Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies Admission Requirements

Students apply to the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (BIS) program and to the University through the School of Continuing and Professional Studies. Standardized exams, such as the SAT, are not required. There is no foreign language requirement. 

Please note: Individuals who have already earned a baccalaureate degree are not eligible to apply for admission to BIS. 

 

Admission Requirements

Please note that the admissions requirements for the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies changed effective Nov. 2, 2023.

Students are eligible to apply who have attained:

  • A high school diploma, or equivalent
  • 36 Transferable Credit Hours: A minimum of 36 transferable credits (C or better), to include:
    • English composition (your college’s full sequence)
    • At least 12 transferable credits applicable toward the general education requirements for the BIS degree.
  • 2.0 GPA: A minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 from the institution attended most recently and good academic and social standing at that institution
  • Academic, Social & Financial Standing at UVA: We are happy to review records of those who have previously enrolled at UVA to determine eligibility and applicability of any prior UVA credits toward SCPS degree requirements. 

Additional Information:

  • Prerequisites for the business and psychology concentrations may be completed within the BIS curriculum as degree electives after admission; however, the prerequisites should be satisfied before students enroll in required concentration courses.   
  • A maximum of 60 transferable credits from outside institutions and test credits may be applied toward the BIS degree. Student who have previously attended UVA may be able to apply prior UVA credits toward BIS degree requirements and should submit a pre-admission advising form to understand the applicability of those prior credits. 

 

Guaranteed Admission Agreements

Guaranteed Admission Agreement (GAA) with Virginia Community College System

Under a Guaranteed Admission Agreement (GAA) with the Virginia Community College System (VCCS), applicants who have completed 60 transferable credits and an Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, or Associate of Arts & Sciences degree from a VCCS college, with 45 or more credits earned from VCCS, and have earned a GPA in VCCS coursework of 3.5 or better, will be eligible for consideration under guaranteed admission. Those applying under the GAA must submit a Letter of Intent and official transcripts to SCPS Admission Services by February 15. A completed online application for admission must be submitted by May 15.

Guaranteed Admission Agreement (GAA) with Richard Bland College of William and Mary

Under a Guaranteed Admission Agreement (GAA) with Richard Bland College (RBC), applicants who have completed 60 transferable credits and an Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, or Associate of Arts & Sciences degree from RBC, with 45 or more credits earned from RBC, and have earned a GPA in RBC coursework of 3.5 or better, will be eligible for consideration under guaranteed admission. Those applying under the GAA must submit a Letter of Intent and official transcripts to Admission Services by February 15. A completed online application for admission must be submitted by May 15.

Blue Background
Off

Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (BIS) Application Checklist

Are you looking to finish your undergraduate degree online? UVA’s Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (BIS) offers flexible course and scheduling options to make the program work for you. Rooted in the UVA liberal arts tradition, BIS offers an interdisciplinary education that prepares students to advance in their current jobs, transition to new careers, or pursue graduate studies.

Blue Background
Off
Before Applying
Application Process
  • Schedule an application walkthrough to go over requirements, best practices, and your timeline to submission
  • Gather the following materials and apply at https://apply.scps.virginia.edu/apply/
    • One Essay: Approximately 500 words
    • Unofficial Transcripts: Upload with your application; or send to [email protected], or submit them through the pre-admissions form
    • Standardized Test Scores: TOEFL, IELTS, AP or IB scores (if applicable)
    • Application for VA In-State Education Privileges: To determine residency (SCPS tuition is geographically neutral)
    • Letter of Recommendation: Ideally, a person who knows you in an academic capacity (professor, advisor) and can comment on the strengths and skills that will help you be a successful student. A work supervisor is also acceptable. Please, no friends or relatives.
  • Apply for financial aid
    • The financial aid deadline is the same as the application deadline. 
Next Steps for Admitted Students
  • Submit the Reply to Offer of Admission form in the application status portal
  • Submit official final transcripts to [email protected]
  • Your faculty advisor will invite you to schedule an advising session to:
    • Map out a degree plan, discuss your first-term courses and explain the registration process
    • Answer any outstanding questions
  • Make sure you have internet service that can handle video calls and a designated study space
    • Activate your UVA email, which is the primary way SCPS will communicate with you as a student
    • RSVP to orientation and take the onboarding course to learn what resources are available to you
  • Get ready for the first day of classes!

 

For questions about the application or admissions please contact the UVA School of Continuing and Professional Studies Team. You can reach us at 1.800.346.3882 or [email protected].

Start your journey toward finishing your degree online at UVA today!

Blue Background
Off

* The information contained on this website is for informational purposes only. The Undergraduate Record and Graduate Record represent the official repository for academic program requirements.

Blue Background
Off