Minimum credits needed

In order to transfer from one four-year institution to another, most universities will require you to complete at least 8 courses at your university to qualify as a transfer student. Otherwise, you will need to apply as a freshman. Please check with the university you would like to transfer to see if they accept transfers in spring and fall, or fall only.

Personal statement and supplement

These will be the perfect opportunity for you to write a compelling essay explaining your desire in wanting to transfer, so you will want to ensure you spend extra time on these. According to PrepScholar, the personal statement needs to show:

• who you are through a story

• explain why you want to transfer or did not belong at your former school

The supplement needs to explain:

• for what academic reason do you want to transfer

You can write them in the Documents tab of your UStrive dashboard and your mentor will be able to view and make edits in real-time. Below is a comment from a Yale Admissions officer:

“Transfer candidates should also have particularly compelling and well-defined academic reasons for wishing to attend Yale. Wanting to leave one’s current school is not a sufficient argument for admission to Yale. Transfer candidates should explain in their application essays how studying at Yale would give them an educational opportunity in particular to their interests that could be experienced nowhere else. The Admissions Committee also gives serious consideration to a transfer applicant’s motivation, curiosity, energy, leadership ability, and distinctive talents. The personal essays and evaluations from college faculty members, deans, and secondary school counselors provide a great deal of insight into these qualities. We hope to find students who have made significant contributions to their college and local community.”

Here is an example of a compelling personal statement:

“My reason for wanting to transfer arises from a desire to search for those people I really fit in with. I have had a fine experience at my college so far; I enjoy my classes and have made many friends, but something is missing. I yearn for that intellectual challenge surrounded by students who inspire me to be great. I have tried to make this school right for me and search for potential lifelong friends. I have joined the Cooking club, club softball team, and the Oscar Wilde fan club. My experience at my school has convinced me more than ever that your school is my perfect fit, not because I long for the prestige of your institution, but because I long to be with the people who will truly challenge and inspire me everyday.”

Complete the application

Check to see what the university requires or prefers to submit your application. Some use the Common App or the Coalition App, while others have their own process on their website.

1. The Common App allows you to add an advisor to your application. Consider adding your mentor to have an additional set of eyes look over your application.

Pay the application fee

There is an application fee to apply; however, if your financial circumstances may make it hard for you to pay, there will be a section in the application platforms listed above which you can request a fee waiver. If the website you use to apply does not have a section where you can indicate such, please contact the university.

Check your status

Be sure to check your status frequently throughout the application process. You will typically receive an email each time an update has been made or if more information is requested of you.