You often hear that the college years are some of the best years of your life. This is true for many students! But if you aren’t comfortable in your current environment, feel like you’re not adequately preparing for your future or are just ready for a change, maybe it’s time to transfer. Whether you’ve only completed a semester or have a full associate degree, check out this guide on how to transfer colleges!
First, make sure transferring is the right choice for you. This blog can help you make that decision.
Admissions requirements
Once you’ve made up your mind, and you’ve decided to transfer, reach out to the schools you are interested in.
Each school will have their own set of admissions requirements, but they’re often looking for students who are in good academic standing and have a certain cumulative GPA (at least a 2.0). Applicants should have met all financial obligations and be eligible to continue their education at their current school. This means if you’ve been dismissed from your current school because of academic or disciplinary reasons, your transfer may not be approved. Instead, consider enrolling in community college classes to improve your standing.
When to apply
Each university will have their own enrollment cutoff date; however, the best plan is to apply at least one term before you want to begin.
Transfer credit
Full credit will normally be given for all courses completed at any other properly accredited college or university in which you have earned a grade of C- or better. However, if you have completed two years of college, this does not necessarily mean you will be able to finish a bachelor’s degree in another two years. Work with the registrar’s office at your prospective school to develop a schedule and graduation plan.
Financial aid
If you plan to transfer, your financial aid will not automatically follow you. Update your FAFSA to include your new school’s information to be considered for state and federal aid. Then, find out if your intended institution offers scholarships and grants to transfer students.
Transfer partnerships
Have you earned an associate degree or are you almost finished? Congratulations! Find out if your current institution has transfer partnerships. Colleges and universities work together to help students earn their bachelor’s degree. Transfer partnerships clarify the process for transferring credits making the process easier for you!
Enrollment checklist
To enroll, here are the major steps you will need to complete.
Submit required application materials such as:
- Application
- High school transcript
- College/university transcripts,
- Transfer recommendation form from your last college/university attended
- FAFSA
Review your financial aid offer
Pay your deposit
Submit your housing information or request to live off campus
Attend orientation and registration events
At Bluffton University…
Since 1899, our faculty and staff have dedicated themselves to helping students like you find your talents, your passions and, ultimately, your way.
Taylor B. transferred to Bluffton and shared this advice: Use your resources and ask questions. Staff at most universities want to help, so take advantage of it. The more you are aware of what you need to do to transfer, the better.
At Bluffton, students who are interested in transferring will receive dedicated support from a transfer counselor. Take the next step and visit campus or apply!
Written by Tricia Bell, content manager, with input from Brianna Ferris, transfer counselor and admissions special projects manager