Do I need SAT scores if transferring from a community college?

I'm currently attending a community college and considering transferring to a four-year university. Do I need to submit SAT scores, or will they look only at my college grades?

The requirement of SAT or ACT scores for transfer applicants can vary considerably by university. Some schools do require SAT or ACT scores if you've completed a certain number of college credits, while others don't. Additionally, some universities only require test scores if your high school graduation was within a certain timeframe (like within the last 5 years).

As an example, let's look at a couple of popular universities. The University of Texas at Austin generally requires SAT or ACT scores from transfer applicants with less than 30 transferable hours. Meanwhile, Stanford University recommends but does not require, that transfer students submit these test scores, regardless of how many college credits they've completed.

Therefore, it's crucial to research each individual school's policy or reach out to the admissions offices of the universities you're interested in. They'll give you the most accurate information tailored to your situation.

Keep in mind, though, that your college coursework and GPA will likely carry more weight than your high school academics since these recent grades reflect your ability to handle postsecondary-level work. In addition to your academic performance, other elements of your transfer application, such as your essays and recommendation letters (if required), will be critical in showcasing your aptitude and fit for the university. So, make sure to devote ample time to these parts of your application alongside meeting the academic prerequisites.