Transfer Students

Step Into A New Academic Journey

Whether you’re transferring from a college, university, or bringing secondary school transfer credits, your academic history matters – and your admission will be assessed based on your previous grades and coursework. At McMaster, transfer students join a dynamic, inclusive learning environment that encourages critical thinking, innovative research, and community engagement across the Social Sciences.

Explore Level II programs across disciplines like sociology, political science, economics, psychology, Indigenous studies, labour studies, and more.

Browse Level II Programs

Transfer Pathways

Two clear routes – one supportive transition into Social Sciences.

College Transfer Students College Transfer Requirements

Transfer credit is assessed and awarded at the point of admission by the Faculty of Social Sciences Associate Dean (Academic), based on:

length of your college certificate or diploma
your cumulative GPA

Admission requirements (from the College Transfer Guide):

Social Sciences I – minimum 70% average; fewer than 24 units of transfer credit
Health & Society I – minimum 70% average; fewer than 24 units of transfer credit
Economics I – minimum 70% average; completion of MCV4U and MHF4U; fewer than 24 units of transfer credit

University Transfer Students University Transfer Information

Transfer credit is assessed and awarded at the time of admission by the Faculty of Social Sciences Associate Dean (Academic), based on:

courses completed with at least a C- (60%) or higher

Admission requirements:

Social Sciences I – minimum 70% average; fewer than 24 units of transfer credit
Health & Society I – minimum 70% average; fewer than 24 units of transfer credit
Economics I – minimum 70% average; completion of MCV4U and MHF4U; fewer than 24 units of transfer credit

Learn more through the Registrar’s Office.

Transfer Credits for High School Students

Certain secondary school curriculum courses – such as International Baccalaureate (IB) and Advanced Placement (AP) – may be eligible for transfer credit toward equivalent McMaster courses.

High School Transfer Credits

Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens After You’re Admitted? Connect With An Advisor

Welcome to the Faculty of Social Sciences! Your next step is to connect with an Academic Advisor, who can help you plan your courses and map out your transition to McMaster.

Do I Need To Apply For Transfer Credit?

No – transfer credit is assessed automatically when you apply for admission. If you receive an offer, you’ll also get a separate letter outlining the credits you’ve been granted.

How Do I Enroll In Classes? Visit The Registrar's Office

Before you start choosing courses, it’s a good idea to connect with an Academic Advisor to make sure your plan aligns with your program and transfer credits.

You can also find step-by-step enrolment support on the Registrar’s Office website.

What If A Mandatory Course Is Full?

If a required course is closed, reach out to the department that offers it and ask about permission to enroll. If they approve, they’ll update Mosaic so you can add the course yourself.

If permission isn’t available, keep checking Mosaic – seats may open as students adjust their schedules.

What Prerequisite Courses Do I Need? Explore The Undergraduate Calendar

All prerequisite and antirequisite information is listed in the Undergraduate Calendar.

Check the course descriptions in the most recent Course Listings to see what you need before enrolling.

When Do I Choose My Major?

If you’re admitted to Social Sciences I or Social Sciences 2, you’ll choose your major once you’ve completed enough units:

18 units (6 courses) to enter a 3-year BA program
24 units (9 courses) to enter a 4-year Honours BA program

Major applications open in April, so you can select your program at that time.

How Do I Get Academic Accommodations? Register For SAS

Student Accessibility Services (SAS) supports students with documented disabilities by providing academic accommodations and related services.

Visit the SAS website to learn how to register and access the support you need.

How Do I Apply For Scholarships & Bursaries? Visit McMaster Aid & Awards

You can explore and apply for scholarships and bursaries through the McMaster Aid & Awards website, where you’ll find details on eligibility, deadlines, and available funding.