Transferring to Washington University in St. Louis: What to expect?

Hello peeps! I'm considering transferring to Washington University in St. Louis, and I was wondering about their transfer acceptance rate. Is it particularly competitive, and are there any specific requirements for transferring? Any advice from people who have gone through this process?

Hello! Transferring to Washington University in St. Louis is a competitive process, as their transfer acceptance rate is typically lower than their freshman rate, hovering around 15-20%. Just like any top-tier college, WashU would expect solid academic performance from transfer applicants, so having a high college GPA (usually 3.5 and above) is essential. In addition to this, strong faculty recommendations and involvement in extracurricular activities play a crucial role.

The requirements for transferring to WashU include:

1. Common Application or Coalition Application (with a specific Transfer Application)

2. College Report (from a school official at your current college)

3. College Transcript(s) (from all colleges attended)

4. High School Transcript

5. Faculty Recommendation(s)

6. Mid-Term Report (with grades from your current semester)

7. A $75 non-refundable application fee or fee waiver request

Note that standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) are optional for transfer applicants, but you may submit them if you feel they would strengthen your application. Additionally, depending on your intended major or program, there may be additional requirements or prerequisites, so it's essential to review the specific department's information on WashU's website.

Some general advice for the transfer process:

- Start the process early, as gathering documents and materials can take time.

- Set a timetable for completing different parts of the application to keep yourself on track.

- Reach out to the admissions office to learn about any specific resources or support available for transfer students, as well as to have your questions answered.

- Make sure your essays showcase why you think WashU is the right fit for you and how transferring aligns with your academic and personal goals.

- Connect with current students or transfer students at WashU to gain insights into their experiences and any advice they might have.

Remember that WashU employs a holistic review process, so while your academic performance is important, demonstrating your involvement, passion, and fit for the university will also help you stand out as a transfer applicant. Good luck!