The transfer admissions process is complex and unpredictable, especially if your child is going it alone. Most college students who are planning to transfer will get very little advice on best fit colleges they should consider. Regardless of whether your child is coming from a 2-year college or another 4-year college, here are a few key questions you should consider.
1. My child is not happy with the college she’s attending and wants to transfer. What should she do first?
There are so many options available to students who want to transfer. But the first step your child should take is to identify a best fit college list based on her strengths and interests – intended major, location, size of school, and transfer admission rates.
Most 4-year colleges will have very clear prerequisites for students wishing to transfer to their institution, such as minimum number of units, GPA, and major course preparation. When we work with transfer students, we start with an extensive “listening phase,” with personality assessments to gage career and major options. We can then identify strong colleges to consider.
2. How likely is it for my child to get accepted to a private 4-year college as a transfer student?
The truth is, it’s complicated. Your child can certainly transfer. The question is where. The transfer process at private colleges can be much easier than the transfer process at a large public university. Take USC for example. Suggesting only 30 units of college coursework or a year of college completed, an applicant needs to have taken one lower-division writing course and one minimum math course (such as advanced or intermediate algebra) to be eligible to transfer.
3. What are the most important things to know when transferring to a Cal State or a UC school?
Let’s get specific. UC’s and CSU’s are extremely rigid about the courses they will accept from another 4-year college. The requirements are complicated. This is not the same as applying as a first-year student. UCLA takes more than 94% of transfer students from the California community college system, and prefers students who have completed 60 units at a California community college (not another 4-year college). Unfortunately, counseling resources at California community colleges are scarce, so if your child wants to transfer we suggest getting outside guidance.
How We Work with Transfer Students
When Ben came to us, he had attended two different community colleges. He was a competitive water polo player, had a strong GPA, and a great resume. Ben knew that he wanted to study psychology and prelaw, and needed help figuring out which colleges would be best for him. We created a tailor-made college list where he could pursue all his academic interests. James, our essay specialist, worked closely with Ben, giving him clear direction and consistent feedback, and Ben wrote some of the best essays ever. We are so proud that Ben will be in the entering class of 2019 at CU Boulder!
If your child is thinking about transferring, don’t wait too long. Click HERE to schedule a free phone consultation, so we can discuss your child’s transfer plan today!
