What’s the process for transferring units from an out-of-state college?

I'm currently at an out-of-state college but considering moving to a local one. How do I make sure my units aren't wasted in the process? Do different states have different rules?

The process of transferring college credits from one institution to another can vary based on the policies of the schools involved, but there are some common steps you can take to ensure a smooth transition:

1. Research your prospective school’s transfer credit policies: Each school has its own policies regarding transfer credits. It's important to understand these ahead of time to avoid surprises later on.

2. Request an official transcript from your current institution: Most schools require an official transcript from your current college to evaluate which credits will transfer. Contact your current college's registrar's office to arrange this.

3. Submit your course syllabi: Sometimes, colleges may ask for syllabi from classes you've taken to determine if those classes align with the courses at their institution. Keep copies of all your course syllabi to help this process along.

4. Complete a course-by-course evaluation: In some cases, you'll undergo a course-by-course evaluation to see if each individual class you took will transfer over. This often includes a comparison of course content, credits, and learning outcomes.

5. Apply for a course equivalency review, if necessary: If your course doesn't automatically transfer, you can generally apply for an equivalency review. This review checks whether your course covers similar material to a course at your new institution.

It's also worth noting that not all credits always transfer, particularly for very specialized or upper-level courses. Lower-division (100 and 200 level) classes and general education credits are usually the most likely to transfer.

Different states do not have specific rules about transferring units, but individual colleges within different states may have varying policies. When transferring between schools, especially those in different states, the most important thing is to do your research and contact the admissions office or registrar at the prospective school to get personalized advice.

Finally, don't forget that academic advisors at both your current and prospective schools can be invaluable resources during this process. They can provide guidance based on your individual situation and course history.