Can you transfer from community college to a university?

I'm considering starting at a community college to save money. How does the transfer process to a university usually work? Are there any major things to look out for when planning this?

Absolutely, you can definitely transfer from a community college to a university, and it's a common path that many students take for a variety of reasons, like saving money, as you mentioned. Here's a general outline of the transfer process:

1. Complete a set number of credits at the community college: Most universities require transfer students to have completed a certain number of credits, typically equivalent to about two years of full-time study or an associate's degree. This varies by university and by program, so it's important to check the stipulations of the institutions you're interested in.

2. Maintain a strong GPA: Because you are transferring, universities will look closely at your college GPA. While the required GPA to transfer will vary depending on the selectivity of the university, a high GPA will certainly strengthen your application.

3. Meet course prerequisites: Some programs or universities have prerequisite courses you must take before you can transfer. It's essential to know these requirements ahead of time to ensure your class schedule aligns with your transfer goals.

4. Apply to the university: You'll need to go through the university's application process for transfer students, which likely includes writing an essay and providing letters of recommendation.

5. Send official transcripts: Upon request from the university, your community college will send over your official transcript.

One major thing to be aware of is the articulation agreement if there's one between your community college and the universities you're interested in. An articulation agreement is a contract that outlines which credits will transfer between schools. This is immensely important as it can directly impact the time and resources you invest into completing your degree.

Another tip is to connect frequently with an academic advisor at both your community college and the prospective university, to make sure you're meeting all the requirements and that your credits will transfer. This will save you a lot of time and stress.

Finally, start your planning and research early. Every university has different deadlines, requirements, and prerequisites, so it's important to plan ahead to make sure you meet all those requirements before you transfer. Good luck!