What is a Transfer Student?

It's a term that gets thrown around a lot when it comes to college, and you may have wanted an answer but were too afraid to ask. So, what is a transfer student? A transfer student is someone who completes a number of semesters or years of college coursework at one college or university before transferring to another. These students often enroll in a school that offers a specific major, only to discover their true passion lies elsewhere. Other reasons students may transfer include finances, location and preferred bachelor’s degree. When these situations arise, many students choose to make a change and find a new institution that can better meet their needs. 

In fact, nearly one third of all college students will transfer schools at some point during their educational career. Whether you are planning to transfer from community college or a four-year institution, if you believe this may be the right path for you, read on for everything you need to know about being an incoming transfer student.

Is a Transfer Student Different From a Freshman?

Yes. Although the schedule of a freshman and an incoming transfer student may be similar depending on your institution’s curriculum, the two are definitely different.

Transfer students are typically not in their first-year of college—maybe their second semester at the earliest. Transfer students have already completed some level of college education at another institution. 

While their college course schedules or bachelor’s degree admission requirements may differ, transfer students often face a similar set of challenges to their freshmen counterparts, such as:

• Adjusting to a new place
• Making friends
• Figuring out their new schedule

While it isn’t without challenges of course, transferring schools has the potential to be a great experience. As a transfer student, you have the opportunity to start fresh, get back on the right path to your goals, and find a school that works for you. 

How Does the Application Process Differ for Transfer Students?

Transfer students complete a separate transfer application process from freshmen. This is because the criteria each school uses to accept transfer students differs from their freshman acceptance process. As part of this process, transfer students have the chance to use their previous college experience in their favor, and show their potential new school why a change of scenery is necessary. 

Of course, every school’s admissions process will be unique. That being said, some differences between a standard college application and a transfer application may include:

• Transcripts 

While a freshman application will typically only require the high school transcript, a transfer student’s application will usually ask for both their official high school transcript and official college transcript. This is because your prospective university wants to see the entirety of your academic record, in order to make the best admission decision.

• Housing information 

Freshmen are often required to live on campus and purchase a meal plan. Depending on the school they attend and their age, transfer students may not be subject to this requirement. Specifically, most schools allow upperclassmen to forgo on-campus housing and meal plans, whether they are transfer students or not. 

• Essay 

Your first-year college essay is going to differ quite a bit from a college transfer essay. Transfer essays should specifically address the reasons you’re looking to switch institutions, and how this change will impact your educational and career goals. 

• Test scores 

Standardized test scores are often required for freshmen applicants, such as the SAT and/or ACT. Some colleges do not require these scores for transfer students.