What's the transient process for college students?

Can someone explain what the college transient process involves? I've heard about students taking courses at other schools temporarily and want to know how it works. What are the benefits, and how do I enroll?

A transient student is one who is enrolled in one college or university (the home institution) but wishes to temporarily take a course or courses at another institution (the host institution), often during the summer term. This is usually done to fulfill specific credit requirements or take advantage of course offerings not available at the home institution.

Here's the usual process:

1. Confirmation of Eligibility:

The first step is to check with your home institution's registrar or academic advisor to confirm your eligibility to take courses as a transient student and to verify which courses or types of courses will transfer back to your home institution.

2. Course Selection:

Review the course catalog at the host institution to choose the class or classes you wish to take. Pay close attention to prerequisites.

3. Application:

Apply as a transient or visiting student to the host institution. This may involve some paperwork and an application fee. You might need to provide a transient letter or permission form from your home institution showing that you're in good academic standing and the course you aim to take is approved.

4. Enrollment:

Once accepted, you enroll in the desired course or courses. This process varies by institution.

5. Transcript Sending:

Upon completion of the course(s), you must request that an official transcript is sent to your home institution so the credits can be applied to your degree program.

The main benefits are flexibility in course selection and the ability to fulfill degree requirements when courses are not available at the home school. Just be sure to confirm that your credits will transfer back to your home institution before pursuing transient student status.