How do I transfer college credits to a new school?

I'm looking to transfer schools and want to make sure my credits follow me. What's the process for transferring these credits to my new college? Are there any paperwork or specific criteria I should be aware of?

When planning to transfer, it's important to first examine the transfer credit policies of your target college. Policies vary widely; some colleges may accept a large percentage of transfer credits, while others may not. Connect with the admissions office and the registrar's office at your new college to understand their guidelines.

A key step in transferring your credits is to request an official transcript from your current school. This document provides a record of the courses you've taken and the grades you've achieved. Once your new college receives this, they use it to determine how many of your completed courses fulfill the requirements for a similar course at their institution.

The specifics of this process depend on different factors, including the course level, course material and your grades. For a credit to be accepted, most colleges require that the course was completed with a certain minimum grade, like a C or better.

For a smoother transition, choose a college that has an articulation agreement with your current college. This is an understanding between the two institutions outlining which courses and credits are automatically accepted for transfer.

If you carry out these steps diligently, you should be able to successfully transfer your credits. However, be prepared for the possibility that not all of your credits may be accepted. Lastly, be aware that transferred credits typically do not affect your GPA at the new college; they simply count toward your graduation credits.

Remember: Stay proactive, ask questions, and establish clear lines of communication with both your current and future schools. The early work you do here will ensure a smoother transition!