Transferring from Mesa Community College: How do I handle my transcripts?

I'm attending Mesa Community College right now, and I'm considering transferring to a university next year. How should I prepare my transcripts for the transfer process? Any tips on what to include or watch out for?

Firstly, it's important to keep track of all courses you're taking at Mesa Community College, including those that may not have concluded yet, which you may be currently enrolled in. Transcripts are your official academic record from your school, so any coursework not accounted for can create complications in the transfer process.

Typically, you request your official transcript from the Registrar's Office at your current school. In your case, you can access the Maricopa Community Colleges Student Center and request your official transcript to be sent to your target universities. Make sure to request this well in advance of your prospective universities' deadlines to ensure they have the necessary time to receive and process your transcripts.

Watch out for any incomplete or failed courses. Failed courses remain on your transcript even if you retake the class, while an incomplete grade could potentially be replaced if you complete the required work.

Ensure all credit hours are accounted for, as well as the grades received in each class. It's important to verify accuracy because some universities will consider your course load and grades when determining admission and placement.

Lastly, be prepared to send your transcript more than once. Universities typically require a preliminary transcript when your application is submitted, and then a final one after you have completed all classes at your current college.

In terms of other things to consider, you should consult with academic advisors both at Mesa Community College and your chosen transfer universities. They can provide you with valuable insights, particularly when choosing courses to better ensure they meet the academic requirements at your future institution. Furthermore, regular meetings with your advisor can help you stay on top of any changes or updates to transfer procedures.

Remember, successful transfers result from careful planning and clear communication, so be proactive about knowing and meeting the requirements of your chosen universities.