ADVANCE: Nothing should come between you and a four-year degree.

George Mason University has partnerships with several community colleges in Virginia to help students take their education further. When you join one of our ADVANCE programs, you'll be provided with targeted, personalized support that saves you time and money as you complete your bachelor’s degree.

What are the benefits of joining the program?

Major Cost Savings 

• Completing your associate degree before transferring will save you tuition costs.

Make Every Credit Count

• Specialized, aligned curriculum ensures all credits transfer toward your program.

Dedicated Coaches

• Our coaches provide continuous support and guidance, from your enrollment at community college to your graduation from George Mason.

Advance Your Career

• Increased access to internship and co-curricular experiences prepare you for career success.

Who is eligible?

The program is available to students at select community colleges in Virginia who are in good academic standing and who meet these enrollment requirements:

• Hold a high school diploma or GED
• Minimum 2.00 cumulative grade point average for students with college credit
• Enrolled in an associate degree program at a participating community college in Virginia
• Have earned no more than 30 college credits at the time of submission of the Declaration 

The 30-credit limit does not include AP, IB, CLEP, or any other earned credit by exam. High school dual enrollment credit and credit earned at other U.S. or international colleges or universities apply to the 30-credit limit. Your community college and George Mason have different transfer credit policies. It is important to note that your community college may accept transfer credit that George Mason does not accept.

Select an ADVANCE partner to get started

Germanna https://www.gmu.edu/transfer/community-college/germanna

Piedmont Virginia https://www.gmu.edu/transfer/community-college/piedmont

Tidewater https://www.gmu.edu/transfer/community-college/tidewater

Brightpoint https://www.gmu.edu/transfer/community-college/brightpoint

Virginia Peninsula https://www.gmu.edu/transfer/community-college/vpcc

Northern Virginia https://www.gmu.edu/transfer/community-college/nova