Thinking About Transferring?
The Decision to Transfer
Are you thinking about transferring to a different college? Are you a Community College student looking to further your education? Are you looking for a different 4-year school because your educational purpose has changed? You are not alone! Over one third of four-year college graduates transfer schools.
Because the decision to transfer can be emotionally, financially, and physically draining, it is not a decision to be made hastily. Take time to figure out what is you need and want from the school, and if that school aligns with your education goals. Some things to consider when making the decision to transfer:
Educational Purpose
- Have your career goals changed since your initial college decision?
- What major/minors are you looking for? Are you seeking opportunities like internships, research, or other hands-on experience?
- Where do students at that college get employed after graduation? In what fields?
Financial Stability
- Have your finances changed?
- How much are you will to pay or finance each year?
- Considering an in-state school?
Location
- Is living in this area different than what you expected and not working for you?
- Do you want to be closer to home?
- Are you seeking opportunities that are available around you?
Social Situations
- Is the social environment different than what you expected?
- Do you feel uncomfortable, or even unsafe?
Whatever your reason for transfer, be sure to take your time and consider your options. Are your reasons things that can easily be fixed with just a few changes? Is your unhappiness preventing you from finding enjoyment in the things your current school has to offer? Or are your reasons for transfer things that can only be made better with a change in environment? Review your goals and desires and start searching for schools that have what you need to make the most of your college experience.
Choosing a College
The Application Process
I've Applied, Now What?
Academics
It’s important to keep your grades up throughout the transfer process. Sometimes, student don’t put in their best effort when they know they will be transferring. Keep in mind that you want as many credits to transfer over as possible, so maintaining good grades will ensure this will happen. Colleges will have a GPA requirements as well as specific grading requirements when transferring classes.
Financial Aid
You’ll need to add the colleges that you are interested in attending to your Free Application from Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If you are transferring between your fall and spring semesters, you will want to speak with your current financial aid office to cancel any financial aid you have for the spring semester. This will allow the new schools to work on a Financial Aid Offer for you. For additional information regarding Financial Aid, please visit our FA section or book an appointment to talk through your specific situation.
Making a Final Decision
Utilize your resources, including NHHEAF’s Center for College Planning, to help you make the best decision for you.
- Compare transfer credit evaluations.
- Compare your financial aid offers.
- Speak with Residential Life and Housing to ensure each school has appropriate housing for transfer students (if needed).
- Deposit: Once you have decided on a school that checks all of your boxes, it’s time to send in your deposit! You may want to speak with admission to make sure that there isn’t a different deposit cost for transfer students.
Need Help?
NHHEAF’s Center for College Planning is dedicated to serving all students throughout their education and career planning journeys, for free!