Are College Admissions Easier For Transfer Students?
I might be forced to relocate to a college in a different state, long story. Are college admissions easier on transfer students? Can you transfer any time? It might be during the mid-beginning of my freshman year. I know money will be an issue but first I need to know on admissions in case this does happen.
Honestly, I think admission standards are easier on transfer students. For first time students, colleges often require standardized test scores such as the SAT or ACT. For transfer students, standardized test scores are normally not required however, they base their admission criteria upon earned transferable credits and GPA. Typically if you have earned at least 24 transferable credits with a GPA of at least 2.0, you most likely meet their transfer admission requirement. If you have earned less than 24 transferable credits, the GPA requirement maybe slightly higher and they may take into consideration standardized test scores.
Also, if you transfer to another state, keep the residency requirements in mind. Typically for residency, you need to have resided in the state for at least 12 months prior to the start of your attendance and file RESIDENT State taxes.
Best wishes to you!
Generally, I’ve heard that college admissions are much, much harder for transfer students. Don’t lose hope, though, because it is possible. One of the most important factors in being a successful transfer applicant is the essay on why you want to transfer. (That is, you can’t just be transferring on a whim; you have to have a legitimate problem with your current school.) So make sure you have a good reason to transfer.
A FANTASTIC website you should definitely check out is http://www.collegeconfidential.com. It has a ton of information, and on the off chance you don’t find what you’re looking for, you can post your own questions. They have a forum just for transfer students, and many of the other forums are helpful/interesting as well.
Good luck!
What college are you looking at? I know the UC’s are a lot easier on their transfers than they are on their freshmen. The acceptance rate is significantly higher for transfers in the University of California system. You can transfer any time you want as long as you have the right amount of credits. I hear it’s around sixty credits to transfer for most colleges. Over ninety credits is too much.