Is a high school transcript needed for college transfer?

I'm looking to transfer colleges and not sure if I'll need to include my high school transcript in the application. Is this something most colleges require? Already graduated a while ago, so I'm hoping I don't need it.

Most colleges do require an official high school transcript as part of the college transfer application process, especially if you have less than a year's worth of college credits. This is because your high school academic record provides an additional context for your academic performance and abilities. If you've attended college for a couple of years, some schools may not require it, but it's best to check the specific transfer application guidelines for the colleges you're interested in because requirements can vary.

For example, for schools that do require a high school transcript, they might use it to review prerequisites for certain programs or to confirm graduation. It also allows them to view your performance over a longer period of time, as it includes four years of education instead of one or two.

Remember that even if a high school transcript is required, colleges are primarily interested in your performance at the college level. They want to see that you’ve adjusted to the rigors of college coursework, especially if you're applying to transfer to a more competitive institution.

As it's been a while since you've graduated, you might not have a copy of your high school transcripts readily available. In that case, try reaching out to your old high school directly. Schools keep records of past students and should be able to provide you with an official transcript. Just be sure to ask them to put it in a sealed envelope if you're asked to mail it, because many colleges require that it's official and unopened.

Overall, the best course of action is to reach out to the admissions office of the colleges you are considering and ask about their specific policies regarding high school transcripts for transfer applications. That way, you can get accurate information tailored to your situation.