How do you apply to a college as a transfer student?

I'm looking ahead to college and wondering about the transfer process. If you decide to transfer from one college to another, do you have to apply again like a new student? What steps are involved in this process?

Yes, you do have to apply again, much like you did as a new high school graduate. However, transfer applications usually have different requirements than first-time student applications.

To start, determine your prospective college's transfer application deadline; these often differ from freshman application deadlines. While the Common Application and the Coalition Application are used by many institutions, be aware that some colleges may use their own application system for transfer students.

Typically, colleges will require your high school and college transcripts, with details of the courses you've completed and the grades you've achieved. This allows them to evaluate which credits can be transferred towards your prospective degree.

Transfer admission often requires a minimum GPA, both cumulative and in specific pre-requisite courses. This can vary depending on the competitiveness of the program you're applying to.

Letters of recommendation are another common requirement. Some schools may ask specifically for a letter from a college professor who is familiar with your academic abilities and personal qualities.

Just like first-time applicants, transfer students will often need to write an essay. However, the prompt will likely be different, focusing on your reasons for transferring and what you hope to achieve at the new institution.

SAT/ACT scores may still be required, particularly if you have completed a low number of college credits. However, policies vary widely, so check the requirements of each individual school.

Lastly, you might need to submit a form called the College Report (or something similar, depending on the application system), which confirms your standing at your current institution. This must be completed by a school official such as a dean or registrar.

After you send in all the necessary materials, the waiting process begins! If you're accepted, the next steps will involve obtaining a credit evaluation to determine which of your credits will be transferred, as well as reviewing your financial aid award.