Transferring while finishing up at a 4-year college

Is it possible to apply for a transfer to another 4-year college while completing the current semester at my current school? How does this impact my application and will colleges wait for my final grades?

Absolutely, you can apply to transfer to another institution while you are still enrolled and finishing a semester at your current school. The admission committees at most colleges are accustomed to this situation and understand you would be in the midst of a semester at the time of application.

In terms of how this impacts your application, colleges typically ask for your most recent transcript during the application process—this would include grades up to the semester that was completed before the application was sent. You would need to provide transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you've attended, regardless of whether you earned credit.

After reviewing your application, a school may admit you contingent upon your performance for the current semester, or they may ask for a mid-term grade report or report of your grades once the semester finishes. If approved for transfer, you would have to submit your final official transcript from your current institution to the new college as proof of successful completion of the semester and courses you were registered for.

In terms of timing, this process aligns with regular transfer timelines. Most colleges have spring and fall transfer application periods. So, if you're applying in the spring of your current academic year, colleges generally won't wait to receive your final grades for the spring semester before making an admission decision. However, as outlined above, your admission could be contingent upon maintaining your current level of academic performance.

Remember to double check the specific transfer credit policy of the prospective institutions, as not all credits may transfer over. It can also be beneficial to speak with an academic advisor at both your current and prospective school to ensure you're on track.