How do transfer credits work at Amherst College?

I'm planning on transferring to Amherst College, but I'm unsure how my current credits will be evaluated. How does Amherst College handle transfer credits, and is there a way to check which of my credits might be accepted beforehand?

At Amherst College, transfer credits work on a course-by-course basis. You'll need to have official transcripts from your current institution submitted to the Registrar's Office. The transfer of credits is not automatic; instead, each course you've taken at your current college will be reviewed for possible credit at Amherst. Not any class will transfer; the course must be similar in nature, level, and content to the courses offered in Amherst's corresponding department.

To determine if a course is transferable, the College usually looks at the course description, syllabus, and the type of institution where the course was offered. Typically, classes similar to those offered in liberal arts and science programs are most likely to be accepted. Also, the course must be completed with a letter grade of C or better.

In terms of how many credits you can transfer, a maximum of 64 semester hours of transferable credit (equivalent to sixteen Amherst College courses) can be counted towards an Amherst College degree. Remember that your credits might not transfer on a 1:1 ratio due to differences in the credit systems between your current institution and Amherst. Also, note that while credits may transfer, grades from transferred courses will not affect your GPA at Amherst.

There isn't a direct way for you to check which credits will be accepted beforehand, but you can get a general idea by looking at Amherst's course catalog and comparing it with the classes you've taken.

Remember to also consult with the Admissions Office to clarify any specifics and to make sure you understand how the transfer process works. It's advisable to discuss your plan with an academic advisor at your current institution as well before making a decision.