
1530 Concordia West, Irvine, CA 92612-3299, USA


Concordia University-Irvine holds regional accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), a widely recognized accrediting agency ensuring the university meets established standards of excellence in higher education. This accreditation signifies that the institution adheres to rigorous criteria regarding academic quality, governance, and student support services.
In addition to institutional accreditation, select programs at Concordia University-Irvine have received specialized accreditations relevant to their fields. For example, education programs are accredited by appropriate professional bodies, which is essential for students seeking state licensure and careers in teaching. This layered accreditation approach helps affirm the university's commitment to maintaining high standards in both general and professional education.
Prospective students should note that attending a regionally accredited university like Concordia University-Irvine typically ensures that credits are transferable to other accredited institutions and that degrees are recognized by employers and graduate schools nationwide. The combination of regional and programmatic accreditations enhances the value and credibility of the academic credentials earned there.
Concordia University-Irvine requires applicants to have completed high school or possess a General Educational Development (GED) credential. Submission of secondary school records and a minimum GPA are necessary components of the application. While there is no open admission policy and dual credit is not accepted, the university does grant credit for Advanced Placement (AP) exams.
Standardized admission test scores are recommended but not mandatory, with the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) specifically required for non-native English speakers. Other test scores may also be recommended, although no strict requirements are imposed. Computer ownership or leasing is not required for the application process.
The average admitted student presents a composite SAT score around 1145, reflecting a middle-level performance in math and writing sections, and a mean ACT score near 25, which ranks roughly in the mid-range nationally. Acceptance to Concordia University-Irvine is moderately selective with an acceptance rate close to 60%, indicating a competitive but accessible admissions landscape.
Concordia University-Irvine requires prospective students to pay a nonrefundable application fee when submitting their application. This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with processing and reviewing applications. The amount of the application fee is a standard part of the admission process and must be paid for an application to be considered complete.
However, the university recognizes that application fees can pose a financial barrier for some applicants. To assist those who may find the fee burdensome, Concordia University-Irvine offers fee waivers under certain conditions. These waivers are typically granted to students who demonstrate financial need or who meet specific eligibility criteria set by the admissions office.
Applicants interested in obtaining a waiver are encouraged to contact the admissions office directly to inquire about the process and requirements. Documentation or proof of eligibility may be required to support a fee waiver request. This provision reflects the university's effort to make admission more accessible to a diverse population of students by reducing financial obstacles.
Concordia University-Irvine does not have an ROTC branch unit on its campus, nor does it serve as a cooperating host institution for ROTC programs. Prospective students interested in ROTC opportunities will need to consider alternative arrangements or nearby institutions that offer such programs.
Concordia University-Irvine welcomes transfer students, particularly for the fall term. The institution demonstrates flexibility by accepting credits from various examination programs, including CLEP General, CLEP Subject, and DANTES. Prospective transfer students should note that the university has a minimally difficult entrance requirement, making the application process relatively accessible.
Additionally, the university considers recommendations as part of the transfer admission process, which can aid applicants in strengthening their submissions. Credits earned from other institutions are generally accepted, facilitating a smoother transition for students looking to continue their education without losing progress.
Concordia University-Irvine offers several study abroad opportunities designed to enrich students' academic and cultural experiences. These programs are structured to accommodate a variety of academic interests and are integrated with the university's degree requirements, enabling students to earn credits while studying in international settings.
Students can participate in faculty-led trips, which typically include short-term travel during academic breaks. These trips focus on specific disciplines and provide hands-on learning experiences combined with cultural immersion.
Additionally, Concordia University-Irvine supports exchange programs and partnerships with select universities abroad, allowing students to spend a semester or more studying at a foreign institution. This option offers a more in-depth exposure to different educational systems and global perspectives.
The university encourages students to engage in global learning by incorporating study abroad as a key component of their undergraduate education, aiming to broaden their worldview and prepare them for diverse professional environments.
Median composite SAT score
1145Median composite ACT score
25High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
Data not availableAdmission test scores
RecommendedTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
Data not availableOff-campus study
Data not availableROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
Data not availableWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
EasyGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall