Frequently Asked Questions: Bible Colleges
The following FAQs related to the Bridge Initiative for Bible colleges.
General
+ Is Indiana Wesleyan accredited?
Indiana Wesleyan University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. More Information >>
Enrollment
+ What are the admission requirements for an associate and bachelor’s student?
Students entering a bachelor’s degree must provide (a) proof of an earned high school diploma or GED equivalent; (b) transcripts from all previous regionally accredited colleges or universities, institutions accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher education, or recognized nationally accredited institutions; and (c) 60 transferrable credit hours from these prior institutions. Options are available to earn credit through an evaluation of prior experience. IWU is homeschooler friendly and will work with parents and students to document completion of the high school requirement.
+ Am I required to submit prior college transcripts?
Yes, a copy of transcripts from any previous college experience should be submitted to IWU. Doing so will allow the university to transfer as much credit as possible.
+ Am I required to submit official transcripts?
Yes, all transcripts must be official copies, either print or digital. Print transcripts generally deliver via a sealed and embossed enveloped. Digitial transcripts use new technology to demonstrate authenticity.
+ What is the anticipated timeline for admission into the university?
Student admission will depend initially on the student submitting the proper documentation. Upon receipt of all documentation, the student file will be review for admission, prior academic credits will be evaluated and added to the transcript, and the student will be admitted to the university. This process generally occurs within seven (7) days of all documents being submitted to the university. Weekends and holidays may lengthen this timeline.
+ When can I start courses?
IWU offers the Bridge Initiative through a four-term structure. This allows us to start students approximately every 12 weeks, including new starts in August, November, March, and June.
Academics
+ What degree programs are available through the Bridge Initiative?
The Bridge Initiative provides students access to all bachelor degree programs offered online through IWU, with the exception of nursing and health science degrees. Specific Bible colleges, however, may limit the degree opportunities for their students.
+ I earned credit at a prior institution. Will those credit transfer into IWU?
IWU has flexible transfer policies to support students who have prior academic experience. For a list of transfer policies, see the university catalog.
+ Will credits earned from IWU transfer to another college?
IWU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, one of the six regional accreditors in the U.S. This accreditor is the same as Perdue University or other major universities in the Midwest. Given this accreditation, many institutions will award credit for prior work earned at IWU. Each institution, however, reserves the right to decide if credits will be accepted into a degree program. Students interested in pursing this option should consult with the other institution.
+ When will I receive credit for prior college coursework?
During the admission process, the student will submit all required documentation, including transcripts from prior college experience. Upon receipt, the Student Services Office will evaluate all coursework from prior college experience within the admission timeline outlined above. Delays may occur for students who submit documents close to the start of courses. Transcript evaluation is an important process to determine the best schedule for students, which should account for prior academic coursework; thus, it is important for students to submit the information in a timely manner.
Financial
+ How many credits can I earn?
IWU offers a predictable per credit tuition that reduces surprises for students. For the tuition, student may enroll in up to 30 credit hour annually. Your home institution may have specific policies on earning credit through IWU.
+ What does the tuition not cover?
The tuition does not cover the cost of any textbooks, computers, travel, or educational supplies.
Financial Aid
+ Are students eligible for scholarships listed on the indwes.edu website?
Students enolled through the Bridge Initiative are not eligible for institutional scholarships listed on the website. The program tuition already includes significant discouting.
Student Services
+ What is the process for students to receive and pay for textbooks?
Students enrolled through their Bible college will collect textbooks directly from the publisher or distributor. Student will not receive textbooks through Indiana Wesleyan University or its relationship with Tree of Life. Speak with your home institution about access to federal financial aid to pay for textbooks.
+ What student services are available for Bible college partnership students?
All standard student services will be available to students, including but not limited to the following: advising/registration, library services, tutoring, online chaplain, career development, and prior learning assessment. Academic advising and registration services will be provided by the Student Services team. Library services are provided online. Tutoring is available through SmartThinking, which is an online service that is accessible directly through each Brightspace course. The online chaplain service is provided through SpiritCare team. Career development, including resume reviews and standard resources, are available through the student services office. Last, prior learning assessment is provided through the student services office.
