The college transfer process can appear complicated. Colleges often give the impression that you should know what you're doing since you have gone through the application process before. But each college and university may have slightly different transfer procedures with varying requirements, making it hard to know the right course of action. Here are some answers to common questions you may have on your mind—and that you should be asking—to help you navigate your transfer from one school to another.
How do I decide where to transfer?
Don’t panic! You’ve gone through this process once before, so you already know a lot about the college search, including what characteristics of a college or university are important to you. Start by thinking about which aspects of your current institution bother you and which aspects you like. Then check to see if any schools offer articulation agreements or cross-registration agreements with your current college. Follow up by talking to friends at other schools, counselors, and alumni. Be thorough in your research. Once you’ve gathered some information, make a list of all potential new colleges and universities you could transfer to. Think about important facts about each of the colleges, such as majors, transfer scholarships, cost, and housing options. You can find out a great deal about most colleges by searching their websites.
When you’ve compiled your research, take this information and a comprehensive list of questions and visit campuses again! The visit is one of the most important steps you can take as a transfer student. Check out the feel of a college to make sure it will be a good fit. Specifically make sure to visit with a transfer admission counselor who can answer most of your questions, and don’t forget to ask about scholarships specifically for transfer students—including Phi Theta Kappa. Once you have a feel for the campus and your list of questions answered, you can start to narrow down your list to the schools offering you the most benefits. Stick to your priorities and the decision should come easily. Once you’re certain, you can start on applications!
Related: From One College to Another: The Ultimate Transfer Guide
Will I need to send my transcripts along with my application?
Most colleges will ask you to send not just your most recent transcript, but official transcripts from all colleges you’ve attended before they review your file. At some institutions, you will even be required to submit your high school transcript and standardized tests. Colleges and universities will usually ask for this only if you have less than two years of college courses. If this is the case, your admission counselor will consider not only your college transcript but also review the courses and grades received in your high school classes.
How do I know what classes will transfer?
Credits earned at a regionally accredited college or university with a grade of C or better will usually transfer to the college you plan to attend as long as they have equivalent credit courses in their curriculum. Many universities offer unofficial evaluations of credits through the admission office when requested, so you can get an idea of what credits will carry over. If you are planning to stay in-state, there are websites like NJ Transfer and NH Transfer that will help you sort out which credits will transfer. By working with a transfer counselor and being smart about which courses you take, you should have no serious issues transferring classes and finishing your degree on schedule.
When you visit campus, bring your transcript along with you. Admission counselors will be able to give you an estimate of which classes make the cut. Consider keeping the syllabi for the classes you took so administrators can get a clear picture of what each class entailed. Don’t forget to consider the actual course requirements you need to graduate too, not just credits. You might be able to transfer Archaeology 101 to your new university, but if you're planning to major in Chemistry, the class won’t help toward your degree. Check requirements to determine just how long it will take you to earn it.
Related: Fighting for Your Education: An Expert Look Into Transfer Credits
Will my financial aid transfer?
Financial aid does not transfer from college to college. Though your Expected Family Contribution (now referred to as your Student Aid Index) may be the same, you might not receive the same financial aid because colleges have different ways of calculating aid. You may, however, qualify for transfer merit scholarships. Transfer students may also be eligible for federal or state grants, work-study, or loans based on financial need. All colleges will ask you to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and some will ask you to fill out the CSS Profile.
The FAFSA can be found online at fafsa.ed.gov and should be filed as soon after October 1 (the prior year) as possible. The PROFLIE can be found at collegeboard.com. Make sure you provide all of the information requested by the college so that you can hear back promptly. Spring students will have likely filled out the form for the previous academic year and will just need to go back into the FAFSA and add the colleges they are considering. It’s also important to note that the FAFSA application is free, so if you find yourself being asked to pay, check the website address.
Related: 3 Important Things to Understand About Transfer Financial Aid
I received my acceptance letter—how do I enroll?
Once you have decided on where to transfer and have turned in all of your final transcripts, you will be eligible to enroll. Work with the admission office, advising center, or your individual advisor to set up an appointment. During your appointment, you should not only enroll for the next semester but also talk through your transfer evaluation and ask any questions that may have been left unanswered through this process.
How will I meet other transfer students?
Many schools will have an orientation specifically for transfer students, during which time you can pick up your student ID, parking pass, and textbooks; finish financial aid forms; and turn in your housing paperwork and immunization records. Most schools will host many events during the first few weeks of school. Join a club or organization to build a network of friends with common interests. You may also meet friends prior to starting school through social networking sites such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or even LinkedIn. If you choose to live on campus, you may meet new friends in the dorms or dining halls. If living on your own, find other students who may commute and see if you can get together for lunch or find a time to study together. Attend sporting and performing arts events to meet new people and enjoy all the talent hiding out on your own campus. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there! How else are you going to get to know new people?
Related: Bust the Myth: 3 Easy Places to Make New Friends as a Transfer Student
Transferring colleges can be difficult, but it's not impossible. Get all the facts so you can make the best decision for you. In the end, no matter why you decide to transfer, start as early as possible and plan ahead. Most importantly, relax. More students are transferring from college to college each year so you’re not alone. Get to know your admission counselor along the way and let them be your guide. Soon enough, you’ll be advising the newest class of transfers on which professors they should take and where to find the library.
Don't let transferring colleges intimidate you! Use Our Best Advice for the Transfer Admission Process to make the transition as smooth as possible.
