How do I transfer to the University of Maryland with an engineering major from Montgomery College?

I'm currently studying engineering at Montgomery College and I'm considering transferring to UMD. Can anyone explain the process and any specific requirements I should be aware of? Any tips would be helpful!

Transferring from Montgomery College to the University of Maryland (UMD) while maintaining an engineering major involves several steps, so it's terrific that you're being proactive in seeking advice! Here are the key things you need to know:

First, you will need to fill out a transfer application to UMD. The application deadlines are August 1 for the Fall semester and December 1 for the Spring semester, so plan accordingly. Keep in mind your essay plays an important role in the transfer application. It's an opportunity to explain why you wish to continue your engineering studies at UMD specifically. Try to focus on a specific aspect of the school, the program, or the community that genuinely compels you to transfer.

In terms of academic requirements, UMD usually seeks students who have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher, although competitive applicants typically have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. For the engineering program specifically, the Admission Review Committee looks for completion of Calculus I and II, along with a Calculus-based Physics course, by the end of the fall semester preceding enrollment. You should aim for a B or higher in these classes, as the Clark School of Engineering has competitive admission standards.

After submitting the application, it would be a good idea to send in your official transcripts from all post-secondary schools you've attended. These transcripts provide UMD with a detailed overview of your academic history, which helps them assess your preparedness for the Engineering program at UMD.

Montgomery College has an articulation agreement with UMD, which should potentially ease your transfer process. An articulation agreement is a partnership between colleges that can simplify the transfer process, meaning that certain academic credits or courses you've completed at Montgomery College may automatically transfer to UMD.

However, make sure to verify that the specific engineering courses you've taken fall under this agreement. You can do this by exploring the Transfer Course Database available on UMD's website, or by speaking directly with an academic counselor who can help guide you.

On top of this, reach out to faculty, professionals in the field, or even current UMD students in the engineering program. Gaining real-life perspectives can be invaluable in making decisions.

Best of luck with your transfer application! Transferring can be a complicated process, but with careful planning and taking advantage of the resources available to you, you can navigate it successfully.