Do my GPA and credits transfer when I switch colleges?

I'm considering transferring to colleges, but I'm unsure how my current GPA will affect my records at the new school. How do schools handle GPAs and credits during the transfer process?

When you transfer colleges, your credits typically transfer with you. However, how those credits are applied can vary widely from institution to institution. Some schools may accept all of your previous course credits, while others may only accept a certain percentage, and others still, might only accept credits from very specific courses that have equivalents at their institution.

As for your GPA, that's a different story. While your academic records are certainly considered during the admissions process, many colleges and universities will restart your GPA when you commence study with them. That is, grades earned at your previous institution will not transition into your new institutional GPA. Of course, admission offices will consider your previous GPA when making an admission decision.

Remember, each institution has its policy in place for transfers, so you must reach out to your prospective new college’s transfer admissions department or academic advising office. They should be able to offer guidance based on your specific situation and educational background. They may also provide you with a preliminary evaluation of the credits you can potentially transfer.

One important thing to note is that transferring courses may affect your timeline for graduation. Depending on what and how many credits are accepted, you may need to catch up on certain classes or requirements, which can sometimes extend your anticipated graduation date. It’s important to have these discussions with an academic advisor to fully understand the potential impact of the transfer decision.