When transferring to a new college, do you always have to transfer all your earned credits? I'm wondering if it's possible to leave some credits behind if they aren't needed for my new major.
When you're transferring colleges, it's not mandatory to transfer all your previously earned credits, but there are some variables to consider. The acceptance of transfer credits depends heavily on your new institution's policies. Some may require all of your credits to be sent over during your application for an accurate picture of your academic history.
If your new college allows it and some of your previous credits aren't relevant to your new major, you may indeed choose not to transfer them. Keep in mind, however, that even if the credits don't apply directly to your new major, they might still count towards general education or elective requirements, thereby reducing the time (and possibly cost) required to complete your degree.
In essence, while it's possible in some situations to not transfer all your credits, whether or not it's beneficial to do so depends on various factors such as the specific school policies, course compatibility, and how those credits could streamline your path to graduation. As always, it's recommended to consult with the registrar or admissions staff at your new institution to understand the direction that's best for you.
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