How do transfer credits work between colleges?

I'm trying to figure out how to transfer my credits from one college to another. What should I look for to know if my credits will be accepted? Are there specific steps I need to take during the transfer process?

To transfer your credits from one college to another, there are a few essential steps you need to take.

Firstly, get a clear understanding of your current college's credit transfer policies. This involves knowing how these credits are categorized (quarter hours, semester hours) and reviewing your transcripts to know the total credits earned. Identification of equivalent courses between the two colleges can be done by checking course descriptions and syllabi.

Next, you'll need to research the policies of the college you plan to transfer to. Recognize that not all credits might be transferable. Some institutions only accept credits from regionally accredited schools or specific kinds of coursework. There can be a cap on the number of credits that transfer, which might affect your degree completion timeline. Some schools also have a "residency requirement," where a certain number of credits have to be earned at the school to grant you a degree.

After that, you should fill out a transfer credit evaluation form if the receiving institution has such a process. Schools typically have a credit evaluator or transfer adviser who would determine whether the credits will be accepted and where they would count toward your intended degree.

The good news is many colleges are a part of articulation agreements or partnerships with other schools. Articulation agreements smooth the transfer process because they pre-establish which credits from the sending institution will satisfy requirements at the receiving one.

Lastly, remember that grades could play a role. Often, colleges will only accept transfer credits for courses in which a student received a certain minimum grade, like a "C" or better.

In conclusion, while it's quite a process, knowledge about your current program, careful research about the receiving school's regulations, and proactive communication with advising personnel at both ends can make it a smoother experience.