What documents do most liberal arts programs require?

Official transcripts are commonly required. Associate programs may ask for high school transcripts, while bachelor's and master's programs typically require transcripts from all previously attended institutions.

Do admissions requirements change by degree level?

Yes. Associate programs are often more flexible, bachelor's programs typically require prior academic history, and master's programs require a completed bachelor's degree plus additional materials.

Are standardized tests required for liberal arts programs?

Requirements vary by school. Some programs require tests, but many offer test-optional admissions.

Can transfer credits affect admissions?

Yes. A transfer credit evaluation can influence placement, remaining coursework, and sometimes admission eligibility.

Liberal Arts Program Admissions Requirements

Updated February 22, 2026 Table of Contents

Admissions requirements for liberal arts programs vary by degree level and institution. Reviewing requirements early helps you avoid delays, understand documentation needs, and compare programs realistically.

This page outlines common admissions criteria for associate, bachelor’s, and master’s level liberal arts programs.

Quick answers

What documents do most liberal arts programs require? Official transcripts are commonly required. Associate programs may ask for high school transcripts, while bachelor’s and master’s programs typically require transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
Do admissions requirements change by degree level? Yes. Associate programs are often more flexible. Bachelor’s programs typically require prior academic history, and master’s programs require a completed bachelor’s degree plus additional materials.
Are standardized tests required for liberal arts programs? Requirements vary by school. Some programs require tests, but many offer test-optional admissions; verify whether scores are required, optional, or waived.
Can transfer credits affect admissions? Yes. A transfer credit evaluation can influence placement, remaining coursework, and sometimes admission eligibility. Policies vary by school.
Is provisional admission possible? Some programs may allow provisional admission while placement or prerequisite requirements are completed.

At a Glance

Degree levels: Associate, bachelor’s, and master’s
Common materials: Official transcripts from all institutions attended
GPA requirements: Vary by school and degree level
Graduate extras: Resume, personal statement, letters of recommendation
Test policy: Many programs are test-optional

Admissions requirements by degree level

Requirement	Associate	Bachelor’s	Master’s
High school diploma/GED	Required	Required	N/A
Official transcripts	High school	All institutions	All institutions
Minimum GPA	Varies	Varies (often 2.0+)	Varies (often 3.0+)
Standardized tests	Rarely	Sometimes (often optional)	Rarely
Personal statement	Rarely	Sometimes	Usually
Letters of recommendation	Rarely	Sometimes	Usually
Resume/CV	Rarely	Rarely	Usually
Transfer credit evaluation	If applicable	If applicable	N/A

For a full overview of program options, start with the Liberal Arts Program Guide.

Associate degree admissions requirements

Associate level liberal arts programs often have the most accessible admissions standards.

Common requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Official high school transcripts
Placement assessments for math or writing, when applicable
Application form and basic personal information

Some programs may allow provisional admission while placement or prerequisite requirements are completed.

To compare timelines and formats, see Associate Liberal Arts Programs.

Bachelor’s degree admissions requirements

Bachelor’s level programs typically require prior academic history and more formal evaluation.

Common requirements

High school diploma or equivalent, or prior college coursework
Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions
Minimum GPA guidelines, which vary by school
Transfer credit evaluation, if applicable

Applicants with prior college credit may be admitted as transfer students, which can reduce remaining coursework.

Master’s degree admissions requirements

Master’s level liberal arts programs usually have the most structured admissions process.

Common requirements

A completed bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Official college transcripts
Minimum GPA guidelines, when required
Resume, statement of purpose, or letters of recommendation
Prerequisite coursework for some specialized programs

Many liberal arts master’s programs (MLS, ALM, MALS) accept applicants from any undergraduate major. Unlike discipline-specific graduate programs, they value breadth and intellectual curiosity over specific prerequisite courses.

To compare options, see Master’s Liberal Arts Programs.

Transfer credits and placement

Transfer credit evaluations can affect admissions and placement into degree requirements.

When comparing programs, check:

Maximum transfer credits allowed
Minimum grades required for transfer courses
Whether credits apply to the major core or only electives
Residency requirements for completing a degree

For planning guidance, see:

Back to Online Liberal Arts Degree Guide

Return to Online Liberal Arts Degree Guide