For a complete list of Graduate Admissions Policies, download the Catalog (p. 184-189).

Transfer Students

Students may transfer in graduate courses upon the approval of the Program Director.The maximum number of transferable credit hours is 9. Credit allowance for graduate courses is considered on an individual basis, however student must have earned a B or higher for the course to be considered. Course syllabi, college catalog, and a sample of previous course work may be requested for consideration of a class.

International Students

Mount Mercy welcomes international students to our campus, recognizing that they enrich the educational experience for all students by contributing to the intellectual, social and cultural diversity of the College community. The following additional items are required for admission for international students.

• Official or true certified copies of the applicant’s post-secondary academic record (transcripts, examination scores, mark sheets, etc.) evaluated by a Foreign Credential Evaluation Agency.
• Official or true certified copies of the applicant’s diploma or degree certificate in both English and the original language. 
• Documentation of English language proficiency for all non-native speakers of English. Mount Mercy accepts only the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A minimum score of 550 on the paper-based version (scores between 500-550 may be accepted upon an interview with the Program Director)  or 79 on the internet version (iBT) or 213 on computer based total is required for consideration for admission. Proof of comprehension and conversational proficiency as indicated by a 23 or higher on the TOEFL speaking sub-section and interview the Program Director (phone interview can be substituted). 
• Students who are applying for an F-1 visa must also provide a Certificate of Finance form or Letter with Affidavit from the Bank stating that they have sufficient funds to studey in the U.S.

Special Student or Non-degree Status

A student with a baccalaureate degree who wishes to earn graduate credit, but not a graduate degree, may be accepted for admission to study as a graduate student with special status. Credits earned as a graduate student with special status with a grade of “B” or above may be applied to a graduate degree at Mount Mercy, upon admission to the program and with the approval of both the Director of Graduate Studies and the Program Director. Special student status students are not eligible for financial aid.

Contact Us

For more information, contact: Graduate Programs Admissions Office 319.363.8213, ext. 1864 or email the Admissions Coordinator Jan Schulze.