Understanding Community College to College Transfer Credits

How do transfer credits work when moving from a community college to a four-year college? Are there any pointers on which classes transfer smoothly or any pitfalls to avoid?

Ah, transfer credits! They can be exceptionally helpful but equally tricky. Here's how they typically work:

Once you've completed a class at a community college, you receive credits. When you transfer to a four-year institution, those credits can potentially count towards your degree at the new institution. However, whether these credits will be accepted depends on the specific policies at the four-year college.

So, how can you make the most out of this process?

1. Check out Articulation Agreements: Some community and four-year colleges have what's called an "articulation agreement". This is essentially a 'contract' where the four-year college agrees to accept certain credits from the community college. If the college you aim to transfer to has an articulation agreement with your community college, you're in luck. These contracts frequently outline the courses you must take at your community college to have your credits readily accepted to a specific program at the four-year institution.

2. Research General Education Requirements: Many four-year institutions have general education requirements (GERS). These are courses students must complete, regardless of their major. Often, classes that meet these requirements at the community college level will transfer, because they're fundamental to your undergraduate education.

3. Communicate With Advisors: Keep in good contact with academic advisors, both at your community college and prospective four-year colleges. They can help you navigate course selection, ensuring you choose classes likely to transfer. Advisors are there to help you, don't hesitate to reach out and ask questions.

4. Understand What Transfers: Typically, core academic classes in subjects like mathematics, the sciences, humanities, and social sciences are more likely to transfer. On the other hand, very niche or specialized courses may not.

5. Mind the Grade: Many colleges require a certain grade (often a C or better) for the class to be eligible for transfer.

6. Make Sure the Courses are Accredited: Most accredited four-year institutions won't accept credits from non-accredited community colleges. So, it's important to verify your community college's accreditation.

Finally, remember, transferring credits is not an exact science. But by researching, carefully selecting courses and staying in close contact with academic advisors, you can create a strategic plan that maximizes the transfer of your credits!