Transfer Credits to a New College Help?

I'm trying to figure out how my credits will transfer if I choose to switch colleges. How do I find out which credits are transferable, and what's the best way to handle this?

The best way to begin understanding whether your credits will transfer to a new college is by reaching out directly to the admissions offices at the institutions you’re considering. They can provide detailed information about their transfer credit policies and possibly connect you with a transfer advisor who specializes in this process. Some colleges also have online tools, sometimes known as "Transferology" tools, to let you see how your previous coursework might transfer to their institution.

Furthermore, request an official transcript from your current school – you’ll need this to confirm your courses and grades. Typically, schools are looking for courses that are similar in content to those they offer and have been taken at a regionally accredited institution, and they generally require a grade of C or higher. Also, keep in mind that credits from courses relevant to your intended major are more likely to transfer.

Once you settle on a target school, you may be required to send in your syllabi, so that your new school can evaluate whether the material covered matches course content at their institution. Be sure to keep a record of your course syllabi for this purpose.

Remember, even once the credits are transferred, they may not necessarily count towards your specific degree program. For example, some of the credits might count only as electives rather than fulfilling specific degree requirements. It’s important to be clear about not only which credits will transfer, but also how they will count towards your new degree.

In some cases, if you're transferring from a community college, states have agreements in place to make the transition to a state university smoother. Some universities also have similar articulation agreements with specific institutions.

The entire process can be a bit complex and requires considerable preparation, so it's crucial to start early. Make sure to check each potential new school's deadlines and procedures for transferring credits so you can plan accordingly.