What Is a Transfer Student?
A transfer student is someone who has studied at one college or university and moves to another to continue their degree. The student brings earned credits, which the new institution evaluates and may accept toward a degree. Transfers are common, especially from community colleges to four-year universities, and between four-year institutions.
Why students transfer
- Cost: completing the first two years at a community college can reduce expenses.
- Academic fit: a different college with better programs or support.
- Major changes, when a program is not offered at the original college.
- Location or life circumstances, such as family or work.
- Opportunities: research, internships or resources at another institution.
How transfer admission works
Applicants submit a transfer application, college transcripts, sometimes high school records and test scores, essays and recommendations. Colleges consider college grades most heavily, the courses taken and the fit with the intended major. Competitive programs may have specific prerequisites and minimum GPAs.
After admission, the college conducts a credit evaluation to decide which courses count and how. Some use online tools to estimate credit before you apply.
Protecting your credits
- Plan early: identify target colleges and their requirements.
- Use articulation agreements and transfer guides, which show which courses transfer.
- Take courses that match the major and general education requirements.
- Keep syllabi, in case you need to prove equivalence.
- Meet advisors at both colleges.
- Check grade requirements, since many require C or better.
- Be aware of limits, such as caps on credits from two-year colleges and residency rules.
Financial aid and scholarships
Transfer students may be eligible for aid and scholarships, including some designed for transfers. Submit the FAFSA or the relevant forms and check deadlines, since they can differ from those for first-year students.
Adjusting
Transfer students may find that fitting into a new community takes effort. Colleges often provide orientation, advising and student groups for transfers. Plan to get involved early.
Related terms
See articulation agreement, credit hour, degree audit, dual enrollment and open admissions.
Frequently asked questions
How many credits can I transfer?
It depends on the receiving college, which sets limits such as a maximum number of credits from other institutions and may require a minimum residency, such as the final 30 credits at the new college.
Will all my credits transfer?
Not necessarily. Colleges evaluate courses for equivalence and grades. Some count as electives, and some do not transfer. Ask for an evaluation early.
When should I apply as a transfer student?
Usually after one or two years, with deadlines in spring or fall for fall or spring starts. Check each college's transfer deadlines and requirements.