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When you are currently enrolled in one college and want to attend a different school, you will need to begin the transfer process. Transferring colleges is not necessarily difficult, but it does require you to research the admission requirements and the credit transfer process.
Are you thinking about transferring colleges? This guide breaks down the transfer student admissions process to help you learn how to transfer colleges as quickly and easily as possible.
Why Students Consider Transferring Colleges
The decision to transfer colleges is a highly personal one, with students choosing to do so for a wide variety of reasons. Whether you are looking to change majors or prefer a school closer to home, you want to know that your academic success will not be compromised. According to Inside Higher Ed, about 75% of administrators at both two- and four-year colleges agree that transfer students perform just as well or better than students who began their college career at their schools.
Before deciding which school to transfer to, reflect on your academic goals and personal learning style, as this will help you select the best college for your needs. Below are just a few reasons why students transfer colleges:
Academic Fit: Finding the Right Program for Your Goals
One of the top reasons that students choose to transfer schools is because the receiving school offers academic programs that better align with their needs and goals. For example, at Nebraska Methodist College (NMC), many of our transfer students apply for admission because they wish to pursue a career through our healthcare degree programs.
Personal Factors: Location, Support and Campus Culture
In addition, students sometimes find that the school where they are currently enrolled does not align with their personal values or offer the lifestyle they expected. Thus, they may choose to transfer schools for personal reasons, such as:
- Transferring to a school that they feel offers a better location.
- Transferring to a school with more student support resources available.
- Transferring to a school that is a better cultural fit.
Career Clarity: Changing Majors or Choosing a New Path in Healthcare
College is a time for growth and exploration, and some students enroll in a degree program that ultimately proves not to be suitable for them. In the event that you decide to change majors or choose a new career path, you may need to transfer schools to enroll in the program that is the best fit for you. In particular, if you are considering a healthcare career path, you will want to opt for a school that specializes in healthcare degree programs and offers hands-on learning opportunities that allow you to develop critical clinical skills.
Questions to Ask Before Making the Move
Before beginning the transfer application process, do your due diligence. The specific steps will vary from one school to another, with each college having different requirements for student admission, credit transfer and documentation.
As you consider which college to transfer to, these are a few questions you should ask:
Will My Credits Transfer — and How Many?
The number of credits you are able to transfer and apply to your degree requirements at your new school may vary based on the program in which you are currently enrolled and the major you plan to pursue after transferring. According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), transfer students in the United States lose an average of 43% of their credits when transferring, largely because they do not understand which credits will be considered relevant to their new degree program. By taking the time during the application process to explore how your individual credits will transfer, you will be better equipped to make a thoughtful and informed decision.
Is the New Program Aligned With My Career Plans?
Carefully contemplate the curriculum of the prospective degree program to ensure it aligns with your career goals. For instance, if you are considering a career in healthcare, you might transfer to a college that specializes in healthcare degrees.
What Academic and Personal Support Systems Are in Place?
It is crucial to transfer to a school that provides you with the support you need to be successful. As you consider various colleges, ask admissions counselors about the types of academic and student support services available; this will help determine if the campus will be a good fit for you, both on an academic and personal level.
Transferring Into a Healthcare Program: What to Know
The degree requirements for healthcare programs are distinct from those in other fields. If you are transferring into a healthcare program, be sure to take a closer look at the transfer admission and credit transfer process.
Understanding Prerequisites for Clinical and Allied Health Fields
Clinical and allied health programs generally prefer transfer students to have a solid background in science and mathematics.
Transfer-Specific Admission Requirements and GPA Minimums
The admission requirements for transfer students may differ slightly from the requirements for new students. At NMC, transfer students must earn a C- or better in undergraduate courses in order for credit to transfer to the new degree program. Transfer students must submit transcripts as part of their application process.
Accreditation and Licensure Preparation in Your New Program
Licensure is required in many healthcare careers, including nursing. As you consider transferring colleges and pursuing a healthcare degree, confirm that you are applying to an accredited school. Most regulatory bodies require those applying for licensure to have completed a relevant degree program at an accredited institution.
