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Being the first in your family to attend college is a big accomplishment. At Concordia University Irvine, we recognize both the excitement and the challenges that come with being first-gen. But you don’t have to figure it out on your own — our campus community is here to support you.

First-gen students bring unique perspectives, resilience, and strengths that enrich life at Concordia. Whether it’s navigating financial aid, choosing classes, or finding a sense of belonging, we provide guidance and encouragement along the way.

Community Connections

Build friendships with other first-gen students and connect with mentors who have walked a similar path.

Academic and Career Guidance

Access resources like tutoring, advising, and career exploration to help you thrive in your studies and prepare for the future.

Family Involvement

We know your success matters to your family, too. Explore Parent Resources to see how they can stay connected and supported.

Transferring as a First-Generation Student

If you’re a first-generation student transferring from a California community college or another four-year institution, Concordia University Irvine is here to help you take your next step with clarity and confidence.

We know that understanding transfer credits, general education requirements, and degree pathways can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re navigating college for the first time in your family. That’s why Concordia offers transfer-friendly pathways and personalized academic advising to help you stay on track and make the most of the work you’ve already completed.

Our articulation agreements with California community colleges help ensure your coursework applies directly toward your degree and supports timely graduation.

Transfer Students

Transfer Credit That Works for You

In most cases, you do not need to complete Concordia’s General Education requirements before transferring. Concordia commonly accepts transfer credit from:

Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Science (AS) degrees
Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) programs
CSU General Education Breadth
IGETC (Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum)
Direct Transfer Associate (DTA) degrees from Oregon and Washington

A Clear Pathway for ADT Students

First-generation students transferring with an Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) may be eligible for a defined transfer pathway that supports:

Admission to Concordia University Irvine
Junior standing with at least 60 transferable semester units
Academic major preparation
Steady progress toward degree completion

“I am a first-generation student and first-generation born here in the U.S. Both my parents were born in Mexico. I wanted to continue my education. At Concordia, it was the first time I had my own room. I acclimated really well, and made a great group of friends.”

Diego Perez ’17

“I loved the school. It was different from all the other ambiences I’ve been in. It gave me a sense of peace and purpose. Irvine has high opportunity, a lot of great companies and chances to connect with good people. It’s been amazing here.”

Diego Del Risco Orbegoso ’20

“I considered a lot of schools and connected with someone at Concordia. They were so nice and easy to talk to and answered all my questions right away. When I went to visit the campus I said, ‘I think this is the place for me.’”

Henry Alonzo, MBA ’09

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