MCC Start Program
The MCC Start Program is an invite-only program in partnership with McLennan Community College (MCC) created specifically for students who we believe will thrive at Baylor with just a little more time to strengthen their academic foundation. This pathway is your direct route to becoming a Baylor Bear!
At McLennan Community College, you’ll take Baylor-transferable courses—many with flexible online or in-person options—while saving money and getting connected in the Waco community. By meeting the academic and conduct expectations of the MCC Start Program, you’ll be eligible to transition to Baylor as a member of the transfer class.
Through this experience, you will join a dedicated cohort of peers, enjoy individualized support, and form friendships that you will carry with you when you transition to Baylor.
Our partnership with MCC reflects Baylor’s long-standing commitment to preparing students for lifelong success. This program keeps you fully on track to graduate from Baylor on time.
Pre-Admission
Visit our website to meet your counselor and get the help you need as you move through the process.
Baylor receives more than 50,000 freshman applications each year for a limited number of spaces. Because of this competitiveness, many strong applicants are not able to enroll at Baylor immediately.
While we are not able to offer you a place in the Fall 2026 freshman class at this time, the Admissions Committee is excited to offer you a different path to Baylor — an invitation to join the MCC Start Program.
The MCC Start Program is a supportive, invite-only pathway in partnership with McLennan Community College (MCC) created specifically for students who we believe will thrive at Baylor with just a little more time to strengthen their academic foundation. This pathway is your direct route to becoming a Baylor Bear!
If you have any questions, please contact your Admissions Counselor.
Yes! If you complete the minimum required hours for your program with at least a 2.75 GPA, you will have a spot at Baylor.
Post-Baylor Offer
Once you receive an offer from Baylor to participate in the program, you will be directed to submit a short, free application with MCC to start the process with MCC directly.
MCC will share information directly with Baylor to ensure consistency.
Baylor University accepts transfer students from all community colleges and universities in-state, national, and internationally. However, this program is a partnership with McLennan Community College only.
Yes! Students in this program will take specific coursework designed to transfer into their desired degree plan. If you change majors while at MCC, the credits taken may not fit into your new degree plan.
Each student attending the MCC Start Program will work closely with a designated Baylor and MCC academic advisor to ensure they stay on track at MCC and have a smooth transition to Baylor once all requirements have been met.
Depending on your offer from Baylor, you will be required to complete either 1 or 2 semesters at MCC. The offer is based on your initial Baylor application and cannot be changed.
1 semester program participants – 15 credit hours before transferring
2 semester program participants – 24 credit hours before transferring
If you have been offered a spot in the MCC Start Program, your first step is to complete the interest form found in your goBAYLOR account. From there, you will be prompted to submit your application to MCC and follow their enrollment process. To learn more about this pathway program, we encourage you to attend one of our virtual informational sessions listed below.
February 3rd – 7pm
March 12th – 7pm
April 25th – 1pm
The MCC Start Program is available online; students can participate without moving to Waco. If a student chooses to move to Waco to participate in the MCC Start Program in person, the student is responsible for the cost of their food and housing.
Post-MCC Admission
All students must earn a GPA of a 2.75 minimum and enroll in a minimum of 15 credits to if participating in 1 semester or 24 credit hours after 2 semesters.
Students who are interested in the following majors will be required to earn a higher GPA for admission directly into these majors:
Biology - 3.5 minimum cumulative GPA
Biochemistry - 3.5 minimum cumulative GPA
Chemistry - 3.5 minimum cumulative GPA
Pre-Veterinary - 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA
Click here to learn more about major-specific requirements for Baylor.
Students must meet the 2.75 minimum GPA and minimum hour requirement. If the minimum GPA is not met, students should prepare to continue an extra semester to increase their cumulative GPA. At this point, students will not be considered part of the pathway program and should meet normal transfer requirements.
Students who do not meet the requirements for their specific major will be considered for admission as “Undecided” or a different major with a lower GPA requirement.
If you are participating in the one-semester pathway, you must meet the 15-credit hour requirement to transfer to Baylor. If participating in the two-semester pathway, you must meet the 24-credit hour requirement to transfer to Baylor. If you do not meet the requirement, you will be required to enroll one more semester at MCC. Please contact your Baylor Admissions staff member to ask any specific questions you may have at Jennifer_Ready@baylor.edu.
To earn credit for your MCC courses at Baylor, you must earn at least a C or higher.
No, as long as the student stays above the credit minimum students may withdraw from a course after the add-drop period and not have their pathway impacted.
Yes! The main contact for the MCC Start Program is Jennifer Ready. She will check in with you to prepare you for the necessary enrollment steps to transfer to Baylor on time.
