How to Transfer Colleges

Contents

1. Should You Transfer Colleges?
2. Understanding the College Transfer Process
3. How Hard Is It to Transfer Colleges?
4. FAQs About Transferring Colleges
5. Know Which College Is Right for You

Transferring colleges is a big decision. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, around one-third of first-year students end up transferring, but there’s a 70% chance some or all of their credits won’t transfer with them.

Whether you’re craving a change of scenery, chasing a specialized program, or just searching for a better fit, transferring is a path many students take. But before you jump in, it’s crucial to understand how the process works.

First things first—you need to figure out if transferring is really the right move for you.

Should You Transfer Colleges?

Before making the leap, ask yourself why you want to transfer. Your reason might feel valid now, but taking a step back to really think it through can help you make the best choice.

For most freshmen, homesickness kicks in fast—especially if you’re not clicking with your roommate or drowning in coursework. You might miss the comfort of home and feel like bailing. But hang in there! By the end of the first semester, things usually settle down, and you’ll have made some friends.

Outside pressure can also play a role. Maybe a friend or significant other is pushing you to come back home or join them somewhere else. Honestly? That’s the worst reason to transfer. You chose to leave for a reason—it’s time to move forward, not backward. Clinging to the past will only make you miss out on what’s ahead.

Take my daughter, for example. She thought about transferring early in her sophomore year. There were a lot of factors, but losing her scholarships if she transferred made her stick it out—and she’s glad she did. On the flip side, my son transferred from community college to a four-year school after two years, and it was absolutely the right call for him.

So, give yourself time to weigh your reasons. If you still feel your current school isn’t the right fit, then maybe it is time to transfer.

Understanding the College Transfer Process

From credit transfers to application deadlines, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you switch schools smoothly.

Step 1: Do Your Homework
Before diving in, research potential colleges that match your academic and personal goals. Look at location, programs, campus vibe, and cost.

Also, check each school’s transfer policies—things like minimum GPA requirements, necessary coursework, and application deadlines. Every college has its own rules, so don’t skip this part.

Step 2: Figure Out Which Credits Will Transfer
One of the biggest worries? Whether your hard-earned credits will come with you. While it varies by school, most colleges have a process for evaluating transfer credits.

You’ll need to send official transcripts from your current school to the new one. They’ll review your courses and tell you what counts. Some schools even give credit for AP exams, CLEP tests, or military training.

Step 3: Pick a Transfer-Friendly School
Some colleges have agreements with other schools to make transferring credits easier. Look for one that’s known for being transfer-friendly—some accept anywhere from 15 to 90 credits, so shop around to find the best fit.

Step 4: Check Financial Aid & Scholarships
Transferring can shake up your financial aid, so make sure you understand how it’ll affect grants, scholarships, and loans. Fill out the FAFSA and any other required aid forms for your new school.

Also, look into transfer-specific scholarships. When my son switched from community college to a four-year university, his grades landed him a merit scholarship.

Step 5: Talk to an Advisor & Make a Plan
Your new school’s admissions advisor can help map out your path. They’ll answer your questions, suggest degrees with fewer credit requirements, and point out any life or educational experiences you might’ve missed.

Work with them to figure out which credits will transfer and plan your courses accordingly.

Step 6: Start the Application Process
Once you’ve picked a school and sorted out your credits, it’s time to apply. That means filling out the transfer application, sending in transcripts, and maybe even writing a personal statement or getting recommendation letters. Just stay on top of deadlines!

How Hard Is It to Transfer Colleges?

Let’s be real—transferring isn’t easy, but it’s also not impossible. With good planning, clear communication, and a little flexibility, it’s totally manageable. Many colleges actually want transfer students and offer support like advising, orientation programs, and student groups just for transfers.

How tough it is depends on the school’s requirements, which credits transfer, and your personal situation. But if you do your research, talk to advisors, and stay organized, you can make it happen.

FAQs About Transferring Colleges

How will transferring credits affect my GPA?
Usually, transferred credits won’t change your GPA at the new school—just the credits count, not the grades.

How long does transferring credits take?
Anywhere from a few weeks to several months. It depends on how fast both schools move, how complicated the credit evaluation is, and whether all your paperwork’s in order. Start early to avoid stress!

Can I transfer community college credits to a 4-year school?
Yep! Especially if there’s an articulation agreement between the schools. Most students knock out general ed requirements at community college first to make sure everything transfers.

Is transferring from online schools the same?
As long as both schools are accredited, the process is the same—whether you’re switching between online or in-person schools. Many online programs are extra transfer-friendly since they cater to working adults and returning students.

For more FAQs, expert advice, and student stories, check out our College Transfer Center.

Know Which College Is Right for You

There are so many great schools out there—you just have to find the one that clicks. If you’re thinking about transferring, stay organized with Appily.

Create a profile, add schools to your list, and get personalized recommendations based on what you’re looking for. You can even search for scholarships and check transfer acceptance rates. Appily makes it easy to find your perfect match.