transcripts; a letter of recommendation is required only if the student’s GPA is below 3.0. Transfer undergraduate and graduate students must supply college transcripts and/or military experience in addition to their high school transcripts as part of their Liberty application for advanced programs.	ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Graduation rate: 47% Students enrolled: 80,494 Student-to-faculty ratio: 18:1
5	Sullivan University LOUISVILLE, KY	Though admissions requirements are different on campus and vary per program, students applying to undergraduate programs at Sullivan Online need only submit proof of a high school diploma or GED, as well as indicate how they intend to pay tuition, to be considered for enrollment. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis throughout the year. Students work closely with an admissions advisor for the duration of the application process.	ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Graduation rate: 29% Students enrolled: 3,575 total; 2,684 undergraduates Student-to-faculty ratio: 13:1
6	Granite State College CONCORD, NH
7	Bryant and Stratton College BUFFALO, NY
8	Salem International University SALEM, WY
9	Grand Canyon University PHOENIX, AZ
10	Bellevue University BELLEVUE, NE
11	Rasmussen College MAITLAND, FL
12	National American University RAPID CITY, SD
13	City University of Seattle SEATTLE, WA
14	Argosy University PHOENIX, AZ
15	University of Maryland University College ADELPHI, MD
16	Strayer University HERNDON, VA
17	Kaplan University DAVENPORT, IA
18	Capella University MINNEAPOLIS, MN
19	Baker College FLINT, MI
20	Colorado Technical University COLORADO SPRINGS, CO

What Colleges Don’t Require Transcripts

If you didn’t complete high school or pass the GED, online colleges offering GED classes may still be an option. It’ll take hard work and dedication, but the effort can lead to a more exciting and better-paying job. Find out what your options are and how to get your GED along the way. Collegelearners.com has compiled a list of 50 online colleges that don’t require high school transcripts after you pass Ged classes. For the past few years these colleges have been ranked among the best by numerous sources, including Forbes, U.S. News & World Report, Money magazine, and others. A transcript is no longer needed to apply to one of these schools or even admissions for many accredited programs or universities, including some of the most prestigious names in higher education.

List of online colleges with open admission

1. Bellevue University (Bellevue, NE)

• Bellevue University

Bellevue has two programs–an on campus program and an online program–that have 100 percent acceptance rates. Prospective students must fill out an application and prove that they have a high school diploma or GED. Foreign students must supply TOEFL scores.

2. Golden Gate University (San Francisco, CA)

• Golden Gate University

Admission requirements at Golden Gate University are determined by the faculty. Students are reviewed individually and are asked to submit transcripts along with test scores and an optional personal statement. Students who have a high school GPA of at least 3.0 or a community college GPA of 2.0 are preferred, though any student can be accepted conditionally with the approval of the appropriate academic department.

3. Pikeville College (Pikeville, KY)

• Pikeville College

Applying to Pikeville is easy. All the college asks is that you submit a signed application along with your transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. A personal interview is recommended, though it is not required.

4. Weber State University (Ogden, UT)

• Weber State University

Students from nearly every state in the U.S. and 45 other countries are accepted to Weber State University each year. Every student that applies is considered for merit-based scholarships. Prior transcripts are a must and test scores may also be required.

5. Shawnee State University (Portsmouth, OH)

• Shawnee State University

Students receive unconditional acceptance at Shawnee State University if they complete an application and submit their high school transcripts. Students who do not have a high school diploma must have a GED or minimum results on the ACT or SAT.

6. West Virginia University (Parkersburg, WV)

• West Virginia University

To get into West Virginia University, students need a high school diploma or a GED. Prospective students are also asked to submit transcripts and SAT or ACT scores. Standards for West Virginia’s general program are not rigorous. However, there are some premier programs at the university, such as the College of Business and Economics, which require a minimum GPA and above-average test scores.

7. Concordia College (Selma, AL)

• Concordia College

Concordia is the only black Lutheran college in North America. To gain acceptance, students must fill out an application, pay a $10 fee and submit transcripts. International students need health insurance and evidence that they understand the English language.

8. Gratz College (Melrose Park, PA)

• Gratz College

Gratz College is the first transdenominational Jewish college in the United States. Prospective students need to fill out an application and write a personal statement to gain admission to the school’s undergraduate program.

9. University of Maryland – University College (Adelphi, MD)

• University of Maryland – University College

Applying to the undergraduate program at the University of Maryland University College is fast and easy. The school does not require transcripts or test scores from most students. However, they do ask that students have either a high school diploma or a GED.

10. City University (Seattle, WA)

• City University

Applying to the City University of Seattle is a cinch. The school only asks that you fill out an application and submit transcripts. International students must submit proof of English proficiency (if applicable.)

11. University of Texas – Brownsville (Brownsville, TX)

• University of Texas – Brownsville

Getting accepted into the University of Texas – Brownville couldn’t be any easier. Prospective students have to pass the GED test OR secure a high school diploma OR be 18 years of age OR transfer from another college OR register in the adult and continuing education program. Prospective students can also seek entry under Texas’ ‘academic fresh start’ statute.