The MCC Start Program is a partnership initiative that allows for enrollment in academic courses that will easily lead to articulation a Baylor degree plan. However, MCC Start Program students are not technically enrolled at Baylor during those semesters, so living on campus and participating in campus activities are not included in the program.
Students can be reviewed for need-based financial aid at both MCC and Baylor. During MCC Start, students will work with the financial aid office at MCC to review aid and billing information. Before transferring to Baylor, students can begin working with Baylor’s One Stop office on the financial aid process. Students must complete the FAFSA for MCC and Baylor to be considered for maximum need-based aid.
If you decide you no longer want to attend Baylor, please contact your MCC advisor as well as jennifer_ready@baylor.edu and we will remove you from the program.
Transferring to Baylor Process
NOTE: To complete your application, your high school must send an official, final high school transcript to Baylor Admissions. You can request for your official transcript to be sent at any time throughout the program.
One Semester:
During your semester with MCC, you will receive an “Intent to Enroll” form from Baylor via email. Completing this form confirms your continued interest in transferring to Baylor.
Once we receive your form, we will create your transfer application.
Two Semesters:
During your second semester with MCC, you will receive an “Intent to Enroll” form. Completing this form confirms your continued interest in transferring to Baylor. Once we receive your form, we will create your transfer application.
One Semester:
After receiving submitting your "Intent to Enroll" and receiving your conditional acceptance, you will be asked to pay a $500 enrollment deposit to hold your spot at Baylor. The final deposit deadline is December 15th, but we recommend submitting it early, by November 15th, for course registration purposes.
Two Semesters:
After receiving submitting your "Intent to Enroll" and receiving your conditional acceptance, you will be asked to pay a $500 enrollment deposit to hold your spot at Baylor. The final deposit deadline is July 1st, but we recommend submitting it early, by May 1st, for course registration purposes.
Merit-Based Scholarships
Admitted students are eligible to be considered for a transfer student scholarship to Baylor. Transfer merit-based scholarships are awarded once we receive your official MCC Fall or Fall/Spring transcript, provided you meet the eligibility criteria. You can learn more about our transfer merit-based scholarships here.
Need-based Scholarships and Funding
Need-based scholarships and funding are determined as a yearly offer, based on the student’s individual and/or family income. A completed FAFSA application is required to be fully considered for the highest amount of need-based aid a student may qualify for.
Enrollment
Students selected for MCC Start will receive their invitations as part of the freshmen admissions process. Invitations will begin with Early Decision applicants in December and continue on a rolling basis throughout the spring.
Students who choose to participate in MCC Start should submit their enrollment deposit by May 1. Depending on program capacity and availability, additional opportunities may be offered after that date. Information about the deposit amount and payment process will be provided to admitted students.
To successfully transfer to Baylor after participating in MCC Start, students must:
Remain in good academic and conduct standing at both MCC and Baylor.
Successfully complete the required Baylor course(s).
Earn a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA at MCC, or higher if required by their intended Baylor major.
Complete at least 24 transferable credit hours at MCC, excluding AP credit, dual-credit coursework, and credits earned during the preceding summer term at MCC.
Eligible students will receive information during the spring semester about confirming their intent to enroll at Baylor. Students who complete the required steps and continue to meet program requirements will be admitted as transfer students for the following fall semester and will be asked to submit their final official MCC transcript by June 1.
No. MCC Start is available only to students who are admitted to the program through Baylor's first-year admission process.
No, international students are not eligible to participate in the MCC Start program.
Students who do not meet the program requirements will no longer continue in MCC Start. The Baylor Admissions team will work with those students individually to discuss available pathways and next steps.
Students considering a leave of absence or interruption in enrollment should speak with their advisors as soon as possible. Participation in MCC Start requires continuous progress toward program requirements, and advisors can help students understand how changes may affect their status.
MCC Start is available only to students who are specifically invited to participate through the Baylor freshmen admission process. Students who are not offered a spot in MCC Start may still have other pathways available to pursue their goal of becoming a Baylor student.
Financial Aid & Billing
Students who successfully complete MCC Start will receive a $5,000 MCC Start scholarship that is renewable for up to six semesters. MCC Start students will also be eligible for a transfer merit scholarship (amount determined by their cumulative GPA) that is renewable for up to six semesters. Additionally, transfer students may submit the FAFSA to be considered for need-based aid. Baylor commits to meeting at least 75% of demonstrated need for students who successfully complete the MCC Start program.
During the first year, students will complete the FAFSA and receive financial aid through MCC. Once students fully matriculate to Baylor, they will complete the financial aid process as Baylor students and receive aid through Baylor.
