According to the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), about a third of college students end up transferring colleges. Transferring colleges may be the plan all along for some students, while others would have never expected to transfer in a million years. Life happens and things change. During my time as an admissions counselor, I was privileged to work with transfer students. Each student had a different academic journey that gave them something unique to contribute to the campus community.
Regardless of the motivation behind transferring and whether you are transferring from a 2-year college or another 4-year college, check out our guide of questions to ask when considering transferring colleges to find your best fit.
1. Do you have an articulation or transfer agreement with my current college?
This is a listing of courses and their equivalents at a partner institution. Articulation/transfer agreements show exactly which courses will automatically transfer.
2. Do you have a direct admission policy from my institution if certain requirements are met?
An example of this: Some 4-year colleges have agreements with 2-year colleges and guarantee admission if a student earns an Associate’s Degree with a certain GPA.
3. What kind of support is available for transfer students on-campus?
Unfortunately, it’s a reality that your GPA is likely to drop as a result of transferring. The adjustment to the new environment can prove challenging and the course content more complex at the new institution. This phenomenon is called transfer shock. It’s important to explore the resources your prospective college has combat transfer shock. Check for things like dedicated academic advisors for transfer students and transfer student organizations.
4. Should I wait to transfer until I earn an Associate’s Degree?
This can definitely vary from school to school and depends on which specific academic program you are interested in. DEFINITELY ask this question.
5. Are there any scholarships for transfer students?
A lot of schools have transfer specific scholarship opportunities. If high school wasn’t your thing, this is your second chance to rock it in college and earn a transfer scholarship.
6. How many credits can I transfer in?
This also varies from school to school. Ask for clarification between the credit hours you transferred in vs. the amount applied to your actual degree plan. Unfortunately, sometimes credits technically transfer in, but as electives only so they may not count towards your degree program. DEFINITELY get clarification on how your credits apply.
7. How long will it take me to earn my degree?
Ask for an evaluation of your current college credits and how they transfer into your intended degree program. Also ask how many credits remain to get a realistic idea of your graduation date.
8. Can I petition courses that I did not receive credit for that I believe are equivalent?
Many times, a transfer credit evaluation is an automated process performed based on common courses students have transferred in the past. If you are transferring from out-of-state or a private institution, the courses may not automatically transfer. Inquire about petitioning courses if you believe you weren’t awarded credit for similar classes you’ve taken. It’s worth a shot! The worst they can say is “no.” You may avoid sitting through Freshman Comp 101 for a second time.
Some colleges are more transfer-friendly than others, so prep yourself for that. We hope these questions are a good guide to aid you in finding your best transfer option. You can check out more transfer tips here!