Transferring Between CUNY Colleges

I'm considering a transfer from one CUNY college to another, and I'm not sure how this works. Has anyone done this before? What should I keep in mind during the process?

Transferring between CUNY colleges (City University of New York colleges) is a process called "Intra-CUNY transfer." Here are a few things you should consider to navigate this process:

1. Understand Admission Eligibility: Transfers are generally permitted between CUNY colleges as long as the student is in good academic standing and meets the minimum GPA for the desired college/major. But each college might have its own specific requirements you'll need to research. Also, remember that admission into certain highly competitive programs is not guaranteed even if your GPA is above the cut-off.

2. Transfer Application: You can complete the online CUNY to CUNY transfer application on the CUNY website. In this application, you’ll provide your current CUNY college, the desired CUNY college to transfer to, and your intended major.

3. Understanding Credit Transfer: Once accepted, the receiving college will evaluate your transcript and determine how many of your credits are transferable. CUNY does have a pretty systematic credit evaluation process; however, not all credits may count towards your desired major. It's recommended to have a discussion with a transfer advisor to understand this process.

4. Timing: Most students tend to go for Intra-CUNY transfer after their first or second year, but it's important to apply early. Keep a close eye on the application deadlines for the semester you want to transfer.

5. Financial Aid: If you receive financial aid, it's crucial to update your college choices on FAFSA and TAP (if you're a New York State resident) to reflect the change in CUNY colleges.

As a last tip, make sure you're transferring for the right reasons. Whether it's about academic opportunities, a change of environment, or a strategic step for your future career, ensure that the college you are transferring to aligns with your academic and career goals. Good luck with your transfer process!