Transferring colleges after several years?

I've been out of college for about 5 years and am thinking about going back and transferring. How do colleges view long absences from education when considering transfer applications?

Returning to college after a break is not uncommon these days, and many schools have policies in place to accommodate adult learners or non-traditional students. Colleges typically view gaps in education as part of an applicant's individual journey rather than as a negative aspect, particularly if you've spent the interim years working, volunteering, or gaining life experience in some other valuable way.

The most important thing for you as a transfer student is to explain your gap convincingly in your application or essay. Be transparent about why you took time off and what you did during that time. If you spent the break building a career, raising a family, or caring for a loved one, these are all points that can actually strengthen your application by demonstrating perseverance, maturity, and real-life skills.

Your academic record prior to your gap will still be important, but emphasis might also be put on your activities during the gap. Showing a steady work history, professional advancement, or community involvement can be beneficial. Further, you may want to consider taking a few refresher courses or even enrolling in a community college part-time to show you're ready for the academic rigors of returning to college.

Finally, make sure to check the admission requirements for transfer students for each of the colleges you're interested in, as policies can vary. Some might ask for recent standardized test scores, while others might waive this requirement, particularly for non-traditional students. Connect with admission representatives at the schools of your interest and discuss your situation. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific circumstances and their school's process. Good luck!