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Admission & Aid

Apply free.
Known by name.

No application fee. Test-optional. Financial aid to meet your needs. Every application is read by hand — because you're a person, not a score. No algorithm reads your file.

How to apply

Guilford reviews every application holistically — a person reads your file, and we'll get back to you quickly. We're test-optional, so you decide whether to send scores.

First-year students

  • Complete the Common Application or the Guilford Application — no fee, ever.
  • Submit an official high school transcript.
  • A letter of recommendation, if you'd like to include one — it's optional.
  • Test scores optional — send them only if they strengthen your story.

Transfer students

Transferring in? Send transcripts from every college attended; we'll evaluate transfer credit before you commit, so you know exactly where you stand.

International students

We welcome students from dozens of countries. Submit proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo) and we'll guide you through I-20 and visa steps with a dedicated international counselor.

Veterans & military

Guilford is a proud Yellow Ribbon school. Our veterans counselor helps you maximize your benefits and transfer eligible service credit.

Financial aid & the Guilford Commitment

An education that's within reach.

Nearly every Guilford student receives financial aid. Through the Guilford Commitment, qualifying lower-income North Carolina families pay no tuition out of pocket. We'll build your aid package the moment you're admitted.

Estimate Your Aid How to Apply for Aid
Nearly allstudents receive aid
No tuitionfor qualifying NC families
Generousmerit scholarships
Globalstudents from around the world

Common questions

Is Guilford really test-optional?

Yes. You choose whether to submit SAT/ACT scores. Not submitting will never count against you.

When should I apply?

Applying early gives you the best access to aid and housing.

Can I afford Guilford?

Almost certainly. Nearly every student gets aid, and most pay far less than the sticker price. Use our net price calculator.

How does transfer credit work?

We evaluate credit before you enroll and accept up to 90 transfer hours. Your counselor maps it course by course.

Concept G · Admission & Aid