How do I transfer credits from community college to UW?

I'm planning to move from my community college to the University of Washington and I'm super nervous about getting my credits transferred smoothly. What do I need to do to ensure everything goes through correctly?

Transferring credits from community college to a university like the University of Washington (UW) can indeed seem daunting, but rest assured, universities have systems in place for students in your situation! Here are some steps you should follow to ensure a smooth transition:

1. Check Articulation Agreements: Many community colleges have what are called "articulation agreements" with universities. These document which community college courses are equivalent to which university courses, so you know which credits will transfer. UW has a Transfer Equivalency Guide.

2. Understand UW's Transfer Policies: UW has quite clear guidelines on its website that lay out its transfer policies. I strongly advise becoming familiar with these guidelines.

3. Advisory Session: It could be helpful to schedule an advisory session with a transfer counselor at your community college. They can assist you in understanding which of your credits will transfer and in planning your course schedule.

4. Request official Transcripts: You'll need to request official transcripts from your community college to be sent directly to UW. This is typically done online through your community college's registrar.

5. Communication with UW: Lastly, it would be beneficial to communicate with UW's Admissions Office and your prospective department. This way, you can ensure that all credits were received and are being processed correctly.

This process can be time-consuming, especially if you're transferring a lot of credits, so make sure to start early. It's crucial to stay organized, keep track of who you've spoken with, what was said, and when. This will help you if any issues arise. Good luck with your transition!