TRANSFER FAQs

What is the difference between the terms articulation agreement, transfer guides, and transfer pathways?
There is no difference. Different colleges and universities use different terms for the same thing.
Is transfer pathway the same thing as the Pathway to Illinois program?

No, it's not the same thing. For information on the Parkland Pathway to Illinois program, please visit Pathway to Illinois.

What is the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI)?
The Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) is an agreement among 100+ Illinois colleges and universities to accept a package of courses, the General Education Core Curriculum (GECC), for their general education requirements.
Do I have to take all of my GECC classes before transferring?
While it is possible to take only some of your general education courses before transferring, you must take the complete GECC package (at Parkland, also referred to as the General Education Certificate) to guarantee that all of your general education classes will transfer. If you do not complete the GEC, four-year institutions are not obligated to accept the courses, and you may need to take additional lower-division general education classes to complete your bachelor’s degree.
What is the General Education Certificate (GEC)?
At Parkland, the General Education Certificate (GEC) is a program that includes all classes within the GECC package. Once they have been completed, you will receive a GEC certificate, and you will be able to transfer to a participating four-year college of your choice, without taking additional lower-division general education classes. The GEC certificate is a credential that will show up on your transcript.
Is the GEC (General Education Certificate) from Parkland the same thing as a GED (General Education Diploma)/High School Equivalency Certificate?
No, a GEC and a GED are not the same thing.