Transfer FAQ

Transfer FAQ:

When should potential transfer student reach out to a four-year university?

It is never too early to start a conversation with the admissions team at a four-year university about transferring. Students are encouraged to reach out as soon as they are considering transferring. That way, the transition between schools is as seamless as possible! The transfer process can be difficult! They are able to help ensure that you are taking credits that will ultimately transfer into the four-year university of interest, and be admitted.

When will I be considered a transfer student?

You will be considered a Transfer student, if you enroll in any college level courses during the Fall after you graduate. If you take courses during the summer after graduation, you will still be consider a Freshman.

Students who take any college level courses during their high school career (regardless of the number of credits), you will be considered a Freshman student, not a transfer.

What is the difference between an AA, AS, and the Minnesota Transfer Pathway Curriculum?

Minnesota Transfer Curriculum-is a 40 credit package, Associate of Arts degree. It is basically the Liberal Arts core requirements that most colleges have for a Bachelor's degree.  The package is accepted by the University of Minnesota System, Minnesota State College and University system, and several Minnesota Private Colleges. The transfer curriculum is accepted as having completed most or all of the Liberal Arts requirements for a Bachelor's degree.

Associate of Arts Degree- combines both of the Minnesota Transfer curriculum (40 credits) and 20 additional credits. Students choose the additional 20 credits based on their program. This program works well for students who want to complete a Liberal Arts degree.

Associate of Science (AS)- half of the credits will be in the Liberal Arts area and the other half will be in the student's specific program (paralegal, nursing, business etc). There are also transfer pathways within the Associates of Science degree that colleges have partnered with to complete a four-year degree. For example,  2 Year RN program to 2 year BSN program.

Do institutions have a preference when it comes to transfer students, whether they have the Minnesota Transfer curriculum or Associates degree? As a student, if I have an Associates degree or Minnesota Transfer curriculum, am I guaranteed to transfer and complete my degree in two additional years?

Unfortunately, completing an Associates degree or AA degree does not guarantee a student will transfer and complete a four-year degree in two years. It is very dependent on the program you are transferring into. 

It is very important students begin working with the transfer admissions team from the university you plan on transferring to. They are always happy to help make sure you are on track and well informed!

How many credits does a student need for their high school transcript to be disregarded? What is the limit of credits  that can be transferred over?

The number of credits a student needs in order to not have to provide their high school academic information, is dependent on the college. Typically, the average number of transferable credits needed is between 24-30 transferable credits. 

There is not a limit of credits that can be transferred over. It is up to the individual university to decide how the credits will transfer over. Transferology  is an excellent tool that allows students to see how their credits will transfer over. FYI not all colleges use Transferology.

What resources do colleges provide for transfer students, before and after transferring?

Before:

• Most colleges and universities have transfer counselors within their Admissions team as a resource for students. The transfer counselors can help students make sure they are taking courses that will "count" towards their 4-year degree of choice. Reach out to the transfer counselors as soon as possible!

After:

•  Tutoring is available for students at most universities, for little to no cost.

• Academic advisers are there to help students register for the correct courses needed to complete their degree.

• Transfer orientation, typically during the summer for the fall entry term, allows students to become more oriented with university.

Can transfer students be part of the Honors program?

Yes, students are able to part of the Honors program!  Every university will have their own qualifications for their Honors program. Be sure to inquire when you transfer!