How to transfer courses from community college to a university?

I'm planning to start at a community college and then transfer to a university. How do I make sure the courses I take will transfer? Should I talk to an advisor or is there a resource I can check?

Transferring credits from a community college to a university typically involves several steps and you rightly mentioned speaking to an advisor, which is indeed a fundamental part of this process. Here's a basic outline of how you would go about ensuring your courses transfer:

- Identify Your Transfer University: Before you even begin courses at your community college, have an idea of which university you plan to transfer to. This will help streamline the whole process as you can tailor your community college curriculum according to the destination university's course requirements.

- Meet With An Advisor: Whether at your community college or your intended four-year institution, advisors are equipped to guide you through course selection based on your degree plans. Make sure you regularly check-in with them throughout your time at the community college.

- Check Articulation Agreements: Many community colleges have articulation agreements with certain four-year institutions. These agreements lay out exactly which credits will transfer to the other institution, which provides clarity and certainty.

- Use Online Tools: Most colleges and universities have an online database that lets you see which credits will transfer from other institutions. One common tool is "Transferology" where you enter the courses you've taken, and it tells you how those courses transfer to schools across the country. But check your intended school's website; it may have its own tool or instructions for this.

- Keep Your Grades Up: Lastly, ensure you maintain a high GPA in your community college. This not only increases your chances of admission at the university but also increases the likelihood of your credits being accepted.

Remember, starting at a community college can be a great way to begin your higher education journey. Being proactive and meticulous can help ensure a smooth transition to a university later on.