Today our hearts are with the University of Valley Forge community. We think of students whose educational journey has been disrupted, families whose plans have shifted overnight, and faithful faculty who gave their life to the calling to shape young minds in Christ. The closure of the University of Valley Forge represents a significant loss for Assemblies of God higher education and the institutions within our faith tradition committed to Christ-centered education.
North Central University acknowledges this disruption and the legitimate uncertainty facing the Valley Forge community. To Valley Forge faculty and staff: North Central recognizes the dedication and professional commitment you have invested in your students and the mission of the institution. The institutional relationships you have built and the calling you have pursued are understood and respected.
We’re holding in prayer all students, faculty, and families affected. Your grief matters. Your uncertainty is legitimate. Your calling doesn’t end here. North Central is prepared to help.
A Shared Foundation
Both North Central and Valley Forge are rooted in the Assemblies of God tradition. This means we share core values: a commitment to Christ-centered education, an emphasis on spiritual formation alongside academics, and a belief that faith and learning belong together. When you come to NCU, you’re not just finding another university. You’re joining a faith community that understands what drew you to Valley Forge in the first place.
Beyond denomination, we’re alike in many ways. We’re both small, residential universities with a tight-knit family feel. Our faculty know your name. Our community is built on genuine relationships, not size and anonymity. From ministry and business to education, social work, and American sign language, our programs reflect a commitment to preparing students for meaningful work in the world.
Our Commitment to You
North Central University has weathered 96 years as a committed institution. Founded in 1930, we’ve navigated economic downturns, cultural shifts, and changing higher education landscapes. We remain committed to the same mission that brought us into existence: Christ-centered education that shapes the next generation.
We’re also deeply rooted in one of America’s most vibrant cities. Minneapolis offers internship opportunities, cultural experiences, and a dynamic big-city environment while maintaining the close-knit community feel you’d expect from a small Christian university.
Valley Forge students and families have been reaching out to North Central asking about transferring or starting their journey with us. We’ve been connecting them directly with admissions counselors, financial aid staff, and coaches. The process has been straightforward: quick acceptances, easy campus visits on short notice, real conversations with the right people who will make their time at NCU special.
Enrollment Pathway for Valley Forge Students
North Central University has developed a streamlined enrollment pathway for Valley Forge transfer and newly-admitted students, designed to reduce logistical barriers and facilitate educational continuity:
Automatic Conditional Acceptance
You can apply immediately and receive acceptance based on self-reported grades or unofficial transcripts.
Expedited Admissions Review
Our team will evaluate your transcripts and build your financial aid package quickly, so you can make your decision with confidence. Students interested in an expedited application process are encouraged to apply here and send their FAFSA information to North Central University (FAFSA code 002369). We will also waive the $200 enrollment deposit, allowing you to be enrolled in courses as quickly as possible for the upcoming semester.
Guaranteed Scholarships
Every Valley Forge student arriving at NCU receives a minimum package of $15,000 in academic scholarship plus $2,500 in Assemblies of God scholarship annually.
Travel Support
We’ll reimburse up to $1,000 in travel expenses for a campus visit before August 14. And if you visit, you’ll receive an additional $1,000 Visit Scholarship for your first year.
Affordable Christian Education
We understand that transitions are expensive. Beyond scholarships, you remain eligible for federal aid and military benefits. We’re committed to making a North Central education affordable.
For Student-Athletes
We understand that institutional closures create uncertainty for student-athletes and their families. With sports including men’s & women’s basketball, men’s & women’s soccer, men’s & women’s track & field, men’s & women’s cross county, men’s & women’s golf, volleyball, softball, baseball, North Central is an excellent university for students pursing a home focused on holistic formation across academics, athletics, and spiritual development.
Competitive Financial Packaging
While we do not offer athletic scholarships, we will build a comprehensive academic and need-based financial aid package designed to be competitive with athletic aid models at other institutions. Our approach prioritizes long-term stability and transparency throughout a student-athlete’s academic career.
Scholarship Stability Model
This is what sets North Central apart: Because our financial aid is rooted in academic achievement and institutional awards rather than athletic performance, student-athletes experience consistency and predictability across all four years, independent of coaching changes or roster adjustments. Your financial security won’t shift with your coach’s tenure or team performance.
High-Level Competitive Environment
As an NCAA Division III institution competing in the UMAC and NCCAA, our programs are committed to athletic excellence while maintaining strong academic standards. Student athletes join teams that prioritize competitive success, academic achievement, and spiritual development.
What Comes Next
If you’re navigating the closure of Valley Forge, here’s what we want you to know: You’re not alone. And your education matters too much to let uncertainty derail it.
Apply now at northcentral.edu/admissions/apply-now. Email admissions@northcentral.edu with questions—we’re here to help. If you want to visit, let us know, and we’ll make it happen.
About North Central University
Founded in 1930 and rooted in the Assemblies of God tradition, North Central University is a vibrant Christian university in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NCU offers over 30+ undergraduate and graduate programs, 13 varsity athletic teams, and a commitment to Christ-centered education that shapes minds, hearts, and lives. Learn more at northcentral.edu.
