If you are thinking about transferring to complete your degree, think twice and do your homework first. Transferring institutions is an important decision, and one that can cost you time and money. The National Center for Education Statistics reports in its 2014 study that for students who transferred to another college, 39% transferred no credit, 28% transferred some credit, and 32% transferred all previously earned credit. Before you decide to transfer, work through the following steps to determine if it is the right choice for you.
Check first with your original college on your degree status
- Contact your college advisor to determine your remaining degree requirements and readmission procedures.
- Ask about the residency requirement and alternatives to returning to campus including online courses or taking courses at a nearby college to transfer back.
- Check on new options available at your institution such as online degree programs or accelerated degree programs for adult students.
- Find out if they award credit for work and lifetime experiences.
Consider the factors that affect your transfer and transfer of credits
- Transfer admission usually requires a minimum overall GPA of 2.0 and good academic standing at the last institution attended.
- You may need to raise your GPA and get back into good academic standing first before transferring by successfully completing courses at another college or online.
- Keep in mind that when transferring you may lose college credit and it could take you significantly longer to complete your degree.
- Courses with grades below ‘C’ typically do not transfer as well as institutional- specific or technical courses. The institution’s accreditation (regional versus national) may also affect the transfer of credits.
Evaluate transfer options thoroughly to make the right decision
- Contact potential transfer schools directly for more information on academic programs and admission requirements. Do not rely on an institution’s marketing campaign to make your decision.
- Verify the institution’s accreditation and whether it is accredited at the regional or national level and its status as a not-for-profit or for-profit institution.
- Ask for an unofficial degree audit to determine your remaining degree requirements and number of credits that will transfer and apply to your major. Be sure to have a copy of your college transcripts available.
- Contact your AthLIfe advisor to discuss your transfer options and degree completion plan.