How to transfer credits to Santa Monica College?

I'm planning to move to Santa Monica College and I have some credits I'd like to transfer there. How does it work, and are there any specific requirements or deadlines I should be aware of?

Santa Monica College does allow for credit transfer from other recognized institutions, so you should be able to take your credits with you. Transferring credits to Santa Monica College typically involves a few steps.

Firstly, you should obtain official transcripts from your previous institution(s) and submit these to the Admissions Office at Santa Monica College. Often, you would contact your previous institution's Registrar’s Office to request official transcripts and have them send these directly. Some institutions may charge a small fee for this service.

Once your transcripts have been submitted, Santa Monica College will assess whether the courses you've taken are equivalent to courses offered at their institution, and thus eligible for credit transfer. Keep in mind, this process can take some time.

It's vital to note that not all credits earned at your former school(s) may transfer. Typically, Santa Monica College would consider whether the course has a direct equivalent, its relevance to your chosen program of study, and the grade you received. Sometimes, only courses in which you've earned a C grade or higher will be considered.

Regarding deadlines, you should reach out to the Transfer Center or Admissions Office at Santa Monica College for specific dates. Generally, it’s best to submit your transcripts as soon as possible to ensure a smooth transition and avoid delays in your course planning.

Finally, it’s a good idea to meet with an academic advisor or counselor at Santa Monica College as they can guide you through the process and help you understand how your previous credits will apply to your new program of study. Remember that successful completion of this process would have you closer to your academic goals at Santa Monica College. Good luck!