What steps to take if I want to transfer?

Question

I am planning on transfering to a four-year college after i'm done with my two-year college. Do I need to do anything yet? What I mean is...I don't know how to expalin it...is all I need to worry about right now are getting good grades? I just started my 1st yr...I still have a while till I complete what I need to transfer. So, when do I need to start letting the 4yr college I want to transfer to that I want to attend their school? Or am I just rushing into things too early?

Answer 1

Your college GPA is going to be important. Very important. But there are other factors, too.

Firstly, you'll need an SAT or ACT score that you took no more than five years ago at the time you apply to transfer. You'll also have to have at least one recommendation (from a current teacher/professor) and have to write at least one essay (the "why I want to transfer here and what I've already learned"). Participate in any interesting extracurriculars that are offered at your junior college or do things in the community (paid or unpaid). Don't lose complete track of your high school and your high school guidance counselor since you quite possibly might have to send your high school transcript to your intended transfer school (in addition to your junior college's)

A vast majority of schools' transfer application deadlines are March 1 for admission the following fall semester (one notable exception is the University of California system whose deadline in December 1). This date is generally when everything needs to be in (application, recommendations, transcript, etc.).

For most schools, you don't have to "let them know" that you're planning to transfer except by submitting an application (many don't even do interviews for transfers). Of course, you should try and visit your top pick(s) and possibly chat with an admissions counselor. This gives you information on the school and you could potentially earn a couple brownie points in the admissions process.

And, no, you are not rushing things too early. It's good to plan things out ahead and I think you will do well in life if you continue that habit =)

Answer 2

This is a good question. Yet, you are rushing things a bit too early. When you have finished your two year degree, your advisor will typically help you with the transfer to the 4 year college or university of your choice.

Once you have decided which university to attend, you normally will do this:

1. Send your application to the University

2. They will want your transcripts from the Registrar of the Community College. You go to the Registrar with a form provided by the University, you fill out a transcript request form. The Registrar will then process your form and send your transcripts to the University of your choice. More than likely the university where you transfer will want sealed and certified copies, so your Community College may charge a small fee to process the request.

3. Once you have the transcripts, the application, and the letters of recommendation sent, the university will contact you with an acceptance or rejection note.

You will need to know that some of your credits from your two year degree will transfer and some will NOT transfer. Core requirements vary from school to school and while you may have taken the requisite 60 or plus hours for your associates degree, not all 60 will transfer. I've rarely seen where all credits transfer into your new university.

You will also need to check with the university that you plan to attend to make sure your credits were transferred and if you have any questions you can speak to someone in the Registrar office or the office for Transfer students (the name will vary from campus to campus).

Good Luck!

Answer 3

Your grade point average is extremely important. The better grades that you have will create interest from more 4 year universities. Also, it is important to take challenging coursework. Schools look favorably on calculus and less favorably on concepts of math.

Extra curricular activities also have an important role to play in transferring to another school. Universities want well rounded students who are leaders. Getting involved with Student Government is a must. In addition, you should also join a club related to your major. A social organization is also important, but not essential.

You should take writing classes to improve your ability to answer college essays. The ability to communicate proficiently is essential.

It will help you to hold a job while going to school. This shows responsibility. Also, you should find one nonpartisan volunteer activity to become actively involved.

It is never too early to start thinking about who you can get to write your letters of recommendation.

While the above may be helpful, at the end of the day, grades are the most important determining factor. After grades, presenting yourself as a well rounded responsible leader is important. Third is the ability to communicate clearly.

Answer 4

The firs question you should ask your self is , Is the degree you are working now, going to be used as a building block for your four year degree and are you sure you want to go to that school in particular?
If so , you'll need to make sure that the electives that you choose in your associate degree can be used as a pre-requsite for your upper level classes, that way you win bothways and don't waste credits or money.
The next question to consider is, Is the school your going to go to do your 4 year degree going to accept all your credits from your associates degree.
When you choose your major for your 4 year degree will they only accept A's b's and C's or do they accept other grades as well.
Last get a catalouge from the school that offers the 4 year degree and begin to look at the requirements for that program and make sure the classes you are taking are related and or necessary.
Its good that youi are thinking about these this now, because I know a few people who have over 180 credits and no degree because of misadvisment and no personal direction.

Answer 5

Most colleges don't require anything until the spring of the year you wish to enroll. In other words, deadlines are similar between transfer students and new freshman. Start worrying about it a year from now.