12. Wayne State College (Wayne, NE)

• Wayne State College

Students who are interested in Wayne State College are asked to fill out an online application. WSC also asks for transcripts, ACT scores and an application fee. International students have a special application that needs to be filled out.

13. CUNY – College of Staten Island (Staten Island, NY)

• CUNY – College of Staten Island

Gaining admission to the College of Staten Island is a breeze if you have a high school diploma or a GED. Although the school does ask for SAT scores and an academic average, they do have a 100 percent acceptance rate.

14. CUNY – Medgar Evers College (Brooklyn, NY)

• CUNY – Medgar Evers College

Students who have a GED score of 2250 or a C average are accepted into the Medgar Evers College baccalaureate degree program; students who do not meet those requirements are accepted into the associate degree program. All freshmen must take a skills assessment test to ensure they are placed in the appropriate classes.

15. National University (La Jolla, CA)

• National University

Students who wish to attend the National University in La Jolla, California must submit an application and show that they have a high school diploma or GED. Prospective students who have a high school GPA beneath 2.0 are admitted on probation. Accepted students are asked to complete an evaluation to determine placement in various classes.

16. Baker College of Flint (Flint, MI)

• Baker College of Flint

Baker College has what they call a ‘right to try’ admissions policy. The school accepts anyone who has a high school diploma or a GED. Students who don’t meet either of those requirements can still be admitted based on test results. Baker also waives SAT and ACT test scores, which means applicants are not required to take either standardized test to gain admission.

17. Oklahoma Panhandle State University (Goodwell, OK)

• Oklahoma Panhandle State University

Only a few documents are required to gain entry to the Oklahoma Panhandle State University. Students must show an immunization record and be able to prove that they graduated from an accredited high school. Students who score below 19 on the science, math, reading or English areas of the ACT are required to take an entrance exam or remediate through zero-level courses.

18. Mountain State University (Beckley, WV)

• Mountain State University

Getting accepted to Mountain State University is a sure thing. The school only asks that you fill out an application and supply information about other colleges or programs you have attended. ACT or SAT scores are not required for undergraduate admission.

19. Peirce College (Philadelphia, PA)

• Peirce College

Applying to Peirce College takes approximately five minutes. Students can apply at any time and begin college courses within a month’s time. Peirce accepts anyone who has a high school diploma, a GED or a state equivalency diploma. Students who are unable to provide these documents are considered non-matriculated and may enroll for up to 15 credits.

20. Tabor College (Hillsboro, KS)

• Tabor College

Tabor College is a ‘decidedly Christian’ school with flexible admission requirements. Student must fill out an application, submit transcripts and supply ACT or SAT scores. All students are evaluated on an individual basis.

21. Wilmington University (New Castle, DE)

• Wilmington University

Wilmington University has an open admissions policy, which means they admit anyone who is interested in learning. They accept high school graduates, GED holders, home schooled students and students who have the appropriate equivalents. Standardized test scores are accepted, but they are not required for admission. Undergraduate students born after 1957 must also submit immunization records in accordance with Delaware law.

22. Morris College (Sumter, SC)

• Morris College

Morris College admits anyone who has the capacity to do college level work. The school even accepts students who do not have a high school diploma or GED. Students who want to transfer from another school should be in good academic standing.

23. Granite State College (Concord, NH)

• Granite State College

Granite State College accepts anyone who shows they have the ability and desire to do college work. Students can prove their capability with a high school diploma, a GED or successful Accuplacer assessments.

24. Utah Valley State College (Orem, UT)

• Utah Valley State College

Utah Valley State University is an Open Admissions Opportunity Enrollment University. This means the school believes everyone has the right to an education. Students who apply online are accepted within two business days. Students may be asked to submit transcripts and SAT or ACT scores prior to registration, though the school does make exceptions.

25. Boston Conservatory (Boston, MA)

• Boston Conservatory

This performing arts school has strict academic requirements compared to some of the other schools on this list. However, they do have a 100 percent acceptance rate. Students must submit required documents (application, transcripts, etc.) and two letters of recommendation to be considered for admission.

*Note: All of the schools on this list had a Fall 2007 acceptance rate of 100 percent.

It’s hard to break away from the high costs of traditional education – but it’s easy to find online colleges that don’t require transcripts. Collegelearners.com is one of the Internet’s most complete resource dedicated to helping people like you find affordable college degrees that won’t break your budget or force you to take on piles of debt. We’ve found 150+ online universities that will accept life experience credit, so you can get the training you need without paying thousands of dollars, filling out hundreds of forms, or waiting for days for documents to arrive in the mail. Our convenient search tools allow you to easily find online colleges

Everything You Need to Know about College Transcripts

College transcripts are the closest thing a student has to a permanent record. They detail your academic history, including your grades, the courses you have completed, and whether or not you graduated. They may also list additional information, such as a history of academic probation, honor code violations, or awards for your school performance. 

