Transform Your Future

Bear Bound


Expanding access and lowering costs for community college transfer students seeking a four-year degree.

The Bear Bound program provides community college students with a seamless and affordable pathway to a four-year degree. The program enhances student pathways and removes the obstacles transfer students often face when seeking a bachelor’s degree.

And, with a combination of merit and need-based financial aid, a Lenoir-Rhyne education is now more affordable than ever.  

Community college students with at least a minimum 3.5 GPA can qualify for the Lenoir-Rhyne Promise, which reduces tuition for eligible students by half the yearly amount before other financial aid is applied.

Co-Admission


Apply today! Be a part of Lenoir-Rhyne while still enrolled at your community college. Co-Admission students receive a LR student ID card, allowing you to engage with our student body and campus experience before transferring.

Apply for Co-Admission

Undergraduate Transfer Application
Ready to transfer now and become an LR bear? Submit your application for admission and receive an admission decision within two weeks.

Apply for Transfer Admission

Rachel Ramsey

I decided to transfer to LR because of the amazing nursing program. My advice to anyone looking to come to LR is to get to know your professors – they genuinely care about you and your education.

Rachel Ramsey '22, Nursing

Program Overview


  • Co-Admission
    LR's Co-Admission program provides students the opportunity to engage with Lenoir-Rhyne early, while still earning an associate's degree, and receive direct admission to Lenoir-Rhyne.  
  • Transparent and seamless transfer of general education credits
    LR now accepts general education core requirements completed at community colleges. This means you will not have to take additional general education courses to satisfy LR’s requirements.
  • Financial aid packaging (merit and need-based aid)
    Community college transfer students eligible for the Lenoir-Rhyne Promise will see their tuition reduced by $15,000 before other financial aid is applied.
  • Expedited pathways for professional programs
    LR is dedicated to working with each institution to develop a clear roadmap for students pursuing these programs. For example, a high school graduate who completes an associate degree from a community college may apply for direct entry into all LR programs (upon meeting admissions requirements like auditions or background checks). This includes programs such as nursing, education, computer science, exercise science and business.
  • Campus housing for community college students
    LR now offers on-campus housing for students enrolled at local community colleges, hosting between 10 and 12 such students per semester over the previous two years.

Go Beyond What’s Expected


We don’t just offer a world-class education—we create a community of passionate learners to lift you up and inspire you to become your best self.

Students working in lab with test tubes
Student working on canvas in art class
96%
Employed or in Grad School within six months
Two students laughing while studying in hammocks on lawn
$30M
Provided in student financial aid each year
Students talking at table in coffee shop
Two students talking in fitness center
Professor talking to students from front of classroom
LR president with community college presidents

In cooperation with 14 community colleges, LR will open access to a four-year degree with seamless transfer procedures and added affordability.

View More
Students arrive in PE Monroe auditorium for the Student Life Awards

The revamped 2024 Student Life Awards gave students "A Night to Remember" with recognition and celebration of the joys of being a Bear.

View More