What to Expect When Applying to Lionel

STEP 1

Get all of your questions answered.

Our Admissions & Recruitment Specialists are here to answer your questions and make sure you have the information you need to make a decision. Our advisors are not sales people. They do not work on commission, there is no sales pitch, and no obligation to sign up. Reach out to chat with our team by emailing your questions to enrollment@lionel.edu, or by joining one of our twice-weekly Q&A sessions. Sessions are only 15 minutes, and they will give you the opportunity to ask questions and determine if a degree from Lionel is right for you.

STEP 2

Apply to Lionel.

Once you are ready to apply, simply fill out our accessible program application. The application is simple and does not require SAT/ACT test scores. All you need is a photo ID and proof of your high-school graduation on hand.

See a list of upcoming class start dates →

STEP 3

Apply for Federal Student Aid.

Once you have applied, make sure to apply for Federal Student Aid by filling out the FAFSA (fafsa.ed.gov). Our federal school code is 042434. Note that our federal school code is listed under our former name: International Sports Sciences Association. Our name will update to Lionel University in the Department of Education database in the Summer of 2022. For more information, please reach out to our financial aid department at 1-800-650-4772 x3 or financial-aid@lionel.edu.

STEP 4

Send your official transcripts, military transcripts, or existing certifications.

Once you have applied, you will be able to apply for transfer credit by submitting a transfer credit application.
  • You may transfer in up to 60 credits into the associate degree, including up to two personal training certifications,* or up to 120 credits into the bachelor’s degree, including up to four personal training certifications.*
*Successful completion of a $0 competency exam is required to earn transfer credit for certifications.


To apply for transfer credit, please have an official transcript sent from each previously attended institution. To be considered official, a mailed transcript must be received in the sealed envelope in which it was issued by the school. An electronic transcript must be received directly from the issuing school via secure electronic delivery in order to be considered official. Transcripts that are received from the student or school official as attachments via email are not accepted. 

  • To send by email (securely delivered electronic transcripts only): registrar@lionel.edu 
  • To send by mail: Lionel University | Office of the Registrar | PO Box 190 | Carpinteria, CA 93014

Military training and experience can also be submitted for transfer credit. Please request that an official transcript be sent to our institution for review.

Once we receive your completed application, transcripts, and certificates, we will complete your degree audit and let you know which courses will transfer into our program.

Download Our Degree Guide

Our programs are 100% online and flexible to fit your schedule. Download our comprehensive Degree Guide to determine if a degree from Lionel University is right for you.

Download our degree guide