Admissions Policy | Lionel University

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Application and Enrollment

Admissions Requirements

Lionel’s admissions policy is oriented to adult learners, including members of the military, who have previously completed high school or undergraduate courses, military training, or earned credit by examination.

For admission into an academic program, students must submit evidence of the minimum required education based on program requirements, along with a government-issued photo ID. Graduate degree-seeking students must also submit an essay with their application. This institution does not accept ability-to-benefit students.

Lionel University does not discriminate against and provides equal opportunity to all qualified persons, without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other category protected by local, state, or federal laws.

APPLICATION & ENROLLMENT

Admissions & Enrollment Process

Review the application and enrollment requirements for U.S. residents, international students, non-degree seeking students, and U.S. military students.

U.S. Residents +

Step 1

Apply Online

Undergraduate students: Prospective undergraduate students complete an online application available through lionel.edu. Applicants indicate whether they will pursue a certificate or degree and report aid sources, transcripts, and their desired start date.

A copy of a government-issued photo ID must be submitted. Students will also self-certify their graduation from high school or the equivalent.

Graduate students: Prospective graduate students complete an online application available through lionel.edu and report aid sources, transcripts, and their desired start date. An essay is required, along with an official transcript showing completion of a bachelor's degree and a copy of a government-issued photo ID.

Step 2

Admissions Process

The Lionel University Admissions Team reviews each applicant's expressed goals and assists with the submission of required documentation, including official transcripts. Once a prospective student is admitted into a program, they will be notified of acceptance via email.

Step 3

Transfer Credit Evaluation

Transfer credit is welcome and encouraged. Students who have completed previous coursework or served in the military are invited to send official college and military transcripts to the Office of the Registrar for evaluation.

Step 4

Getting Started

Once program confirmation is complete and all required documents are submitted, the Office of the Registrar will register the student for their first course or courses according to Lionel University's prescribed scheduling. Upon registration, the student will be prompted to review and sign their enrollment agreement for the term.

International Students +

Step 1

Apply Online

Undergraduate students: Prospective undergraduate students complete an online undergraduate program application available through lionel.edu. Applicants indicate whether they will pursue a certificate, associate degree, or bachelor's degree.

A copy of a government-issued photo ID must be submitted, and students will self-certify their graduation from high school or the equivalent.

Graduate students: Prospective graduate students complete an online graduate program application through lionel.edu. An essay is required as part of the application. Students must also submit an official transcript showing completion of a bachelor's degree and a copy of a government-issued photo ID.

Step 2

Submit Academic Documentation

Prospective students must send official copies of transcripts from secondary schools, colleges, and universities to Lionel University.

Transcripts in languages other than English must be accompanied by a certified translation.

Transcripts for comparable Lionel University undergraduate courses completed outside the United States must be evaluated by an outside credential evaluation company before being submitted to the University. Members of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) are acceptable sources for foreign credential evaluation and translation services.

Visit NACES.org →

Step 3

Submit Evidence of English Proficiency

All instruction is in English. Lionel University does not provide English language services. International applicants whose native language is not English must submit evidence of English proficiency through one of the following:

TOEFL: Minimum 500 PBT or 61 iBT

IELTS Academic: Minimum 6.0

Duolingo English Test: Minimum 95

Pearson Test of English Academic: Minimum 44

4-Skill Michigan English Test (MET): Minimum 53

Michigan ECCE: Minimum 650/LP

Michigan ECPE: Minimum 650/LP

International students who have completed an undergraduate degree at an accredited U.S. institution do not need to submit additional evidence of English proficiency.

Please Note: Lionel University's school code for the TOEFL examination is 9518. For IELTS, search for Lionel University.

Lionel University programs are 100% distance education with no residency requirements. No visa services are offered, and the institution cannot verify student residency status.

Non-Degree Seeking Students +

Lionel University welcomes individuals who are not seeking a degree but wish to continue their education for college credit. Non-degree seeking students may take coursework for personal enrichment, job enhancement, or certification.

Non-degree seeking students may enroll in individual courses or into a certificate program.

Non-degree seeking students must formally apply through one of the previously described application methods in order to register for undergraduate coursework.

U.S. Military Students +

Recruiting, Marketing & Advertising Policy +

Lionel University keeps the educational interests of prospective students and the University at the forefront of admissions and recruitment practices. The University provides accurate information to assist prospective students in making informed application and enrollment decisions, including information regarding admissions, costs, and whether the University is a good fit.

