Switching Between Colleges at BU?

I'm already a student at Boston University but thinking of switching to a different college within BU. How does the process work for transferring between colleges on campus, and is it difficult?

Switching between undergraduate colleges inside Boston University, formally known as an intramural transfer, is definitely possible. BU has a structured process to help with the transition.

First, note that you're typically required to have completed at least one semester at Boston University to be eligible to apply for an intramural transfer. Some colleges within BU might have additional requirements like satisfying certain prerequisites or maintaining a minimum GPA, so make sure you check the specific criteria for the college you're considering.

Start by having a conversation with your current academic advisor. They can provide concrete guidance and even direct you to the appropriate associates in the college you wish to switch to. It's then essential to meet with your prospective college's advisor, as they can detail the program requirements and answer any specific queries about the potential new major.

Next, you'll need to fill out an Intra-University Transfer application. In this application, you'll likely need to articulate your interest in the new program and why you believe it to be a better fit for your academic and career goals. You may also need other materials, like a letter of recommendation from a faculty member, depending on the college's requirements.

The difficulty can range depending on competitiveness and specific criteria of the college you want to transfer into. For example, transferring into the School of Management might be a bit more competitive than some other programs.

I should also note it's often in your best interest to start this process as early as possible. Traditional deadlines are in the latter parts of fall and spring semesters, but earlier applications might lead to a smoother transition.

Remember, reach out to your advisor and make good use of the resources available at BU. It's a significant decision, so take your time exploring your options before you make a final decision.