Students transfer for many reasons—limited opportunities, tuition costing an arm and a leg, or a mismatch in academic fit. Whether by location, finances, or program changes, transferring colleges offers you the chance to reassess your goals and find your true academic home.

Transferring to a new school can feel like a major detour on your academic journey. You’ve already started your studies and even completed a semester or two. Suddenly, your original education choice doesn’t make sense anymore; you used to be sure…but now, you’re left scrambling to adjust. The ordeal can leave you wondering, “Where do I go from here?” Many, many transfer students are in the same boat—you’re not alone in the struggle.

The transition process can be overwhelming, from navigating credit transfers and adjusting to new institution systems to making social connections in an unfamiliar environment. However, you can guarantee a smooth, successful transfer experience with enough planning, research, and a proactive approach.

Pre-transfer preparation

Before you get a head start on any sort of transfer, take a moment and think about your reasons and long-term goals for higher education. Some key questions to consider include:

• Why am I transferring?
• What does my ideal schooling environment look like?
• What opportunities am I seeking that are not available at my current institution?
• What school can support me and give me the best chance of success?

When starting your research, evaluate the differing programs, faculty, campus cultures, extracurriculars, and student support services across institutions. Each institution has its strengths and weaknesses in these areas, and every aspect should be compared and contrasted when choosing your new school.

Students who don’t thoroughly research potential schools tend to experience what’s known as “transfer shock.” A bad case of transfer shock can lead to poor academic performance at your new school, as well as an overall lackluster college experience. So, do yourself a favor and research what schools fit your criteria.

Talk to advisors and family early

Early conversations with academic advisors—both at your current and prospective institutions—are highly recommended. Advisors can provide guidance on eligibility, deadlines, credit evaluations, and the overall transfer process. Involving family members, teachers, or friends in these discussions can also offer personal insight and support tailored to you. Most transfer students gain much of their pre-transfer knowledge through peers and family.

Evaluate transfer credits

Pay particular attention to credit transfer policies, which vary widely between institutions. Some universities will accept most prior coursework, while others may apply strict limitations on what can and cannot be accepted. Understanding these policies is crucial to avoid delays in your graduation and repeating any previously completed courses.

Visit university campuses

Whether in-person or virtual, campus visits can help you evaluate whether a potential school fits your academic and personal goals. Familiarity with the physical or digital campus environment can ease the transition and help you get involved with student life earlier. A few laps around the campus could be just what you need to properly adjust to your new school.

Logistics and financing

Once you’ve found your new school, it’s time to get down to brass tacks—the financial and logistical aspects of the transfer. Education doesn’t have to break the bank, so it is essential to review and research the logistics of your transfer before any transition happens.

• Housing: Depending on location and personal preferences, you may choose to live on campus, off-campus, or commute. Virtual learning options may also be available and should be factored into making a decision.
• Know all necessary deadlines: This pertains to scholarships, class registration, housing applications, payment, and more. Missing key dates can delay enrollment or limit access to essential resources.
• Seek out transfer-specific programs: Some scholarships and programs are available exclusively to transfer students and can immensely assist in the transfer process. Many students aren’t aware of these when they first start researching, so they could be a helpful asset in your transition.
• Update FAFSA and financial aid information: Because financial aid packages differ on a school-to-school basis, you should anticipate changes in grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities.

Transfer to Goodwin University.

Academic success

Not every school operates on the same academic system. Each institution has its own academic structure, policies, and expectations, which can pose initial challenges for transfer students.

Nevertheless, with enough effort and the right support, academic success is entirely achievable. Colleges are dedicated to seeing all of their students succeed, transfers included, and offer many resources to help you along the way.

• Attend orientation events: Most campuses will offer transfer orientations where alums will show you around the institution’s facilities and tell you about their experiences studying there. They can also function as light social events for you to connect with other transfer students.
• Meet with academic advisors frequently: It is recommended that students meet with their academic advisors at least once a semester to answer any questions about their studies and career. Academic advisors are key to making a plan that will help students graduate early and be successful in the classes they enroll in.
• Take note of new resources and use them: These can include writing centers, tutoring services, and libraries. Every school will operate its resources differently, so learning and adjusting to these new methods are vital.

Social and emotional success

Transfer students don’t just face academic adjustments once they arrive. Some also need to overcome social and emotional challenges that come with moving to a new school. Leaving established friendships, familiar places, and routines behind can leave transfer students feeling isolated and lonely.

However, the best colleges and universities will offer a range of support systems to help new students integrate into campus life once again. No one should feel alone while attending college, so take advantage of these tips to make the most of your experience.

• Join clubs and organizations: Clubs and organizations are ways to socialize, get involved with the campus community, and make new friends at your chosen school. Your new school may have unique groups that other institutions don’t offer.
• Seek out college-provided counseling services: Many institutions offer therapy and mental health assistance. These confidential resources can provide guidance and support as students adjust to their new environment.
• Find transfer student groups: Many universities have centers and resources specifically designed for transfer students, including social events. These groups are a great way to meet new people united by the transfer process.

How can you be a successful transfer student?

A successful transfer to a new college or university requires thoughtful planning, self-reflection, and a willingness to engage with new opportunities. Students can turn the stress of the transfer process into a positive and rewarding chapter of their education by conducting thorough research, securing financial support, utilizing academic and emotional resources, and actively participating in what their new school has to offer.

At Goodwin University, 49% of incoming students are transfers, demonstrating a strong commitment to supporting students through this critical transition. There are quite a few reasons why so many students choose to come here. With six flexible start dates per year and the ability to accept up to 90 transfer credits, Goodwin provides a transfer-friendly environment designed to meet the needs of students at every stage of their academic journey.

Learn more about transferring to see if Goodwin University is the choice for you.