Add Project Key Words

How to Prepare a Strong Transfer Application

If you are interested in transferring colleges, you are most definitely not alone. The percentage of students who change undergraduate institutions at least once is more than 30%. No matter how common this move may be, it represents a big decision. Your transfer application should be approached with as much effort as you put into your original applications!

I have counseled many students who decide that they plan to transfer before they even arrive for freshman matriculation. My first response to this is to slow down! Learn more about the school that has accepted you and try to identify things you like, opportunities you will pursue, and faculty you can learn from. Not only will a positive attitude reduce your misery-index during your first term, but motivated engagement will enhance your candidacy as a transfer applicant!

That being said, if you give your school a shot and it’s still not for you, here’s advice on how to create a strong transfer application.

Choose the best time to make a change

Transfer applications are typically due in March or April, and ideally you will apply to transfer after your first highly successful semester at your original school. It’s also true that the earlier you transfer, the more relevant your high school career will be. If you were a big high school superstar, transfer early. If you’re a late bloomer just now realizing your potential, then a couple of standout terms at college will help make your case. The later you transfer, however, the more likely it is that you will lose credits for some of the work you have already completed. And some schools will not even consider transfer applications after your sophomore year at college.

Be impressive

The most important part of a transfer application is your college transcript. It is very difficult to transfer “up” to a more selective school if your grades are lackluster. Sometimes, if you have completely changed your academic focus, you can explain that your poor grades in STEM classes reflect a newly discovered passion for literature, for instance. Regardless, you are going to need strong recommendations from your current professors, so participating in class and achieving academic success are important.

Get involved

Admissions officers also want to see that you had positive impact at your current college. Make sure that you participate in meaningful activities and get involved in the community. Don’t let unhappiness with your situation ruin your prospects for transferring. If all you do is sulk in your dorm room because you aren’t enrolled at your dream school, you are unlikely to be an attractive applicant!

Do your homework

When reviewing a transfer application, admissions officers have much higher standards for school specific rationales. They want to know exactly why their college will be a better fit for you than your old school. You will need to provide detailed and accurate information that makes your case. I once helped an applicant hoping to transfer to Johns Hopkins, whose initial essay asserted that the music department at her current school was inadequate and she looked forward to being a music major at a more serious institution like JHU. One problem: JHU only offers music as a minor. It’s important to mention specific coursework, research, and faculty members that have influenced your decision to apply as a transfer student to show that you know this school is for you.

Don’t complain

There is a strong tendency for transfer applicants to blame their current school for their unhappiness. Admissions officers don’t want to hear complaints about where you’ve been - they want evidence of the great things you plan to do next. I sometimes recommend that students write a personal diatribe listing all of their grievances just to get it out of their system! There is no place for whining in a college application.

Recognize the reality

Competitive colleges have very few open spots for transfers (Ivy League transfers are often in the single digits). They prefer to admit students who will still spend significant time at their new campus. Larger universities usually have more available spaces, but in general, transfer admit rates are more competitive than first year rates. You can analyze this data through College Board by clicking on a school’s Admission hyperlink.

There are many legitimate reasons to transfer colleges. But while you work towards your goal of changing schools, keep in mind that it is essential to successfully participate at your current college. Do your research, and take the application process seriously. It’s a good idea to talk with people at the schools where you are applying and to seek their guidance. A few things will be significantly more challenging about the transfer process, including the fact that you likely don’t have a dedicated guidance counselor reminding you of deadlines, proofreading essays, and giving advice. It will be helpful if you line up support from family, friends, or professional admissions experts to make sure that you stay on the right track!