Your transcripts can unlock academic doors. They’re key to transferring credits from one university to another and are the best way to verify your prior academic performance. Yet many students struggle to get their transcripts and don’t know how to ensure that their previous work follows them from one institution to another. If you’ve found yourself struggling to navigate this process yourself, here’s everything you need to know about transcripts before applying to a college degree program. 

What’s in a College Transcript? 

A college transcript is a detailed record of your previous schoolwork. It includes: 

• A list of all classes you’ve taken. Depending on your school’s policies for dropping classes, it may also list classes you enrolled in but didn’t complete. 
• The scores you received for all classes. Most transcripts include a number and letter grade. 
• A list of dates attended and majors. The transcript will also list the dates during which you took certain classes. 
• Grade point average. The transcript may also list your GPA as of your last semester of enrollment, or itemize a GPA for each semester. 
• Student information. Depending on the information your school gathers, the transcript may also list your full name, date of birth, and student identification number. 
• Other institutions. The transcript may list other schools you attended, as well as transfer credits you received from those schools. 
• Official documentation. An official transcript also contains a seal, signature, or other official documentation indicating the document came from the registrar’s office.

Unofficial transcripts are free, and list the classes you’ve taken and the grades you’ve received. You usually have to pay a fee for official transcripts, which come directly from your school’s registrar. Most schools will not let you enroll without an official transcript.

How to Get a Copy of Your Transcript 

You can view an unofficial copy of your transcript by logging into your student account and printing out your history. This transcript is free. It can be helpful as you begin the application process, particularly if the school to which you apply wants a list of recent courses or needs to know your GPA before it receives your transcript. Your unofficial transcript may also help you assess whether you meet certain prerequisites for the classes you hope to take or the program in which you want to enroll. 

Most universities won’t accept an unofficial transcript. There are numerous reasons for this, including that an unofficial transcript may be incomplete. It’s also possible to forge an unofficial transcript. So at some point during the application and admission process, you’ll need to supply an official document. Each school’s rules for this vary slightly. Some only require an official transcript upon admission, while others want the transcript to be sent when you apply. 

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To get an official copy of your transcript, contact your school’s registrar. In most cases, you don’t even have to call or go in person; the registrar’s office may have an online form for requesting your transcript. You can usually pay the transcript fee online too. If the school does not offer such a form, you may need to download and print the right document, then send a check. 

The process can take several weeks, so plan ahead. If you’re working under a tight deadline, contact the school to ask about transcript processing times. In some cases, you may be able to expedite the process by paying a transcript rush fee. 

If the school you attended has closed, you can still get a copy of your transcript. Each state has its own rules for accessing these transcripts, so check with the governing body that oversees your state’s colleges. In Oklahoma, students can view a list of closed colleges on the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education website. Each school lists the process for getting a transcript. Other states, such as Illinois, maintain transcripts at the office of the State Board of Higher Education. 

Do I Need a Transcript to Apply to College

Students who attended college many years ago or who did not get good grades the first time may wonder whether they need a transcript. Some may even prefer to get a fresh start rather than transferring bad grades to a new school. 

The truth is that even if your grades aren’t great, you need a transcript. Even a single transfer credit can help expedite your graduation. Perhaps more importantly, most schools require you to submit all relevant transcripts. It may even be an honor code violation to exclude a school.  

Where to Send Your Transcripts 

In most cases, you cannot pick up a copy of your transcript and take it to your new university. Instead, you’ll need your old school to directly send transcripts to the new school. This process can take some time, especially if you’re seeking a transcript from a larger school or your transcripts are very old. So contact each school as early in the application process as possible. 

Most schools ask you to provide a specific address to which to send your transcript. Your new school’s registrar can provide this information. Contact them before completing a transcript request, because sending a transcript to the wrong office can delay the process or incur additional expenses. Contact SNU’s Registrar Services or Admissions Office for help accessing transcripts or sending grades from previous schools. 

A Simple Checklist for Getting Your College Transcripts

Applying for college can be stressful and time-consuming, especially if you previously attended several schools. You don’t have to become a transcript expert to navigate the process. Just follow this simple to-do list: 

1. Check with the admissions office of your chosen school for details about their transcript policy. 
2. Make a list of each school you have previously attended, no matter how long ago or how briefly. 
3. Complete a transcript request form with each school. You can usually fill out the form online, and you may have to pay a small fee. 
4. If the school from which you need a transcript is closed, contact the organization that oversees higher education in your state. They can tell you how to get a transcript. 
5. Follow up with the school to which you are applying to ensure they receive each transcript. 
6. After they have received your transcripts, meet with an academic advisor to discuss which classes will transfer. In some cases, you may have to fill out a form to request that your classes transfer or to appeal a denial of transfer credit. 

SNU is committed to student success from day one. We work with each incoming learner to maximize transfer credits. We also understand that college courses may not reflect your true mastery of a subject. We offer credit for prior learning, including military service, workplace certifications, and other experiences. Our prior learning assessment is a comprehensive measure of the things you’ve learned before coming to SNU. You can get up to a year’s worth of academic credit through this process.