Are you having second thoughts about your college? Feeling underwhelmed or overwhelmed with the program you’re in?
If you’re leaning toward changing schools, don’t think you’re alone. According to a report by the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center (NSCRC), about 2.1 million college students transferred between institutions in the academic year 2020-21.
There are many reasons students transfer. Some experience financial difficulties and need to make some adjustments. Others do it to get into a degree program that aligns better with their career goals.
While you weigh your options, let us give you a walk-through of the transfer process. You’ll also learn some tips for a successful start after you’ve switched.
How to transfer from one college to another
Transferring colleges has its pros and cons. It takes time and effort since you’re starting over your college application on top of going to your college classes.
But if you’re sure of your decision to transfer, follow our tips below to give your college experience a successful do-over.
Step 1: Determine the college you want to transfer to
Before you start your college search, get clear on why you want to transfer and what you’re looking for from your next school. If you’ve changed your major and your current school doesn’t offer the program you’re interested in, that’s a great criterion for your search.
Maybe you’re in a two-year community college and decided to pursue a bachelor’s degree instead. Maybe you want a school in a walkable town so you won’t need a car.
Write down your criteria and use College Rover to match with colleges according to your preferences. You can also use the tool to get information on the schools you’re considering and compare colleges.
Step 2: Meet with your current academic advisor
It’s a great idea to meet with your current academic advisor. Your academic advisor can advise you on the next steps, whether that’s talking to the college admissions office or financial aid.
They can also give you an idea of whether your credits transfer since some of your college credits may not carry over. They will also let you know if you exceed the number of credits allowed to transfer and advise you on what credits to abandon.
Step 3: Get a transcript from your current college
The application process for college transfers and first-year students is the same with some additional steps. You may still need to submit an application essay and high school transcripts. They may ask for your GPA and SAT or ACT scores. Then, you also need to request a college transcript from your current school.
Make sure you get letters of recommendation from your professors and academic advisor to support your application. Submit the ones you got as a high school student as well, but recommendations from people who saw you handle college coursework are better.
Step 4: Learn about financial aid at the new college
U.S. colleges are expensive, so financial aid is important. Make sure you reach out to the financial aid of the school you want to go to. Ask about their student aid policies and fill out forms they may need from you.
Once you complete the forms, you’ll receive a financial aid package from the new school. If it’s less than what you expected, contact the financial aid office and ask what options are available for you to get more funding.
Be aware that there are fewer scholarship funds for transfer students. But some schools do set aside funds specifically for transfer admissions.
Step 5: Apply to your desired new college
It’s time to start the college transfer process. Check the school’s transfer requirements or talk to an admissions counselor to make sure you submit everything they need from you. Remember to get your applications in before the deadline.
Step 6: Hear back from the new college and prepare
You’ll typically get an acknowledgment message after you send your transfer application. Your prospective transfer school also gives you a timeline for when you can expect to hear back, which is typically three to five business days.
Once you receive the news that your application is accepted, follow the next steps. Write down the dates to send in deposits and housing preferences and any other forms to enroll.
4 tips for after you’ve transferred to a new college
You’ve made it official, awesome! It’s time to tie in loose ends and on to the next adventure. Here’s some advice on how to integrate smoothly at your new school.
Update your FAFSA
Whether you transfer schools or not, it’s recommended to update your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) every year. Make sure to do it after you receive your acceptance to your new school.
Also, let your current school’s financial aid office know that you’ve transferred. Check back to ask whether your account is fully settled.
Meet with your academic advisor or counselor
It’s also a great idea to meet with your academic advisor. You can go over your transfer credits and raise any questions or concerns you have. They can also guide you on how to plan your coursework, especially if you were enrolled in an associate degree program and switched to a four-year university degree.
Purchase books and materials early
Books can be a hot commodity, so make sure you buy your books early. Bonus points if you get a better price for it.
For general education courses, you might be able to rent your books. You can also check out the school’s library or buy used books at the bookstore.
Keep track of your new class start dates and times
Being prepared helps you keep your confidence whether it’s your freshman year or senior year. Look over the class syllabus your professors provide before the first days of classes, and jot down your class start dates and times.
If you can, get to campus a few days early. That way, you’ll have time to walk around and familiarize yourself with the new surroundings.
Visit admissions and ask for any transfer programs they may have. Schools usually have useful resources to help transfer students get settled.
College transfer FAQ
Get the answers to the questions about transferring.
How do transfer applications differ from first-year applications?
It really depends on the school because every higher education institution treats it differently. Transfer applications and first-time admissions can be the same if you’re going from one community college to another. But some colleges have a separate application process for freshman and transfer students.
Some schools can be more selective for first-year students but are less strict in taking in transfers. In other colleges, especially in four-year degree programs, the acceptance rate for transfers is low and competitive.
That’s why the admissions office and your academic advisor are your best friends during the transfer process.
How do I know if my credits will transfer?
Most schools have evaluation tools you can use to check the transfer credits they allow. Unfortunately, you have to prepare for the possibility that you won’t be able to carry over some earned credits. Sometimes, the syllabus and curriculum are so far apart that schools will ask you to take the class again.
Is it a good idea to transfer colleges?
There’s no right or wrong answer to this question. Ultimately, it’s your decision. But before you decide, think about the reasons you’re choosing to change schools.
Will it help you financially? Does it make sense for your career goals? Is the change going to help you earn your degree faster or offer better opportunities?
Find the best school for you with help from College Rover
Transferring from one campus to another is a huge decision. Before you commit, visit the college you’re planning to go to if you can. Or talk to current students to see how they’re getting on and how they like it.
Make sure you do your research. College Rover can help you with that. We have all the resources you need for your college search. Simply input your preferences and you’ll be matched with the college that suits your needs.