MCC Start can provide cost savings in several areas, including:
tuition during the first year at MCC
housing costs for students who choose to live at home or off campus
meal plan expenses during the first year
Actual savings will vary based on individual circumstances.
Students who qualify through the FAFSA may be eligible for Federal Work-Study opportunities available through MCC during their first year and through Baylor in subsequent years.
Advising
Yes. MCC Start students will be supported by a Baylor advisor who is familiar with the program and can help guide their academic planning and transition to Baylor.
Yes. Students will work with advisors from both institutions to ensure they remain on track academically and make steady progress toward their Baylor degree goals.
Participation in MCC Start requires completion of all required program components. Students who do not complete required courses will no longer be eligible to continue in the program.
Most Baylor majors are available through MCC Start. A small number of programs have additional requirements or limitations that may affect eligibility. Your academic advisor will have a full list of majors that may have eligibility limitations.
It is not recommended that a student with more than 30 hours of credit accept an offer to the MCC Start program. Having this many hours means that fewer classes will be available for you to complete at MCC while staying on track to graduate in four years. Baylor University requires a minimum of 60 semester hours be earned in residence for an undergraduate degree.
Students have access to academic support resources through both MCC and Baylor, including tutoring services, supplemental instruction, academic coaching, study support resources, and learning assistance programs.
Students who do not meet the academic requirements for a specific major will work with advisors to explore available options and determine the best path toward enrollment at Baylor.
Students must complete at least 24 transferable credit hours at MCC across the fall and spring semesters.
During the spring semester, eligible students will complete the required “intent to enroll” form. Once completed, they will be admitted as degree-seeking transfer students for the following fall semester.
MCC and Baylor are committed to supporting student success and may use available academic indicators and support resources to identify students who could benefit from additional guidance and assistance.
MCC and Baylor may use available academic progress information to help support student success and provide timely advising interventions when needed.
Students will register for classes according to Baylor's registration processes and timelines in April 2027. Additional information will be provided during the transition process.
Academic
Students will complete designated Baylor experiences designed to support academic success and connection to the Baylor community. These may include Chapel, New Student Experience courses, academic success courses, and other transition-focused opportunities.
Some Baylor experiences may include sections designed specifically for MCC Start students, while others may include students from the broader Baylor community.
During participation in MCC Start, students are classified as “non-degree-seeking”. Upon successful completion of program requirements, they transition to Baylor as transfer students.
No. Students must earn letter grades in their coursework to satisfy program requirements and demonstrate academic progress.
Students may have access to selected career development resources during the program. Additional details will be shared with participants.
Student Conduct
As an MCC Start student, you are a member of both the MCC and Baylor communities. Students are expected to follow the policies, standards, and behavioral expectations of both institutions throughout their participation in the program.
When a conduct concern arises, Baylor and MCC will work together as appropriate to review the situation and determine next steps. Depending on the circumstances, one or both institutions may address the matter through their respective student conduct processes.
Yes. Students are expected to remain in good standing throughout the program. Significant or repeated conduct concerns may impact a student's eligibility to continue in MCC Start.
Information is shared only as permitted by applicable laws and institutional policies. Baylor and MCC work together to support student success while maintaining appropriate privacy protections.
Both Baylor and MCC are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment. Title IX reports and concerns are addressed according to the policies and procedures of the institution with appropriate jurisdiction and involvement.
Students are expected to uphold the academic integrity standards of both institutions. Academic honesty is an important part of the educational experience at Baylor and MCC.
When student safety concerns arise, Baylor and MCC may coordinate support and response efforts as appropriate to promote student well-being and community safety.
Campus Recreation
Yes. MCC Start students may access these facilities using their Baylor ID during regular operating hours.
Students may purchase an Intramural Sports Play Pass at the student rate each semester. Once registered, you'll have access to participate in intramural activities and can connect with teams through Campus Recreation.
Students are welcome to explore Baylor's Club Sports opportunities. Information about each club, including participation requirements, contacts, and tryout information, is available through Campus Recreation.
Yes. Students may purchase a FitPass at the student rate each semester to access group fitness classes. Advance registration may be required for some classes.
Care Team
Absolutely. MCC CARE Support is available to help connect students with resources and support. Baylor and MCC staff work together to ensure students receive appropriate assistance when challenges arise.
Students seeking recovery support are welcome to connect with Baylor's Beauchamp Addiction Recovery Center (BARC), which offers resources, community, and support for students in recovery.
Chapel & Spiritual Life
Students will receive information from their Baylor advisor regarding Chapel enrollment and available sections. Chapel is designed to support students' personal, spiritual, and leadership development while introducing them to the Baylor experience.
Yes. MCC Start students are welcome to participate in Baylor's campus ministries and faith-based organizations. Many opportunities are available to help students build community and grow spiritually.
