What's the process for college transcript submissions for transfers via Common App?

I'm applying to transfer colleges using the Common App, but I'm not quite sure how to handle sending my transcripts. Is there a particular method or any specific requirements I should be aware of in this process?

Absolutely, let's walk through it. The Common App has a system called the "College Report" which is a form that must be filled out by a college official from your current school. This form serves as an official transcript request and will need to be sent from your current (or previous) institution to your prospective schools. Here's a step-by-step process:

1. In the Common App "My Colleges" section, you will find the "College Report" under the "Recommenders and FERPA" subsection for each institution you're applying to.

2. Within "Recommenders and FERPA", you'll be able to invite a college official to fill out the "College Report". This can typically be a dean, registrar, advisor, or other college official who has access to your academic and disciplinary information.

3. You would enter their title, name, and e-mail in the provided sections. They would then receive an email invite to fill out the "College Report".

4. The college official will fill out this report, which includes affirming that you are or were in good standing at the institution and eligible to return. They will also upload your official transcript into this report.

Keep in mind that the process might slightly vary depending on your institution's policies, so it's always a good idea to check with your school's registrar or advising office to make sure you're following the correct protocol.

Additionally, some colleges may require individual department transcripts, so be sure to look for "Optional Report" or "Mid-Term Report" within the "Recommenders and FERPA" section of the Common App. These reports are typically requested from individual instructors or department heads and you'll need to send each one separately.

Finally, remember to send the requests well in advance of the application deadlines. Processing official transcripts can take some time, so it's better to make these requests early to ensure everything is ready by the time you submit your applications.