I'm attending community college right now and want to transfer to Amherst College. Has anyone here done it? What should I know about the process and if there are any specific requirements or advice for community college transfers?
Amherst College is one of the few highly selective colleges that have a substantial commitment to accepting transfer students, including those from community colleges. They admit transfer students for both fall and spring semesters, and roughly 25 to 40 transfers matriculate each year.
When considering your application, Amherst College employs a holistic review process, paying close attention to your academic record at your current institution as well as your high school record. As for specific requirements, you need to have a good academic standing in your current college. Your course selection in community college also matters. Though there's no prescribed curriculum for transfer applicants, most successful transfer candidates are enrolled in a rigorous academic program that includes courses in English, math, natural sciences, foreign languages, and social sciences.
Make sure to submit all of the required application materials before the deadline. This includes the Common Application or Coalition Application for Transfer Admission, your college transcript(s), high school transcript, two academic evaluations, college report, mid-term report, and a $60 application fee or fee waiver request. Writing an effective personal essay is also crucial in presenting your story and reasons for wanting to transfer to Amherst College.
Please do note that Amherst requires all transfer students to live on campus, unless they are Resumed Undergraduate Education students, veterans, married, or have dependent children living with them.
It's always beneficial to contact the college's own transfer admissions office for specific advice and tips. They may have the most knowledge on strategies successful transfer applicants have used in the past, and other resources specific to Amherst.
Best of luck with your transfer process!
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