1. Lionel University bans inducements, including gratuities, favors, discounts, entertainment, hospitality, loans, transportation, lodging, meals, or other items having more than a de minimis monetary value for the purpose of securing enrollments or obtaining access to federal funds.

2. Lionel University refrains from providing commissions, bonuses, or other incentive payments based directly or indirectly on securing enrollments or federal financial aid, including Department of Defense Tuition Assistance funds.

3. Lionel University refrains from high-pressure recruitment tactics, including three or more unsolicited contacts by phone, email, or in person, and same-day recruitment and registration for the purpose of securing enrollment.

Military Tuition Assistance +

Eligible Service members are directed to speak with their Educational Services Officer (ESO) or counselor within their Military Service prior to enrollment at Lionel University.

This helps ensure that Service members understand their Tuition Assistance eligibility and potential financial responsibility to the University.

If an eligible Service member elects to use Tuition Assistance, enrollment will occur only after TA is approved by the individual's Service. Service members may be responsible for tuition costs if approval is not obtained before enrollment.

All Military Tuition Assistance must be requested and approved prior to the course start date. Military TA is approved on a course-by-course basis and only for the specific courses and class dates requested by the Service member.

Notification of Military Service +

Students must provide written notice to the University as timely as possible regarding military activation, a permanent change of station (PCS), deployment orders, training orders, or other military orders that interfere with their ability to complete coursework.

Alternatively, at the time of re-admission, a student may submit an attestation of military service that necessitated their absence from the University.

Withdrawal Due to Military Service +

Students ordered to military service may either complete their course or courses at a later date without penalty or withdraw from the course or courses with a full refund of fees paid.

If a student withdraws, the student's record will reflect that the withdrawal was due to active military service.

In certain circumstances, a student may request an extension. If approved, the student will receive an additional thirty (30) days to complete coursework. Extension requests are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

If a student withdraws from the class, a grade of “I” will be earned and the class must be retaken upon return to the University. The “I” grade will not affect satisfactory academic progress.

Academic Calendar

Understanding the Quarterly Calendar at Lionel University

At Lionel University, we operate on a quarterly academic calendar designed to provide greater flexibility, more completion opportunities, and more frequent start dates throughout the year. Unlike traditional semester-based schedules, our quarterly system allows students to focus on fewer courses at a time, make faster adjustments, and stay on track year-round.

This page explains how our quarterly calendar impacts admissions policies, course structures, credit transfers, and start dates so you can make an informed decision about your education.

Choosing Lionel University means choosing a flexible, transparent, and student-focused learning model. Our quarterly calendar is designed to help you stay on track, adapt to life’s changes, and complete your degree efficiently while maintaining high academic and regulatory standards.

All information is provided for full transparency and compliance with academic regulations.

LIONEL QUARTERLY CALENDAR

Understand the Quarterly Academic Schedule

Learn how Lionel University’s quarterly calendar impacts admissions, course credits, transfer evaluations, and class start dates.

Admissions Policy +

Our admissions process follows the same high standards of evaluation and approval as any accredited institution, with added flexibility due to our quarterly calendar.

Key Points

Four Start Dates Per Year: You can begin in Fall, Winter, Spring, or Summer.

Shorter Terms: Each term is 13 weeks, with 10 weeks of instruction.

Faster Enrollment Adjustments: Missed a start date? The next one is never far away.

Compliance Note: Admissions decisions are based on academic qualifications, program requirements, and regulatory guidelines. The quarterly system does not change admission standards but offers more entry points for students.

Course Catalog +

Lionel University measures progress in quarter credits, which may differ from institutions that use semester credits. Understanding the difference can help you plan your degree path.

Degree Requirements

180

Bachelor's Degree Quarter Credits

120 semester credit equivalent

90

Associate's Degree Quarter Credits

60 semester credit equivalent

Credit Conversion Formula

Semester → Quarter: multiply by 1.5

Quarter → Semester: multiply by 2/3

Compliance Note: All course offerings, credit requirements, and conversion standards are documented in our official catalog to meet DEAC accreditation and regulatory compliance.

Transfer Credits +

Whether transferring to or from Lionel University, understanding how credits convert between quarter and semester systems is essential.

Key Points

✓ Lionel accepts transfer credits from both semester and quarter institutions.

✓ Conversion formulas help ensure accuracy and fairness in evaluating prior coursework.

✓ Some courses may transfer as electives if they do not directly match program requirements.

Credit Conversion Formula

Semester → Quarter: multiply by 1.5

Quarter → Semester: multiply by 2/3

Compliance Note: Credit evaluations are conducted according to established academic policies and federal guidelines. Mid-program transfers may require additional course planning with an Academic Advisor.

