Transfer Students
PHSU offers tailored pathways for transferring credits and advancing your academic career. Ponce Health Sciences University (PHSU) welcomes transfer students seeking to continue their educational journey in a dynamic, supportive, and academically rigorous environment. The maximum number of total credits that may be recognized shall not be more than 30 percent of the total number of credits in the curriculum, to complete the graduation requirements, except for the Medical Education Program. A formal/written request for the transfer of credits must be filled out at the Admissions Office and Office of Students Affairs. Requests for transfer of credits must be made no later than the second week of classes of the first semester/trimester/quarter/for entering students at PHSU.
Why Transfer to PHSU?
Join a community dedicated to producing healthcare leaders through cutting-edge programs and research opportunities.
Access unique training opportunities across Puerto Rico, the United States, and the British Virgin Islands.
Benefit from robust resources, including academic advising, financial aid guidance, and student wellness programs.
Study in culturally rich and bilingual environments that prepare you to serve diverse communities.
Eligibility for Transfer
PHSU accepts transfer applications for graduate and undergraduate programs based on academic qualifications and alignment with program requirements.
General Transfer Requirements
- Students must have completed coursework at an institution accredited by a recognized accrediting agency or the Puerto Rico Board of Postsecondary Institutions.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 is typically required, though program-specific requirements may vary.
- Only courses with a grade of “B” or higher are eligible for transfer.
How to Apply as a Transfer Student
1. Submit a Transfer Application
Complete and submit your application through the PHSU Admissions Portal.
2. Provide Official Transcripts
Request that all institutions previously attended send official transcripts directly to the PHSU Admissions Office.
3. Course Descriptions and Syllabi
Submit detailed course descriptions or syllabi to facilitate the evaluation process.
4. Additional Documents
Depending on your program, additional documentation, such as letters of recommendation or a personal statement, may be required.
Doctor of Medicine Program Transfer Credit Policy
For the medical education (M.D.) program, PHSU accepts transfer students for the second pre-clerkship (MS2) or first clerkship (MS3) year only from LCME-accredited schools. The following requirements also apply:
- Transfer applicants must have a minimum undergraduate overall GPA of 2.70, and the student must have taken the MCAT.
- Candidates for transfer into the third year must have passed USMLE Step 1 on the first attempt.
Additionally, PHSU will not consider for admission any of the following:
- Applicants for the fourth year of medical studies.
- Applicants with a medical doctor (MD) degree.
- Applicants who have been dismissed due to academic or disciplinary reasons.
- Transfers from osteopathic, veterinary, dental, or international medical schools (effective Spring 2022)