Evaluating Transfer Credit and Curriculum Compatibility
As you prepare to transfer, take steps to verify which existing credits will transfer and how these can be applied to the new curriculum. Transfer students have access to a wide range of tools that allow them to review their transfer credits and develop an understanding of which credits will transfer to their new healthcare degree program. Our transparent transfer credit tools give transfer students the confidence they need to take the next step.
How to Request a Transcript Review Before You Apply
The official transcript review occurs after you apply and are admitted to the program. However, at NMC, prospective transfer students are invited to set up a Transferology account to submit their completed coursework and determine which credits may be transferred. After submitting completed coursework, an admissions counselor will reach out to share more insight into what your transfer pathway might look like.
Navigating General Education vs. Major-Specific Credits
According to the Education Commission of the States, core general education credits are usually fully transferable — enabling transfer students to easily apply their previously earned general education credits to their new program requirements. Colleges may have stricter requirements for transferring major-specific credits, however.
Building a Strong Transfer Application
Similar to when you first applied to your current community college or university, you should invest time and energy into creating a strong transfer application. You can build a powerful transfer application by:
Writing a Clear and Purposeful Personal Statement
A clear, concise personal statement can offer a glimpse into who you are and why you want to transfer colleges. According to the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service, you can write an effective personal statement by:
- Crafting a strong (but short) opening.
- Sharing your enthusiasm for the program you are pursuing.
- Highlighting your practical skills and personal interests to showcase how you are a great fit for this program.
Highlighting Growth, Motivation and Readiness for Change
Don't be afraid to share your story within your personal statement or essay. Transferring colleges is common and nothing to shy away from. Incorporate anecdotes providing insight into your personal growth journey and illustrating that you are ready to begin this next chapter.
Securing Transcripts, Recommendations and Supporting Materials
The materials required for your transfer application may vary based on the school. Generally speaking, transfer students should include the following in their application packet:
- All high school transcripts and GED test scores (if applicable)
- All official college transcripts
- Written statement
- Completed program/career awareness questionnaire
Support Systems That Help Transfer Students Succeed
Administrators and instructors recognize that the transition from one college to another can present challenges, which is why many choose to invest in support systems that promote transfer student success. At NMC, we pride ourselves on facilitating a simple and transparent transfer admission process that eliminates confusion and prevents misunderstanding. Transfer students work closely with admissions counselors to transition between schools and successfully begin their new healthcare degree program.
Making the Transition Smooth and Successful
Work to ensure a smooth and successful college transition by:
Registering for Classes and Meeting With Faculty Early
After selecting your classes for the new semester, reach out to your professors and instructors in advance. Let them know that you are new to the campus network and open to meeting to discuss ways you can be successful in your chosen program.
Setting Academic Goals and Tracking Your Degree Progress
As you embark on your new chapter, take the time to set clear, realistic and measurable goals for your academic experience. Continue to work closely with academic advisors to track your degree progress and ensure you are meeting all requirements (like clinical experience).
Final Check-In: Is Transferring the Right Move for You?
Transferring colleges is a major decision for your education and career. Now is the time to decide — is transferring the right choice for your academic and career goals?
A Fresh Start Can Be the Smartest Decision
Plans, interests and needs change constantly. If you are feeling compelled to transfer colleges, you may be ready for a fresh start that allows you to reset, refuel and prepare for the next chapter of your life.
Transferring Isn’t a Setback — It’s a Strategic Step Forward
One misconception about transferring colleges is that it's a setback or the sign of a mistake. In reality, choosing to transfer is a strategic decision that may enable you to complete a degree program that better supports your evolving personal and career goals.
Learn More About the Transfer Application Process at Nebraska Methodist College
When you are ready to make the switch, it's important to know how to transfer colleges. The transfer requirements and application process may vary from one college to another.
At NMC, we offer a simple, streamlined process for our transfer students. Our admissions coordinators will work closely with you to ensure you are able to easily navigate the transfer student admissions process.
Sources
https://www.methodistcollege.edu/transfer-to-nebraska-methodist-college
https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-17-574
https://www.ecs.org/50-state-comparison-transfer-and-articulation/
https://www.insidehighered.com/blogs/beyond-transfer/faculty-and-credit-transfer