Do colleges need your high school transcript for transfers?

I'm thinking about transferring to another college and was wondering if I need to send my high school transcript. How important is it, and does it vary depending on the college? Thanks for the help!

Absolutely, colleges generally will want to see your high school transcript when you're applying as a transfer student, especially if you have not earned a significant number of college credits. This is because the rigor of your high school curriculum, as well as your grades, can help them assess your academic preparedness. The importance of this document can indeed vary depending on the college and amount of college credits you've earned.

For example, some universities may prioritize your college transcript if you've already completed a couple of years at your current school since it gives a more recent representation of your ability to succeed in a college environment. However, if you've only completed a semester or two, your high school transcript may carry a bit more weight.

Always check the transfer requirements of the specific college you're planning to apply to, as each college has its own set of guidelines for transfer students. Policies can be further complicated by whether or not the transfer is intra-system (i.e., from a community college to a four-year university within the same state system) or between unrelated institutions.

If you can't find the information on the school's website, you could also try calling or emailing the registrar's office to get a clear list of the required documents for transfer students.