Steps to Transfer

Transfer Timeline

First Year (0-30 Semester/0-45 Quarter Credits)

1. Explore Majors and Careers.

  • Explore careers and majors by visiting the Career Center, a career counselor, or advisor.
  • Know the requirements of the various transfer degrees and decide early which degree you want to pursue. Meet with your academic advisor on a regular basis!

2. Begin your search for colleges and universities that would be a good fit for you.

Conduct a search for schools that offer your major of study. Visit some four-year colleges and universities—many have “Transfer Days” organized for transfer students.

  • Talk with college representatives during visits and Transfer Fairs
  • Decide on a “short list” of colleges or universities you’d like to attend.

3. Create a long-term plan for your degree completion and transfer.

  • Meet with an advisor at the university you are interested in to make sure you are taking courses that transfer and meet lower division program requirements.
  • Meet with your community/technical college advisor to develop an educational plan of which courses you will take until graduation.

Second Year (31-60 Semester/45-90 Quarter Credits)

1. Start searching for scholarships and gathering admissions application materials.

  • Make a transfer planning appointment with an advisor at your community/technical college.
  • Start preparing scholarship applications and continue narrowing the college search.
  • Apply for scholarships. (www.fastweb.com , www.washboard.org are two websites to search)
  • Make contact with an admissions representative and scholarship representative at the prospective 4-year institutions.

2. Apply.

  • Apply for admissions. Fall admission deadlines are usually between January and April. Some institutions have rolling admission deadlines and/or accept students every quarter/semester. Check the university websites for deadlines.
  • Request an official copy of your transcript from all schools attended.
  • Write a strong personal statement/essay. See a transfer advisor and work with your college’s writing center if you need guidance.
  • Prepare to fill out your FAFSA and any other financial aid paperwork early!www.fafsa.ed.gov

3. Decide on your university and finish up your transfer degree!

  • Complete graduation requirements.
  • Visit your prospective four-year schools if you have not already—accept/reject university offers.
  • Apply for housing (if needed).
  • Request final transcript from your community/technical college after graduation. Be sure to ensure degree is posted on final transcript.