How does the Bellevue College Direct Transfer Agreement work?

I'm considering starting at Bellevue College and then transferring to a four-year university. Can anyone explain how the Direct Transfer Agreement works and what I need to keep in mind while pursuing this path?

The Direct Transfer Agreement (DTA) between Bellevue College and many four-year universities in Washington State is intended to ensure that Bellevue College students who complete an associate's degree will have their general education requirements considered fulfilled when they transfer to the four-year institution. In other words, the DTA guarantees that your credits will transfer and fulfill the first two years of your bachelor's degree.

However, keep in mind that for your credits to successful transfer, you need to maintain a certain Grade Point Average (GPA), which might differ among different four-year institutions. Also, some programs may still require you to complete additional lower-division or prerequisite courses, even with a DTA degree.

Another important thing to remember during your time at Bellevue College is that while the DTA ensures your credits transfer, it does not guarantee direct admission into the university or program you're interested in. You will still need to apply for admission and meet all the admission requirements for the institution and program you're applying to.

For instance, if you're interested in transferring into a specific program or major like engineering or computer science, you may need to complete other specific courses with a high GPA, as these are often competitive programs with their own admission criteria.

It's advisable to meet with your academic advisor regularly to ensure you're taking the correct courses and that you're on track with your DTA degree. Planning ahead is key in this process. You might also consider meeting with a transfer advisor at the university you intend to transfer to, just to make sure you're meeting all of their specific requirements.

Lastly, it's crucial to remember that admission requirements can change, so check them often and stay in regular contact with both your Bellevue College advisor and advisors at your planned transfer institution.

In summary, the DTA can be a valuable route to four-year colleges and universities. Just be cognizant of the specific requirements and stipulations along the way.