Navigating the Common Application as a Transfer

Been thinking about transferring lately and heard I should be using the Common App. Any experienced transfer students who can guide me through the process? I'm a little unsure about what's different compared to the first time I applied as a high school senior.

Absolutely, I'd be happy to provide some insights on navigating the Common Application as a transfer student.

First off, it's important to note that the Common App for transfer students is a separate application from the first-year Common App. Certain parts of the application will look familiar, like personal details and extracurricular involvement, but there are some key differences.

Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Account Set-up: Similar to the first-year Common App, you'll start by setting up an account on the Common App's website. This time, however, you'll select "Transfer" when asked to choose your application type.

2. College Search: Once logged in, you'll use the "College Search" tab to add schools you're interested in applying to as a transfer student. Ensure you're choosing the right academic term and year for your transition.

3. Application Basics: You'll be asked to provide the same basic information you would've provided as a high school senior - your name, address, demographic details, etc.

4. Educational History: Here's where the transfer app begins to diverge. You'll detail your high school education, but also your post-secondary schooling. This will include all college-level courses, grades, and credits earned, broken down by institution and term.

5. Activities and Work Experience: In this section, you'll outline any extracurricular activities, jobs, internships or volunteer work you've been involved in since high school. Highlight involvement at your current college or university, and any notable achievements there.

6. Personal Statement: Transfer students have a different personal statement prompt - it focuses on the student's reason for wanting to transfer. This part of the application really allows you to delve into your motivations for transferring and your academic/career goals.

7. Recommendations: Unlike the first-year app, the transfer app requires at least one recommendation from a college professor or instructor.

8. College Reports and Transcripts: You'll also need to submit a College Report – a form completed by a college official at your current institution that verifies your standing at the institution. You'll also submit transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you have attended (including summer schools and dual-enrollment programs).

9. College-Specific Supplements: Like the first-year application, many schools may have supplements for transfer applicants. These can include extra essays, short answer questions, or other information.

Start early and keep track of deadlines for all your colleges of interest, and make sure to ask for recommendations well in advance. Transferring colleges can certainly be a big change, but the process can be broken down into manageable steps. Best of luck navigating the Common App as a transfer student!