Community College & Transfer
CCP is a powerful, affordable launchpad
Community College of Philadelphia is one of the most underrated options available to Philadelphia students. Open enrollment, very affordable, and with direct transfer pathways to major universities — CCP lets you earn a degree or transfer to a 4-year school at a fraction of the cost.
Practical next steps
Apply online — it's free and easy
Go to ccp.edu and click Apply. Free for Philadelphia residents. No SAT or ACT needed. Apply any time of year.
Take the placement assessments
CCP uses placement tests to determine which math and English courses you start in. Brush up on algebra first.
Meet with an academic advisor in week one
This is the most important thing you can do. An advisor will map out your pathway — whether that's transferring, earning a certificate, or a career program.
Declare a transfer-focused major and follow the pathway
CCP has formal transfer agreements with Temple, Penn State, Drexel, and Lincoln University. Credits transfer cleanly and you enter as a junior with a 2.5+ GPA.
Aim for a 3.0+ GPA
Most competitive transfer programs want a 3.0 or higher. Your high school grades matter far less once you're succeeding in college.
Look into reduced-cost programs
Philadelphia residents may qualify for reduced or free tuition through the Philly Scholarship and other programs. Ask the financial aid office.
Apply for transfer scholarships
Many 4-year universities have dedicated scholarships for community college transfer students. Search for these in your final year at CCP.
Resource starting points
- Apply to CCP Online
Free application for Philadelphia residents.
- CCP Transfer Center
Resources and advising for students planning to transfer.
Organizations featured in this guide
- Community College of Philadelphia
Open-enrollment, tuition-affordable college with transfer pathways to 4-year universities across PA.
- Philadelphia Education Fund
Transfer scholarships and support specifically for students moving from CCP to 4-year universities.
- Philadelphia Futures
Advising and scholarship support for students at every stage of the college journey.
Helpful things to know
CCP grads transfer to top schools every year
Students from CCP regularly transfer to Temple, Drexel, Penn State, Villanova, and Ivy League schools.
Philly Scholarship may cover full tuition
Ask specifically about the Philadelphia Scholarship program when you apply.
Common questions
Can I transfer from CCP to a top university?
Yes. CCP has formal agreements with Temple, Penn State, Drexel, and Lincoln University. Students with strong GPAs move on to excellent schools regularly.