8 Transfer-Friendly Colleges to Consider

Classrooms Team

Dec 16, 2020
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College isn’t always a four-year experience wrapped in a pretty bow. It might take time to figure out what you want to major in or find a campus that feels like home. Transferring colleges is much more common than you might expect, but that doesn’t make it any easier.

Before you begin to stress about which credits you get to keep and how to navigate the financial complications of switching schools, check out this list. You’ll find 10 transfer friendly colleges to consider that transfer students rave about. See if any of them meet your educational or financial needs before packing up your dorm room.

1. University at Buffalo

The University of Buffalo is known for its reputation in the research world. It’s the largest college in New York and offers over 140 undergraduate degrees for transfer and traditional students. Your GPA must be between 2.5 and 4.0 for application consideration, although that field will narrow if you apply directly to degree programs. You also must have completed at least 24 credit hours at a university or submit both your college and high school transcripts if you’ve earned less than that.

For those who only experienced one semester or less of college, no worries. The admissions board will consider your high school transcript alone. The State University of New York System (SUNY) has waived SAT and ACT scores from transfer requirement lists for the 2021-2022 school year.

2. University of California — Los Angeles

If you’re a rising junior applying for the upcoming fall semester and have big California dreams, you’re in luck. The University of California in Los Angeles requires all transfer students to have completed 60 credit hours, or the equivalent of three years of college.

After meeting with a UCLA admissions representative, you’ll need a minimum GPA of 3.2 for consideration. It’s worth the extra study time. UCLA transfer students have a 94% graduation rate, with 68% graduating in two years or less.

3. University of North Texas

Anyone who’s thinking about transferring but isn’t sure that they’d qualify yet should consider the University of North Texas. It has a Transfer Assistant Program (TAP) that will work with you before you transfer, so there’s no guesswork involved. That means they’ll help even if you don’t currently qualify.

UNT can also help you financially. Whether you’re currently in Texas or not, they offer special transfer scholarships so you don’t lose educational options because of financial insecurity.

It’s much better to get aid through your school of choice whenever possible. You’ll avoid common scholarship scams that catch many unsuspecting students.

4. Emory University

Undergrad students go to Emory University either for its arts and science education or the Oxford College branch location. Although the university makes it easy to apply with the Common Application and a 3.0 GPA, transfer students must have completed 28 credit hours. Only after finishing an additional two semesters can transfer students apply to the Oxford College branch or Emory’s Goizueta Business School.

5. University of South Florida

There are many reasons why people choose to study at the University of South Florida. Located in the bustling city of Tampa, the university offers over 200 undergraduate degrees. It also features the most affordable tuition rates in the country while maintaining a thriving football program and campus life opportunities.

It’s the perfect place to apply if you’re nervous about transferring. Each year, USF accepts 62.85% of transfer students, so you won’t waste your application fee or the time you spent writing a knockout transfer essay. Even with its high acceptance rate, you’ll get a quality education in the tropical destination of Tampa.

6. San Diego State University

You’ll want to apply to San Diego State University if you’re ready to buckle down into your specialty. During your application process, you’ll have to select a major. Think about your interests and match them to possible majors, like channeling your passion for television into a spot with SDSU’s television, film, and new media production program.

Potential incoming students can get a second bachelor’s degree after transferring — which some universities don’t allow. Make sure to use their Transfer Admission Planner (TAP) to search their transferable credits database from U.S.-based community colleges and universities.

7. Portland State University

Portland is a fun place for young people who want to experience new things, so think about transferring to Portland State University. The admission office hosts monthly open houses to connect transfer applicants with advisors. They’ll connect you with financial aid representatives, show you around campus, and waive your $50 application fee for attending.

Check their admission requirements to join the 90% acceptance rate and experience why so many other students join the campus life.

8. University of North Carolina — Charlotte

Charlotte, North Carolina, became the fifth fastest-growing city in 2019 because so many young people want to call it home. They move there for the job opportunities and to attend the University of North Carolina branch based in the city. The university accepts 83% of transfer students, which includes students with and without college credit hours.

Compare Your Options

Even the best transfer-friendly colleges to consider will all offer something different. Compare your options based on your educational interests, career goals, or financial needs. You’ll find the right college with a little time and patience, thanks to universities like these that make the transfer process straightforward.

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