How do I transfer college credits?

I'm planning to switch schools and want to make sure my credits transfer. What should I be looking out for, and are there any common issues I should be aware of?

Transferring credits can be a smooth process, but you do need to do some groundwork to ensure you're maximizing your previously earned credits. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Check the Accreditation: You'll first want to make sure that both institutions are regionally accredited. This is because regionally accredited institutions are often reluctant to accept credits from nationally accredited or unaccredited schools.

2. Contact Your New College's Admission Office: This is your best resource. They will have information regarding their credit transfer policies. Sometimes, institutions make these transfer policies easily accessible online but if you can't find it, just make a call or send an email.

3. Understand Course Equivalency: It isn't just about whether credits transfer, but whether they apply toward the specific degree requirements that you have. Each course might be evaluated individually based on its curriculum, depth of material covered, and corresponding courses at the new institution.

4. Work with Academic Advisors: Both from your current institution and your potential new one. They can guide you through the process, and they'll know any specific rules or tips relevant to their schools.

5. Official Transcript: Be prepared to request an official transcript from your current college, and there may be a small fee associated with this service.

Common issues students may encounter include:

- Not all credits may transfer over due to grade requirements. Often, credits earned with a C- grade or lower are less likely to be accepted for transfer.

- Transfer credits might not fulfill specific requirements for your intended degree. For instance, credits earned from a hands-on course may not satisfy a theoretical course requirement, even if they are in the same discipline.

- Some institutions may have a cap on how many credits can be transferred, especially from community colleges.

Remember, it's crucial to check in with both institutions throughout this process. That way, you can ensure you're getting the most out of the credits you've already earned while taking positive steps towards your academic goals.