Absolutely. MCC Start students are encouraged to engage in Baylor's service opportunities and community outreach initiatives.
Yes. MCC Start students may connect with Baylor chaplains and pastoral care resources for spiritual guidance, encouragement, and support.
Counseling Center
MCC Start students have access to counseling services through MCC. The MCC Counseling Center can help connect students with resources and support for personal, emotional, or academic concerns.
If you're facing challenges that are affecting your well-being or academic success, please reach out for support. MCC CARE Support and your advisors are available to help you identify resources and develop a plan for moving forward.
Health Center
MCC Start students with a valid Baylor ID may access Baylor University Health Services. Available services include medical visits, allergy injections, laboratory services, immunizations, travel medicine, psychiatric care, physical therapy, pharmacy services, and telehealth appointments.
Yes. Students who have registered for a Baylor parking permit may use designated patient parking spaces when visiting the Health Center.
Students who receive a citation while accessing Health Center services may contact the Health Center for assistance with the citation review process.
The Health Center accepts most major health insurance plans. Coverage and accepted plans may change over time, so students are encouraged to verify coverage directly with the Health Center.
Multicultural Affairs
Yes. MCC Start students are welcome to participate in programs, events, and resources offered through Multicultural Affairs. We encourage students to explore opportunities that help foster connection, belonging, and personal growth.
Student Activities
Yes! Getting involved is one of the best ways to make connections, discover your passions, develop leadership skills, and make Baylor feel like home. With hundreds of student organizations to choose from, there are opportunities for every interest, hobby, academic discipline, and calling. As an MCC Start student, you are encouraged to get involved from the beginning of your Baylor experience. Most Baylor student organizations welcome first semester students, offering countless ways to build friendships, serve others, and become part of the Baylor community. To maintain eligibility after your first semester, students must maintain a cumulative 2.33 GPA and a current 2.00 GPA. Some organizations have additional membership or academic requirements based on their mission or governing documents. Our Student Involvement Specialists are here to help you discover organizations that match your interests and goals. Whether you're looking to lead, serve, compete, perform, or simply find your community, we're excited to help you find your place at Baylor. Reach out to our team to explore involvement opportunities and get connected.
Yes. MCC Start students may access the Bill Daniel Student Center during normal operating hours. Access to certain spaces or events may vary based on reservations or scheduled activities.
In many cases, yes. Student access and ticket availability vary by event. Students should check with the Waco Hall Ticket Office for event-specific details.
Absolutely! Baylor's Fraternity & Sorority Life (FSL) community offers meaningful opportunities to build lifelong friendships, grow as a leader, serve others, and become an engaged member of the Baylor community. MCC Start students will have the opportunity to participate in Fraternity & Sorority Life after they fully matriculate as Baylor transfer students. At that time, students may participate in recruitment or intake processes in accordance with Baylor's eligibility requirements and the membership criteria established by each individual chapter. Recruitment and intake timelines vary by council and from year to year. To learn more about Baylor's Fraternity & Sorority Life community, visit the FSL website or contact the Fraternity & Sorority Life team. They can answer your questions, explain the recruitment or intake process, and help you identify organizations that best align with your interests and goals.
Yes! As an MCC Start student, you can experience one of Baylor's most cherished traditions by running the Baylor Line during your first semester. Joining thousands of fellow students on the field before kickoff is an unforgettable way to celebrate Baylor spirit, connect with classmates, and become part of a tradition that has united generations of Bears. To participate, you'll need a valid Baylor ID, an official Baylor Line jersey, a Baylor Line ticket, and tied tennis shoes. Students are also expected to follow all game day conduct and safety guidelines. For additional information about Baylor Line participation, game day details, and how to prepare for your first run, please visit the Student Gameday website.
Student Leadership Development
Not during your MCC Start program. Baylor leadership programs and opportunities require full Baylor student status. Additional leadership opportunities become available as students transition to Baylor.
Yes. MCC Start students are welcome to participate in the Certificate in Experiential Leadership program and may enroll through the Student Leadership Development office.
Students may be eligible for funding opportunities when participating in approved Baylor student organizations or departmental programs. Funding guidelines and eligibility requirements apply.
Students may be eligible for conference and travel funding when the experience is connected to their Baylor coursework or involvement in approved Baylor organizations. Funding availability and eligibility requirements apply.
Housing & Transportation
By public transportation: The City of Waco offers public bus transportation – Waco Transits Routes 1 and 9 connect MCC and Baylor. MCC students are eligible to receive a free Highlander Bus Pass, which allows you to travel for free on any fixed bus route. By personal vehicle: If driving a personal vehicle, the travel time between both campuses is typically less than 15 minutes.