Do you have to withdraw from your current college to transfer?

I'm contemplating transferring, but I'm not sure if I need to officially withdraw from my current college first. Can someone clarify the process for me?

Generally, the process of transferring doesn't require you to withdraw formally from your current school until you have received and accepted an offer from the school to which you're transferring. Until then, you'll want to continue your studies as usual.

The transfer process typically involves a similar application process as when you first applied to college. You'll likely need to compile your transcripts, letters of recommendations, and a personal statement or essay explaining why you're looking to transfer. In addition, standardized test scores may also be required or recommended.

Once you've been accepted to the new school and decided you will definitely be transferring, that's when you will need to initiate the withdrawal process from your current college. Each college will have its own policy and process for this, so you may want to reach out to your school's registrar or academic advisor regarding the specific steps to take.

It's also important to note that you will then likely work with an academic advisor at your new school to determine which of your credits will transfer over. Keep in mind that not all previous courses or credits may apply to your new program of study.

So, while you should stay enrolled at your current school while you explore and apply to other colleges, there will come a point in the transfer process where you'll have to officially leave your current institution to begin at your new one.