Class Start Dates +

Our quarterly schedule means you can begin your studies at four different points in the year, offering flexibility for students balancing work, life, and education.

Key Points

Four Terms Annually: Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer

Term Structure: 10 weeks of instruction + 1 week for final grade submissions + 1 week for satisfactory academic progress review and degree conferral + 1 preview week

Year-Round Options: Continuous enrollment opportunities mean less waiting and faster progress.

Compliance Note: All start and end dates are published in the Academic Calendar for transparency and to meet regulatory disclosure requirements.

California Regulatory Information

CA BPPE

Any questions a student may have regarding the Annual Report that have not been satisfactorily answered by the institution may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education at 2535 Capitol Oaks Drive, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814, www.bppe.ca.gov , toll-free at (888) 370-7589 or by fax at (916) 263-1897.

Please note that our institution changed its name from International Sports Sciences Association to Lionel University in 2022. BPPE's published annual reports reflect school information that is two years prior to the current calendar year. Annual reports for periods prior to 2022 will reflect our former name.

CA BPPE Annual Report Approved Programs

Recognition

A University Education You Can Trust

Lionel University is recognized by respected accrediting and industry organizations.

Accreditation Disclosure

Lionel University is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), a recognized accrediting agency by the U.S. Department of Education. See accreditation & disclosures

Note: Industry partners and recognitions shown do not imply endorsement of outcomes, employment, or licensure.

Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission

Lionel University has been fully accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission since 2009, ensuring high quality, flexible education for online learners nationwide.

Proud to Serve Those Who Serve

Lionel University is honored to support military-connected students with flexible, career-focused education designed for those who serve and their families.

Recognized by the Health and Fitness Association

Our Certified Personal Trainer credential is recognized by the Health and Fitness Association, affirming alignment with national standards for fitness education.

Recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association

Lionel University is designated as an Educational Recognition Program institution by the NSCA, a global leader in strength and conditioning standards.

Fitness Sales Advisor (1)

Working While Learning

86% of students are employed while enrolled, with a majority working 30+ hours per week
Most students are balancing full-time work, family, and school — a powerful testament to Lionel’s flexible, stackable program design
Despite demanding schedules, student satisfaction remains high

Copy of Student 3

Consistently Engaged, Fully Invested

80%+ of students log in 3–6 days per week, showing strong commitment and consistent engagement
90%+ plan to continue to the next term, demonstrating exceptional retention and satisfaction
New graduate and certificate programs are earn high marks building confidence and sustained growth

Student 2 (1)

Satisfied — and Ready for What’s Next

98% of students said they are satisfied with their studies at Lionel
94–95% would recommend their course to a friend
90%+ achieved the learning goals they set at the beginning of the course

Student 3

Mentored by Industry Leaders

Instructors scored 4.6–4.8 out of 5 on average across all categories
Top-rated traits: respect for students, prompt grading, and helpful feedback
Nearly every student felt valued and supported by their instructors

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Corrective Exercise Specialist

Build the ability to assess movement patterns and design programs that improve function and reduce risk. This pathway supports roles in recovery-focused coaching and connects to clinical exercise science study.

Thumbmail FITNESS SALES SPECIALIST - BILLBOARD (279 x 173 px) (2-906 x 1-802 in) (1-802 x 2-906 in)

Fitness Sales
Specialist

Develop communication, leadership, and business skills essential for guiding gym operations and client engagement. This pathway prepares you for supervisory roles and aligns with fitness management degree tracks.

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Facility Management Specialist

Learn core operations, safety, and service principles needed to manage modern fitness environments. This pathway supports leadership advancement and aligns with managerial degree pathways.

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Behavior-Based Coaching Specialist

Build communication and behavior-change techniques that help clients create sustainable, long-term progress. This pathway complements coaching roles and connects to leadership or psychology coursework.

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Blood & Biomarker Specialist

Learn to interpret key biomarkers that influence training, recovery, and long-term wellness goals. This pathway supports advanced work in performance optimization and future study in human physiology.

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LinkedIn Networking
Specialist

Enhance your professional presence and networking strategy to attract clients and career opportunities. This pathway supports job placement readiness and aligns with degree-level professional development tracks.

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Influencer Marketing: Launch You

Learn to create content, grow audiences, and build authentic partnerships in the wellness space. This pathway expands digital career opportunities and pairs well with coaching and nutrition programs.

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Toolkit

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