What's the process for transferring to an online college?

I'm thinking about switching from a traditional campus to an online college. How does transferring work for online schools? What are the usual requirements, and do credits easily transfer over?

The process of transferring to an online college generally follows similar steps as transferring to an in-person institution. Here's a basic breakdown of the process:

1. Research: Begin by researching accredited online colleges that offer the degree program you're interested in. Look at the curriculum, faculty, tuition, and, importantly, the transfer policy of each school. It would be beneficial to select schools that are regionally accredited, as these schools often have higher acceptance rates for transfer credits.

2. Application: Once you've made your decision, apply to your chosen online college. The application usually involves filling out an online form and paying an application fee. You'll also most likely need to provide transcripts from your previous institution(s).

3. Credit Evaluation: This is a critical step where the online college's registrar or transfer office assesses your previous college credits to see what will transfer over. It's important to note that not all credits will necessarily be transferable. For instance, if you've taken very specific courses that do not have any equivalent at the online college, those credits might not transfer. Factors that can affect the transferring of credits include course relevancy, grades received (many colleges require a C grade or higher for transfer), and the accreditation status of your previous institution. Some online institutions may have articulation agreements with other colleges, which ensures easier transfer of credits between the two.

4. Enrollment: Following the evaluation, you'll receive a transfer credit report showing which credits have been accepted. If you're satisfied, you can proceed to the enrollment process, which typically includes speaking with an academic advisor to plan out your course sequence.

Remember to reach out to the admissions teams at the online colleges you're interested in for specific procedures, requirements, and advice. Some online colleges have dedicated team members to assist potential transfer students. Overall, stay proactive in this process to ensure a successful transfer.