Checking community college credits for transfer?

I'm at a community college and planning to transfer to a four-year school soon. How can I check if my credits will transfer to ensure I don’t waste time? Are there any tools or advisors I should consult?

There are several steps you can take to ensure your credits are likely to transfer.

Firstly, you can refer to a tool called "transfer equivalency database" or a similar resource available on many four-year schools’ websites. This database generally lets you see which of your community college courses have been transferred by past students and to which equivalent courses at the four-year school.

Secondly, you should reach out to both your community college's transfer advisor and the admissions office at the four-year school you're looking to transfer to. Your community college transfer advisor will have experience with past students transferring credits to various institutions, so they can provide you with insight. The admissions office at your prospective school may also have specific advisors for transfer students who can guide you through how your credits would likely transfer.

Also, if your community college has articulation agreements with any four-year schools, these can be a great asset. These agreements specify in detail how credits from your current institution will transfer to the four-year school which simplifies the process.

Lastly, look to see the kinds of courses whose credits typically transfer - generally speaking, credits from general education courses or courses in your intended major field have a higher chance of transferring since they align with requirements at most four-year schools.

Note that everything hinges on the specific institution you're planning to transfer to, and the most specific and reliable information will come directly from them. It's always a good idea to get confirmation in writing, so any agreements or declarations made can be referred back to if needed.