
3300 West Camelback Road PO Box 11097, Phoenix, AZ 85017-1097, USA


Grand Canyon University holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, which is one of the recognized accrediting bodies in the United States. This accreditation ensures that the institution meets established standards for academic quality and institutional effectiveness. For prospective students, this affiliation means that credits earned at the university are more likely to be transferable to other accredited colleges and universities.
Additionally, specific programs within the university have received specialized accreditation. For example, the nursing program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), which is important for students aiming for careers in healthcare. Such programmatic accreditations reflect the university's commitment to maintaining discipline-specific standards of quality and rigor.
Maintaining accreditation requires regular review and compliance with rigorous criteria. This process provides assurance that the university continually evaluates and improves its educational offerings, resources, and student services. Prospective students should consider these accreditations as indicators of the institution's legitimacy and dedication to sustaining academic excellence.
Grand Canyon University requires applicants to have completed a high school education or possess a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Submission of secondary school records and GPA are mandatory, while students are encouraged, though not required, to provide secondary school class rank and college program information. Letters of recommendation and demonstrated competencies are also suggested to support the application.
English proficiency is assessed with a required Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score for non-native speakers. Other standardized tests beyond that are recommended but not mandatory. The institution does not operate under an open admission policy, and dual credit options are not offered. However, the university does accept both transfer credits and Advanced Placement (AP) credits, providing some flexibility for prospective students with prior academic experience.
Grand Canyon University requires prospective students to pay a nonrefundable application fee as part of the admission process. This fee is intended to cover the administrative costs associated with evaluating applications.
The university does offer application fee waivers under certain conditions. These waivers are typically available for students who demonstrate financial need or meet specific eligibility criteria set by the institution. Applicants interested in fee waivers are encouraged to inquire directly with the admissions office to understand the necessary documentation and procedures.
By providing fee waivers, Grand Canyon University aims to reduce financial barriers and support access for a wider range of applicants. However, these waivers are granted on a case-by-case basis, and it is advisable for prospective students to plan accordingly when applying.
Grand Canyon University does not have any on-campus Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) branch units. Additionally, there is no information indicating the availability of ROTC branch units at cooperating host institutions affiliated with the university. Prospective students interested in ROTC programs should consider this absence when evaluating their options for military training and officer commissioning opportunities in conjunction with their academic pursuits at Grand Canyon University.
Grand Canyon University allows transfer students to enroll in the fall, spring, and summer terms. While information regarding the winter term is not available, the other enrollment periods offer multiple opportunities for incoming transfers. The university accepts transfer credits, facilitating a smoother transition for students coming from other institutions.
Applicants can transfer credits earned through CLEP subject and general exams, as well as DANTES examinations. Additionally, credits obtained via Excelsior College exams are also accepted. This flexibility may assist students in accelerating their degree progress.
The admission process for transfers is considered moderately difficult, reflecting a balanced approach to evaluating incoming students. Recommendations are welcomed as part of the application, potentially strengthening the candidacy of prospective enrollees.
Grand Canyon University offers a range of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance students' global perspectives and academic experience. These programs include short-term faculty-led trips, semester exchanges, and international internships, providing flexibility for students across various disciplines and schedules.
Faculty-led study tours typically last from one to three weeks and focus on immersive learning experiences related to specific courses. These trips combine classroom instruction with visits to historical sites, cultural immersion, and opportunities to engage with local communities. Such programs are often available during academic breaks, allowing students to participate without disrupting their regular coursework.
Semester exchange programs enable students to spend a full term studying at a partner institution overseas. Through these exchanges, students can pursue academic requirements while gaining firsthand experience in different cultural and educational settings. Grand Canyon University maintains partnerships with numerous international universities to facilitate these exchanges, ensuring a diverse array of destinations and academic fields.
Additionally, international internships provide practical work experience abroad, aligning professional development with academic goals. These placements support students seeking to enhance their resumes while obtaining cultural competence and global networking skills.
The study abroad offerings at Grand Canyon University emphasize integration with students' academic plans, aiming to complement their degree pathways and personal growth.
High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RecommendedRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (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
NoOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/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
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer