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How to Write a College Transfer Essay (With Examples)

Lisa Freedland is a Scholarships360 writer with personal experience in psychological research and content writing. She has written content for an online fact-checking organization and has conducted research at the University of Southern California as well as the University of California, Irvine. Lisa graduated from the University of Southern California in Fall 2021 with a degree in Psychology.

Learn about our editorial policies

Bill Jack has over a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. Since 2008, he has worked at Colby College, Wesleyan University, University of Maine at Farmington, and Bates College.

Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

Undergraduate transfers continue to increase, growing 5.3 percent from the fall of 2022 to fall of 2023. Students may transfer for a variety of reasons, ranging from academics to athletics to geography. Some students simply want to be closer to home or found that the culture of the college started out in is not a fit for them. 

If you are in the process of transferring colleges, it’s likely that you will have to write a personal essay as part of your transfer admissions process. Ultimately, there’s no one way to write a college transfer essay. Everyone is unique, and this individuality should shine through in your essays.

However, there are some recommended things to include, and even a real example essay that was used to successfully transfer college! In this post, we’ll help you write a powerful transfer essay so you can tell your story to the admissions committee.

Jump ahead to…

• Do’s and don’ts
• Why did you choose your current school?

What are your main reasons for transferring out of your current school?

Why do you want to attend the transfer school.

• Example essay

Additional resources

• Key takeaways
• Frequently asked questions

College transfer essays: The do’s and don’ts

Before we start, we want to cover a few basics do’s and don’ts about what your transfer essays should be about.

• Elaborate on how your current school has helped you progress towards your goals. Positivity is always a good thing!
• Research your prospective school (e.g. specific classes, organizations, opportunities) for why you want to go there.
• Make sure to follow the standard/correct essay format! Transfer essay prompts may vary from college to college so you should make sure that you’re answering the exact question.
• Use up your limited word count by listing negative aspects about your current school. Instead, focus on how it has helped you grow, but how another school could further help you develop your interests/passions 
• List a group of random classes or opportunities available at your new school. Mention opportunities you’re (genuinely) interested in that relate to your goals and passions – make sure you’re telling a story through your essay.
• Copy your initial admissions essay (the one that you used when applying to colleges in high school) – you’ve changed a lot during your time in college so you will want to write a brand new essay.

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What is the goal of the transfer essay.

Potential transfer students should know that not all colleges and universities require transfer essays, so when in doubt definitely check-in with the college in question for clarification. For the purposes of this article and the sample transfer essay, we’ll be using this prompt:

Please provide a statement that addresses your reasons for transferring and the objectives you hope to achieve. 

Most colleges will be interested in learning why you want to transfer and how transferring will help you achieve your goals. However, specific prompts will vary from college to college, so you should definitely pay attention to the specific prompt you are asked to respond to.

Some of the common questions you’ll come across include:

• How will your transfer school help you accomplish your goals?

Below I’ll break down how to respond to each of these questions and include an example from a successful transfer essay.

Also see: Can you transfer into an ivy league school?

Why did you choose your current school? 

To answer this question, you’ll have to go back in time when you were in 12th grade and selecting your college. Did you choose the college because it had a program you liked? Maybe you really wanted to take classes with a specific professor? Maybe you thought you wanted to attend college in a specific part of the world? Whatever the reason you should lay it out in the most factual way possible.

Here’s how I responded to this question:

Just like Jeopardy, Criminal Minds is also a show that I have watched from a very young age, and one that I continue to watch quite regularly. Being exposed to this interesting world of FBI profilers for so long inspired me to want to dive into the world of psychology myself. Due to this, I originally chose the University of Wisconsin, Madison for its amazing psychology program, and because I wanted to try something new. Being from California, this “something new” came in the form of watching snow fall from the sky, seeing cheese curds being sold in all the grocery stores, and simply living somewhere far away from home.

Also see: How to write a 250 word essay

This is always an important question for transfer admissions officers: why did your current college not work out? We recommend that students be as honest as possible and stick to the facts (as opposed to simply complaining about your current school).

Students have very different reasons for changing schools, which often depend on what type of school you’re transferring from (a 2-year or 4-year). While many community college students transfer because their plans did work out and they’ve accomplished what they wanted to at their school, those transferring from four-year universities often do so for less positive reasons (which was my experience).

If the situation at your college didn’t exactly pan out as you thought it would, you should also try to talk about some of the ways you are making the most of the situation. This shows the admissions officers that despite the less-than-ideal circumstances, you have continued to learn, grow, and contribute to your community.

Here’s how I accomplished this:

Arriving in Wisconsin, I got exactly what I wanted: an amazing psychology program and the experience of being somewhere quite different from the place I called home. My classes were interesting, my professors were helpful and caring, and experiencing the first snow was quite exciting. However, as winter progressed, walking back from class everyday under the progressively gloomier sky seemed to be a cruel reminder that I was no longer in sunny Southern California. While eating dinner in our many dining halls, I always viewed the wide array of food available: quesadillas, Chinese food, burgers, even pecan pie. The food was all delicious, but going day after day without even seeing Korean food once made me miss those fun dinners with my family. Back at my dorm, my “home away from home”, it started to feel like anything but being at home. To feel more comfortable where I was, I decided to pursue things I liked, and that I was familiar with. My passion for psychology led me to join the university’s Psychology Club, where I was able to learn about recent revelations within the field of psychology, furthering my interest in the subject. 

Going through the admissions process as a transfer student is interesting, because you have learned a lot about yourself and your preferences at your first college. This should provide you with a great perspective on what you are looking for next.

The two major things you’ll want to accomplish when answering this question are why the transfer college in question is a good fit for you and how it can help you accomplish your goals as a student.

Specificity is always more ideal here so you can show that you have spent some time thinking about what you want and also how the new college fits.

Here’s how I did this:

I plan on using the knowledge I gain in psychology, either from organizations or classes, to help people. I want to one day apply this knowledge to research, to discover possible methods to help the people suffering from the psychological problems I study. Alternatively, I hope to use this knowledge as a criminal profiler, using my understanding of psychology to narrow down pools of suspects.  To be able to accomplish either of these, I need to develop a much deeper understanding of both people’s motivations for the things they do as well as of the many psychological issues people face. For these reasons, I am very excited at the prospect of exploring and enrolling in the classes offered by USC’s Department of Psychology. In particular, Psych 360: Abnormal Psychology would be an amazing introduction to psychological disorders and their causes. Psych 314L: Research Methods would then help me put this knowledge about disorders to good use by teaching me how to properly conduct research and find possible solutions for people’s problems.

College transfer essays: an example

Here we go! Throughout this article, I’ve shown you my college essay divided into sections, and now’s time for the full thing. I can honestly say that this essay had a 100% success rate! Without further ado, here is my full college transfer essay (and prompt):

Prompt: Please provide a statement that addresses your reasons for transferring and the objectives you hope to achieve. 

I wake up from my daily after-school nap to realize that it is already dinner time. As I walk downstairs, I smell the delicious fragrance coming from my mom’s samgyetang (Korean ginseng chicken soup), one of my favorite meals. Soon enough, everyone sits down to watch the newest episode of Jeopardy , a tradition we’ve had going on for as long as I can remember. As I take that first sip of samgyetang, and miss yet another geography question on Jeopardy – and wait for my family to inevitably tease me about it – I feel at home, like I am somewhere that I belong. Wherever I go, I hope I can encounter that same warm feeling. Just like Jeopardy , Criminal Minds is also a show that I have watched from a very young age, and one that I continue to watch quite regularly. Being exposed to this interesting world of FBI profilers for so long inspired me to want to dive into the world of psychology myself. Due to this, I originally chose the University of Wisconsin, Madison for its amazing psychology program, and because I wanted to try something new. Being from California, this “something new” came in the form of watching snow fall from the sky, seeing cheese curds being sold in all the grocery stores, and simply living somewhere far away from home. Arriving in Wisconsin, I got exactly what I wanted: an amazing psychology program and the experience of being somewhere quite different from the place I called home. My classes were interesting, my professors were helpful and caring, and experiencing the first snow was quite exciting. However, as winter progressed, walking back from class everyday under the progressively gloomier sky seemed to be a cruel reminder that I was no longer in sunny Southern California. While eating dinner in our many dining halls, I always viewed the wide array of food available: quesadillas, Chinese food, burgers, even pecan pie. The food was all delicious, but going day after day without even seeing Korean food once, it made me miss those fun dinners with my family. Back at my dorm, my “home away from home,” it started to feel like anything but being at home. To feel more comfortable where I was, I decided to pursue things I liked, and that I was familiar with. My passion for psychology led me to join the university’s Psychology Club, where I was able to learn about recent revelations within the field of psychology, furthering my interest in the subject. I plan on using the knowledge I gain in psychology, either from organizations or classes, to help people. I want to one day apply this knowledge to research, to discover possible methods to help the people suffering from the psychological problems I study. Alternatively, I hope to use this knowledge as a criminal profiler, using my understanding of psychology to narrow down pools of suspects.  To be able to accomplish either of these, I need to develop a much deeper understanding of both people’s motivations for the things they do as well as of the many psychological issues people face. For these reasons, I am very excited at the prospect of exploring and enrolling in the classes offered by USC’s Department of Psychology. In particular, Psych 360: Abnormal Psychology would be an amazing introduction to psychological disorders and their causes. Psych 314L: Research Methods would then help me put this knowledge about disorders to good use by teaching me how to properly conduct research and find possible solutions for people’s problems. With so many opportunities available at USC, I hope to not only help others feel more comfortable, but to find a second home for myself after all.

And that’s it! This essay touches on all of the tips listed above, and should serve as helpful inspiration as you begin your writing. Hopefully, it gives you an idea of how to integrate everything you should mention in a cohesive essay. With that, I wish you good luck with your college transfer essays (and applications)!

Don’t miss: What looks good on a college application?

If you finish your essay and still have questions about the transfer process, consider checking out these Scholarships360 resources:

• How to transfer colleges
• How to transfer from a community college
• Top scholarships for transfer students
• How to choose a college
• What’s the difference between a private and public university?

Key Takeaways

• Explain why you want to transfer, what you need that you are not getting at your current school, and why you chose your current school to begin with
• Always present things in a positive light
• Share how the transfer school will help you achieve your goals and why you are a good fit for the school

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Frequently asked questions about writing college transfer essays 

How are college transfer essays different from regular application essays, do all schools require transfer essays, can i reuse my old college essays for a transfer, what should you not say in a transfer essay, scholarships360 recommended.

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Transfer Essays That Worked

The essays are a place to show us who you are and who you’ll be in our community.

As a transfer applicant, your essay is a chance to tell the admissions committee more about your background or goals and how you would pursue them at Hopkins. Below you’ll find selected examples of transfer applicant essays that “worked,” as nominated by our admissions committee.

These selections represent just a few essays we found impressive and helpful during the past admissions cycle. We hope these examples inspire you as you prepare to compose your own essay. The most important thing to remember is to be original as you share your own story, thoughts, and ideas with us.

Read essays that worked from first-year applicants .

Essays that worked.

Bedtime Stories

Summer Mai Li connects the personal stories of her loved ones to global civil and human rights issues that she intends to study during her time at Hopkins.

Becoming a Better Mathematician

Jorge’s essay provides the admissions committee with a detailed narrative about his lifelong interest in mathematics: how he discovered it, cultivated it, and pursued it to the highest level available.

Pursuing My Passion in Research

Through her transfer essay, Klaire showcases her deep interest in advancing scientific research through her experiences at her community college and her future at Hopkins.

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How to Write a Winning College Transfer Essay

December 27, 2021

Much like snowflakes, DNA profiles, or interpretations of a David Lynch film, no two college transfer applicants are alike. Even if two prospective transfers to Boston University are both named Fred and each hail from Farmington, CT, their paths, and the contours of their academic journeys are probably quite different from one another. Perhaps Fred #1 is a first-generation college student who, for financial reasons, had to complete his freshman year at the local community college. Perhaps Fred #2 underachieved a touch in high school, gained admission into a less-selective state school where he excelled freshman year and is now highly-motivated to study at top school. Each Fred possesses an equally valid story to tell the BU admissions office, and doing so adeptly may well be the key to their acceptance. After all, 42% of all U.S. colleges—and close to 100% of highly-selective schools—cite the essay as being “important” to their transfer application decisions.

To cite another relevant statistic, 37% of all college students transfer at some point in their academic career and each has a worthwhile pathway to chronicle. Whether you’re Fred #1, Fred #2, or someone not even named Fred (imagine that!), you need your transfer essay to be so strong that it leaps right off the page and captures the attention (or, even better, heart) of an admissions officer. In the following article, the College Transitions team will explain precisely how to master this essential component of the transfer application.

Which Transfer essay prompt should I pick?

Starting in 2020-21, the Common App granted its member institutions the option of allowing their transfer applicants to select one of the seven current Common App essay prompts (that are available to freshman applicants).

Some schools will offer you this option, while others will simply ask you the equivalent of “Why are you applying to our university?” If you are given the choice between prompts, it is generally best to select the one that is most broad (note: a broad prompt is good, a broad essay is not) and allows you to compose an essay containing the following essential elements:

• 1) Why your prospective transfer school is a perfect fit for you.
• 2) Why your journey has led you away from your current institution.
• 3) What unique attributes and talents you will bring to campus.
• 4) How your past achievements and efforts can bolster your case.
• 5) Share your academic and career ambitions.

Let’s dive in and take a more thorough look at each component, beginning with #1.

1) Why this college is the perfect fit for you

Share with your prospective new academic home exactly what makes them attractive to you. Smaller class size, a particular academic program, a more diverse environment, or the opportunity to for hands-on learning/research opportunities are just a sampling of the legitimate selling points you can cite. Mention specific courses that you are eager to take at their institution, certain distinguished professors who you desire to study under, and unique clubs, activities, or campus traditions in which you are excited to partake. Take advantage of this chance to impress admissions officers with you expansive knowledge of their institution as well as a highly-specific accounting of how you will take advantage of your 2-3 years there. Doing so will separate you from the pack of similarly-qualified transfer applicants.

2) Why you want to leave your current college

Make sure that the reasons that you communicate for wanting to transfer do not end up sounding like a nasty Yelp review of your present school. While you may want to leave College X because the professors are all centenarian windbags and your roommate is breeding capybaras to sell on Craigslist (is there really a market for that?), remember that the school to which you are applying wants to feel wanted. Think about it—would you rather listen to your girlfriend/boyfriend rant about their ex or hear them tell you what makes you awesome? Admissions officers considering a transfer student feel the same way.

3) What unique attributes you will bring to campus

Even in the transfer admissions process, admissions officers are tasked with enhancing the diversity of their undergraduate student body and adding individuals who are likely to be contributing members of the campus community. Is there a particular club that you are eager to join or do wish to start your own? Do you desire to assist a professor in conducting research? Are you an a cappella star or club volleyball diehard? What books do you read for pleasure? Do you have a hidden talent or area of expertise? Are you an introvert or extrovert (both can be selling points)? What ideas, activities, or dreams keep you up in the middle of the night? Give the admissions reader a full picture of what your life will look at their school and how you will make more of an impact (in any form) than many of your fellow applicants.

4) Talk about your academic and extracurricular record

This is also a perfect opportunity to demonstrate your record of involvement on your current campus. It is far easier to sell yourself as someone who will be a contributing member of the campus community if you displayed these qualities at your previous college. Students with an eye on transferring are sometimes so focused on escaping their first institution that they fail to become involved in anything outside of the classroom and thus miss out on valuable opportunities to demonstrate leadership and passion—the very traits needed to transfer to a prestigious school. Write about what you are most proud of—a challenging physics exam you mastered, a philosophy paper you wrote arguing the compatibility of science and religion, or how you started a campus chapter of an organization dedicated to fighting pancreatic cancer.

5) Share your academic and career ambitions

The more you can use your essay to communicate your genuine passions and what makes you tick, the better. Doing so gives your essay broader context and deeper meaning, as it explains the true significance of all of the info shared in steps #1-4. If you want to major in biology, where do you see that taking you down the road? Are you considering graduate or medical school? Do you want to work in research in a specific area? You don’t have to be 100% sure of your career and future academic path at 19 or 20 years old, but as a transfer student, you should share where your experiences and interests may someday take you.

College Transfer Essay – Do’s and Don’ts

• Make a coherent and well-researched case for why the school to which you are applying would be a perfect fit for you.
• Explain how you spend your time outside of school whether it’s participation in a club or sport, paid work, or a hobby to which you are extremely dedicated.
• Paint a picture of the reasons why this new university is the right place to pursue your academic interests.
• Give the committee a sense of your talents and character/personal qualities. If your school does not offer interviews, this essay will be primary vehicle through which you can forge a personal connection to a fellow human being.
• Bash your current school or overly-focus on the negative.
• Make excuses for past academic performance of lack of outside the classroom involvement.
• Say that you want to attend a new school for the prestige, the pretty campus, or for a personal reason (close to home, girl/boyfriend attends, etc.).
• Forget to do adequate research on your prospective academic home. Details matter!
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Andrew Belasco

A licensed counselor and published researcher, Andrew's experience in the field of college admissions and transition spans two decades. He has previously served as a high school counselor, consultant and author for Kaplan Test Prep, and advisor to U.S. Congress, reporting on issues related to college admissions and financial aid.

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How to Write a College Transfer Essay: All You Need to Know

By Eric Eng

Write a College Transfer Essay: All You Need to Know

Writing a college transfer essay can be a daunting process. For those wondering “How to write a college transfer essay,” not only do you need to express your desires and goals coherently, but you also need to convince the admissions officers that the transfer is the best decision for your academic future. Fear not, this comprehensive guide is here to help you make sense of it all and deliver a clear, compelling transfer essay.

Understanding the Purpose of a College Transfer Essay

The first step in writing a successful college transfer essay is understanding its purpose. Unlike your typical application essay, a transfer essay serves multiple purposes. Most importantly, it gives you a platform to explain why you want to transfer to a new college.

Transferring to a different college can be a significant decision, and it’s essential to convey your reasons effectively. Your transfer essay serves as a bridge between your current educational journey and your aspirations for the future. It allows you to articulate your motivations, goals, and how the new college aligns with your academic and personal growth.

The Role of a Transfer Essay in Your Application

Your transfer essay plays an indispensable role in your application. It supplements your academic records and test scores by giving admissions officers a deeper understanding of your motivations and aspirations. This is your chance to explain why the school should consider you and why you believe it’s the right fit for you.

When crafting your transfer essay, it’s crucial to showcase your self-awareness and maturity. Admissions officers want to see that you have carefully evaluated your current college experience and have valid reasons for seeking a transfer. Additionally, they are interested in understanding how the new college can provide you with the opportunities and resources you need to thrive academically and personally.

Key Elements Admissions Officers Look For

Admissions officers are keen to discern a few key elements in your transfer essay. One, they want to know why you’re looking to transfer. The reasons should be specific to academics, not generic or personal issues.

It’s essential to reflect on your current college experience and identify any limitations or gaps that have hindered your academic progress or personal growth. Perhaps your current college lacks certain courses or research opportunities that are vital to your academic interests. Or maybe you have discovered a new passion or career path that the new college specializes in. Whatever the reasons may be, it’s crucial to articulate them clearly and convincingly.

They are also interested in what you’ve achieved in your current college and how you aim to contribute to their campus community. Admissions officers want to see evidence of your engagement and involvement in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, or community service. Highlighting your accomplishments and demonstrating your potential to make a positive impact on the new college community can significantly strengthen your transfer essay.

Lastly, your future goals in relation to the prospective college’s offerings are crucial. Admissions officers want to understand how the new college can help you achieve your academic and career aspirations. Whether it’s through specialized programs, renowned faculty, or unique research opportunities, it’s important to showcase how the new college’s resources align with your goals and how you plan to make the most of them.

Preparing to Write Your Transfer Essay

Before you put pen to paper, you have to do some preliminary work, which is crucial in understanding how to write a college transfer essay. This includes determining why you want to move to a different college and researching your prospective college.

Self-Reflection: Identifying Your Reasons for Transferring

Identifying your reasons for transferring is a critical step. Reflect on your experiences in your current college. Work to distinguish the academic opportunities you felt were lacking that led to your decision. This exercise helps you construct a convincing case in your essay.

When reflecting on your reasons for transferring colleges , it’s important to consider both the academic and non-academic aspects of your college experience. Think about the courses you’ve taken and whether they align with your academic goals and interests. Are there any specific majors or programs that your current college doesn’t offer, but your prospective college does? Additionally, reflect on the social and cultural environment of your current college. Are you looking for a more diverse and inclusive community? Do you want to be closer to home or have access to certain extracurricular activities? These are all valid reasons for considering a transfer.

Furthermore, it’s essential to delve deeper into your personal growth and development during your time at your current college. Reflect on any challenges you’ve faced and how you’ve overcome them. Consider the relationships you’ve built with professors, classmates, and mentors. Have these relationships positively impacted your academic journey? Have you been able to engage in meaningful research, internships, or community service? By evaluating these aspects, you can better understand how your current college has shaped your aspirations and what you hope to gain from a transfer.

Researching Your Prospective College

Thorough research on your prospective college is a must. Gain an understanding of the curriculum, faculty, student life, and opportunities available. The more informed you are about the college, the better you can articulate why it’s the right fit for you.

Start by exploring the college’s website and familiarize yourself with the different academic departments and majors they offer. Look into the faculty profiles and see if any professors align with your research interests or have notable accomplishments in your field of study. Consider the college’s approach to education and whether it aligns with your learning style and goals. Are there any unique programs or initiatives that stand out to you?

Additionally, delve into the student life aspect of the college. Research the various clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities available. Are there any specific clubs or groups that align with your interests and passions? Consider the campus culture and the opportunities for personal and professional growth outside of the classroom. Are there internship or study abroad programs that intrigue you?

Furthermore, it’s crucial to gain insights from current students or alumni of the prospective college. Reach out to them through social media or online forums to ask questions about their experiences. Attend virtual information sessions or college fairs to interact with admissions representatives and get a better sense of the college’s community.

By conducting thorough research, you will not only gather valuable information about the college but also demonstrate your genuine interest and commitment in your transfer essay. This knowledge will allow you to highlight specific aspects of the college that resonate with your academic and personal goals, making your essay more compelling and persuasive.

Structuring Your College Transfer Essay

Now that you’ve done your groundwork, it’s time to write the essay. A well-structured essay usually has an engaging introduction, well-outlined body paragraphs, and a strong conclusion. However, there are additional aspects to consider when crafting your college transfer essay that can make it even more compelling and impactful.

Crafting an Engaging Introduction

Your introduction should be engaging and set the tone for the rest of your essay. While it is important to immediately address your intention to transfer and give a brief hint on why, you can also consider adding a personal anecdote or a captivating story that highlights your journey and the challenges you have faced. This will not only grab the reader’s attention but also create a connection between you and the admissions committee.

Furthermore, you can incorporate relevant statistics or research findings about the benefits of transferring to colleges. This can help support your decision and provide a solid foundation for your essay. By including these additional details, you demonstrate your dedication to thorough research and showcase your ability to make informed decisions.

Outlining Your Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs provide a detailed explanation of your reasons for transferring, your academic achievements, and how you can contribute to the new college community. While it’s advisable to have a paragraph for each point to maximize clarity, you can also enhance your essay by including specific examples and experiences that illustrate your reasons for transferring.

For instance, instead of simply stating that you want to transfer to a college with a stronger program in your major, you can share a story about how you discovered your passion for that field and how your current college lacks the resources or opportunities to fully nurture that passion. By providing concrete examples, you not only make your essay more engaging but also demonstrate your ability to reflect on your experiences and make informed decisions about your academic journey.

Writing a Strong Conclusion

A strong conclusion does more than repeat the essay’s main points. While it is important to summarize your reasons for transferring and reiterate your future goals, you can also consider expanding on the prospective college’s role in achieving these objectives.

By researching specific programs, clubs, or initiatives offered by the college, you can demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment to making the most of your transfer experience. Additionally, you can discuss how the college’s values align with your own and how you envision contributing to the campus community. This not only shows your genuine interest in the college but also highlights your potential as a valuable addition to their student body.

In conclusion, by incorporating personal anecdotes, research findings, specific examples, and a discussion of the prospective college’s offerings, you can expand and enrich your college transfer essay. These additional details will not only make your essay longer but also make it more compelling, memorable, and persuasive. Remember to revise and edit your essay thoroughly to ensure that it flows smoothly and effectively communicates your reasons for transferring and your aspirations for the future.

Essential Tips for Writing a Successful Transfer Essay

Writing a transfer essay can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can create a compelling narrative that showcases your unique qualities and reasons for seeking a new academic environment. In this article, we will delve into some valuable tips that can enhance the quality of your transfer essay, helping you stand out among other applicants.

Highlighting Your Academic Achievements

One crucial aspect of a transfer essay is highlighting your academic achievements in your current college. Don’t shy away from flaunting your accomplishments, such as high grades, research projects, or any other notable academic endeavors. By doing so, you’re not only showcasing your abilities but also demonstrating to the admissions officers that you can excel in their learning environment too.

Additionally, it is essential to provide context for your achievements. Explain the challenges you faced, the skills you developed, and the impact these achievements had on your personal growth. This will give the admissions officers a deeper understanding of your academic journey and the dedication you bring to your studies.

Discussing Your Future Goals

Articulating your future goals is another crucial aspect of a transfer essay. By sharing your aspirations, you show that you have a clear direction and purpose in seeking a new academic setting. Be sure to link these goals with the curriculum and opportunities that the prospective college affords. Research the specific programs, courses, or extracurricular activities that align with your interests and explain how they will contribute to your personal and professional development.

Moreover, it is important to demonstrate how your current college has prepared you for these future goals and how transferring to the new institution will provide you with additional resources, experiences, or mentorship that will further enhance your journey toward achieving them.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Transfer Essays

While writing your transfer essay, it is crucial to avoid common pitfalls that can diminish its impact. One common mistake is focusing on criticizing your current college. Instead, focus on the positive aspects that are driving you to transfer. Highlight the opportunities you seek, the academic environment you desire, or the specific resources that the prospective college offers.

Another pitfall to avoid is being vague about your reasons for transferring. Be specific and honest about why you believe the new institution is a better fit for your academic and personal growth. Explain how the new college aligns with your values, interests, and ambitions, and how it can provide you with the support and opportunities you need to thrive.

Lastly, ensure that your transfer essay reflects your authentic voice and personality. Admissions officers are looking for students who will contribute to the campus community, so let your true self shine through your writing. Share personal anecdotes, experiences, or challenges that have shaped your academic journey and demonstrate how these experiences have prepared you for the next chapter in your education.

By following these essential tips, you can craft a transfer essay that not only showcases your achievements and goals but also highlights your unique qualities and potential contributions to the new academic environment. Remember to proofread your essay carefully, seek feedback from trusted individuals, and submit your application with confidence.

Editing and Polishing Your Transfer Essay

Once your draft is complete, it’s time to edit and polish your essay. This process helps you enhance clarity, correct errors, and bring out a well-structured piece.

Proofreading for Grammar and Spelling Errors

Proofread your essay carefully to correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. These mistakes could distract the reader and undermine your credibility.

Ensuring Clarity and Coherence

Ensuring your essay is coherent and clear is important. The flow of thoughts should be logical, and each paragraph should reinforce your central argument.

Seeking Feedback and Making Revisions

Don’t underestimate the power of a second pair of eyes. Seek feedback from teachers, friends, or family and make necessary revisions to elevate your essay.

In conclusion, writing a college transfer essay requires thorough preparation, clear communication, and an eye for detail. With these tips in hand, you’re ready to write an outstanding transfer essay. Good luck!

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How to Write a College Transfer Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 4/24/24

If you’re considering switching colleges and want to learn how to write a college transfer essay, read on.

There are multiple reasons to transfer colleges: you weren’t able to get into your top choice in your first round of applications, you want to change your major , or maybe you just have the world’s worst roommate. 

Whatever your reason may be, you should know the transfer process can be lengthy and will differ from your original college applications. For instance, now that you’ve completed some postsecondary education, your undergrad grades will be considered more than your high school GPA. 

Additionally, you’ll have to write a college transfer essay to introduce yourself to the committee and explain why you’d like to join their school. This essay tends to be the hardest part of transfer applications. 

If you’re unsure of where to begin or how to write a successful college transfer essay, this guide has got you covered!

How to Write a College Transfer Essay

Here is a breakdown of how to write an impressive college transfer essay.:

How to Start the Transfer Essay

Your introduction is arguably the most important part of your essay because it’s the first paragraph the committee will read. Accordingly, it has to be intriguing enough to urge them to continue reading. 

Many students start their essays with a statement or story related to their reason for transferring. A safe way to begin your essay is to share a specific principle you have about education that is rooted in an authentic experience.

Maybe you’ve always valued hands-on learning and have a famous story about taking apart your dad’s favorite replica aircraft and putting it back together to learn how it works.

Or, maybe you had a sick relative whose experience in and out of the hospital made you appreciate scientific experimentation and discovery, leading you to pursue medicine at a research-intensive school. 

Regardless of your educational principles, ensure you use a memorable experience to share it. Immerse the readers into your narrative so they feel more connected to you and your words! Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing your introduction:

Reconsider Using Famous Quotes 

While there have been successful college transfer essays that used quotes as their opening line, you should avoid overused quotes. If you’re beginning your essay with the phrase “knowledge is power,” it’s time to revisit your list of motivational quotes. 

If you’re set on opening your essay with a quote, choose one the committee hasn’t heard before and think outside the box! You could choose a quote from your favorite book, a show, or a movie. An even better way to ensure you use a unique opening is to quote a family member or friend! 

Maybe your mother always told you to stand up for yourself and that “if someone hits you, you hit them right back!” This seemingly unrelated quote could be used to explain how you’ve always been your biggest self-advocate and fight hard to have what you want, including a high-quality education. 

Forget the Theatrics

You don’t have to choose a story with a nail-biting hook or dramatic ending. Your story doesn’t need to involve a near-death epitome, a tragic loss, or a heroic save. Keep it simple! 

By that same token, don’t use exaggerated or false stories just to prove a point. The admissions committee will see through this and will dock you points for being ingenuine. 

Explain Why You Chose Your Current School

Once you’ve written an attention-grabbing introduction, the next step is to explain why you chose your current school. Perhaps the school boasted its Socratic teaching method that allows students to take charge of their education. Or, it offered a program of specific interest to you. Maybe you chose it simply because it’s one of the top colleges to transfer to .  

Regardless of your reasons, you must include them in your essay to explain how your expectations were not met. This part should be fact-focused. Be succinct and list the reasons you chose your current school over others.

Explain the Reasons You Want to Transfer

Once you’ve recounted the reasons you chose your current school, think about the reasons you decided to leave it. A large part of learning the art of essay writing is knowing what not to say! While you want to remain honest, your answer should revolve around the education you received at your school.

Here are some questions to ask yourself as you write this part of your essay:

• Did your program/institution live up to all of your expectations?
• Did you receive the education and support you hoped for?
• Were there enough opportunities for intellectual, personal, and professional growth?
• Are you closer to achieving your career goals after attending your current school?
• What’s missing from your education? What makes you hesitant to stay at your current school?
• Have your career plans changed? Can your current school offer you the resources you need to pursue this new path?

Even if you’re transferring because your roommate never washes the dishes or you’re trying to escape a clingy ex, the admissions committee won’t be interested or amused by these reasons. 

Focus on the positives of your school but explain how they fell short. Perhaps the Socratic teaching method you hoped for fell short of equal dialogue and was more of a typical lecture. Maybe you had a eureka moment in an elective that made you want to switch to a program your current school doesn’t offer.

On the other hand, your current school may have already fulfilled the role it was meant to play. For instance, you may have chosen your current school to stay close to home and care for a sick family member or to take general courses to boost your GPA. 

Explain how these goals were fulfilled and how you’d like to move on to the next stage of your education. No matter what your reasons for transferring are, you’ll need to provide concrete examples to support your claims. Share specific experiences that led to your decision to transfer schools.

This part of your college transfer essay can be tricky. You’ll want to provide concrete examples of how your current school fails to meet your expectations without badmouthing it. To find this balance, avoid making these mistakes:

Placing Blame

Don’t blame your current school for failing to meet your expectations. 

Explaining how the professors were monotonous robots with no enthusiasm for teaching or that the class sizes were far too big to feel connected to your mentors will make you seem too critical. 

You want to phrase your issues in a way that still sheds a positive light on their curriculum and community. In essence, you want to follow a “it’s not you, it’s me” type of explanation! You should explain how your current university offers great resources but not the best ones for your personal aspirations. 

Throwing In the Towel

You should also mention the ways you tried to make the best of your situation at your current school. Even though you ultimately realized your school couldn’t offer you the education or resources you need, you should demonstrate your determination to make it work. 

If your main issue was the lack of connection between you and your professors, you could share how you attended office hours regularly to have more one-on-one conversations. Demonstrate you tried to remedy your issues before deciding to transfer. This will show maturity, perseverance, and adaptability!

Explain Your Academic and Career Goals

This next part of your essay should be tied to what you’ve said previously. Think about your academic goals and what your plans are for the future. 

Here are some questions to guide this part of your essay:

• Where do you hope your education takes you? 
• What will your education be used for? 
• What grades do you hope to receive? 
• What program will help you achieve your career goals?
• What kind of mentors do you believe will help you achieve your academic and career goals?
• What school-based extracurriculars will aid you in your aspirations?

Use these questions to figure out what your specific academic and career goals are. 

Explain Why You Want to Attend the Transfer College

Using the ideas you brainstormed from the previous sections, you want to focus your attention on explaining how your academic and career goals will be best met through your transfer college. 

Research your transfer college well and provide specific reasons explaining why you want to attend. Go deeper than simply retelling the school’s main values, and explain why you’re choosing it in detail. 

Focus on the type of education it provides, the school community and environment, and unique educational offerings, such as a particular program, teaching method, or experiential learning opportunities.

This part of your essay should be tailored specifically to your transfer college. If you can plug in any college name and use the same essay, you’ll need to add more details and continue working on it. 

Take Responsibility for Any Hiccups

Another factor to consider is taking responsibility for any shortcomings. If you’re transferring colleges and have low grades or otherwise unfavorable aspects on your application, you should hold yourself accountable in your essay.

Do not blame your current school for your low grades. Even if you had a poor experience that made it difficult to excel, your grades are ultimately your responsibility. Explain how you will improve in your transfer school and the steps you’ve taken to become a stronger student. 

Focus on Reflection

Your college transfer essay is essentially a reflection on your university experience and goals. This helps narrow things down and ensure you don’t choose a taboo essay topic . Just keep it simple and truthful by sharing your academic journey and why it’s brought you to where you are today.

As important as it is to share your next steps and eagerness to join your transfer school, it’s equally as important to reflect on the present and past. 

You should reflect on your own educational principles, your reasons for attending your current school, the ups and downs that influenced you to transfer, and finally, how your transfer school will assist you in the next stage of your educational journey.

Keep It Casual

Your transfer statement isn’t your typical structured, formal three-body paragraph essay. Keep it casual, and don’t be afraid to use contractions or more colloquial language. 

While you, of course, want to avoid using slang or distasteful language, you should let your personality shine through and give your essay a more conversational feel. 

The admissions committee should feel like they’re getting to know more about your essence and values, not just your impeccable writing skills—although those are essential to demonstrate too!

Have Clear Intentions

Admissions committees will appreciate if you can demonstrate clear direction and intention in your essay. Provide specific examples of what you need your university to provide to help you reach your goals and how these needs are not being met currently.

Demonstrate Your Growth

Your university experience should offer you more insight and perspective on education. Share this perspective in your essay and prove you are a mature and insightful student. 

A good indicator of maturity is speaking positively about your current school despite its limitations. You should portray both an eagerness to pursue other options and an appreciation for your current university. In other words, you should prove that while your current school isn’t the best fit for you, it’s still an excellent school!

Make it Personal

We’ve said it multiple times, and we’re saying it one last time in hopes you won’t forget. Use as many concrete examples as you can throughout your essay. Do not rely on any vague aspirations or reasons for transferring. 

Go deeper than simply wanting a higher quality education! What made your current school’s education unsatisfactory? What experiences led to the conclusion that you needed more? How can your transfer school fill in this gap? 

Keep in mind that this advice also applies to a transfer applicant’s personal statement. The overall goal is to be as genuine as possible while staying true to your goal - communicating your desire to attend the college. 

Edit Multiple Times

You may have great ideas and an excellent story to tell in your essay, but having poor grammar or spelling errors will reduce your essay’s effectiveness.

Ensure you edit your essay multiple times before submitting it. Take time between your editing sessions so you can look at it with fresh eyes each time. You’re more likely to catch errors this way!

How to Conclude the Transfer Essay

Overlooking the conclusion of your essay can make what would be an amazing essay a good essay. Considering schools are highly selective with transfer applications , especially Ivy League schools , a good essay is unlikely to win you any points with the admissions committee. 

Imagine your essay as a circle. To complete the circle, your final paragraph should reiterate the themes and principles mentioned in your introduction. Revisit the story you shared and reflect on the educational principle that guided your essay. 

Briefly reiterate what type of education you could receive at your current school—a great but ultimately unsuitable one—and mention the better-suited education you’d receive at your transfer school. 

The final conclusion in an essay for transfer students should be short, sweet, and straightforward. It should not:

Leave the Readers Wanting More

There should be no cliffhangers in your essay. You aren’t writing a novel with a sequel; this essay is all the admissions committee will receive, so you want it to paint a comprehensive and complete picture of yourself.

Introduce New Information

Don’t use your conclusion to throw in any afterthoughts you had while revising your essay. You’ll have a lot of ideas for what to include in your essay, but you shouldn’t try to fit all of them into such a limited space. 

Make Promises

Don’t try to convince the admissions committee to accept you into their programs by making bogus promises. You don’t need to promise them you’ll be a stellar student at the top of your classes or that you’ll make great contributions to their school community. 

There should be no ultimatums in your essay! If you find yourself writing a sentence along the lines of “If you accept me into your school, I promise to…”, dial it back and refocus your conclusion. 

Mistakes to Avoid in Your College Transfer Essay

When crafting your college transfer essay, it's essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that can hinder your chances of acceptance. This is especially important in writing effective transfer essays for Ivy League schools that are looking for the best of the best.

Clarity Is Key

Make sure your essay is crystal clear in explaining your reasons for transferring and what you hope to achieve at your prospective new college. Avoid vague or overly broad statements that might leave the admissions committee perplexed about your motivations.

Emphasize Positivity

Another crucial mistake to avoid is adopting a negative tone throughout your essay. While acknowledging your reasons for transferring is important, dwelling solely on the negative aspects of your current college experience can be off-putting. Instead, emphasize your desire for fresh opportunities and personal growth.

Tailor Your Essay

One-size-fits-all essays are also to be avoided. When you look at an 

sample of a transfer statement or an essay that’s been successful, you’ll notice that it’s not generic. So, do your best to tailor your essay to the specific college you're applying to, highlighting what makes that institution the right fit for your educational goals. 

Focus on Aspirations

Additionally, resist the urge to place blame on your current college, professors, or classmates for your decision to transfer. Focus on your aspirations and what you hope to achieve at the new college.

Stay Realistic

Be realistic in your expectations; avoid making it sound like the new college is a magical solution to all your academic or personal challenges. Keep your essay concise and within the prescribed word limit, as admissions officers have many essays to review.

Thorough Research Matters

Thoroughly research the new college and mention specific programs, professors, or resources that align with your goals. Grammatical errors and spelling mistakes can detract from your essay's impact, so proofread it carefully.

Highlight Personal Growth

Lastly, don't forget to showcase personal growth and the lessons you've learned from your current college experience. Admissions officers appreciate applicants who demonstrate self-awareness and a commitment to growth.

Hopefully this breakdown has inspired you to write your own memorable essay.

College Transfer Essay Example

Understanding the steps to write a college transfer essay and what to avoid is a great place to start, but you might still be struggling to visualize what an excellent transfer essay looks like. Take a look at these examples of transfer essays to get started.  

Essay Example #1

Here is a successful college transfer essay example that got a student into Duke University—a school with a transfer acceptance rate ranging from 3% to 7% in the past five years.

“A goal without a plan is just a wish, and I don't consider myself to be a wishful thinker, but a person of practical approach. And so, when I began my freshman year of college, Louisiana State University was strategically the best available option. 

LSU offered the scholarships I needed, including the statewide TOPS program which, at the time, guaranteed the price of tuition for anyone with an ACT score of twenty-seven or above. 

Additionally, LSU had no cap on early credit, which allowed me to put to use the seventy-four hours I had amassed in high school towards pursuing majors in political science, economics, and French with an Arabic minor.

However, I didn't know the hindrances I would face at LSU in pursuit of my chosen career path until I was plugging into the campus community, at which point I found a number of pragmatic reasons that LSU is no longer appropriate for the goals towards which I am working.

The obstacles began to arise when I finally honed my interests. I distinctly remember change brewing as I sat in my biweekly social contract seminar listening to my professor discuss the paper he was working on, in which he aimed to tie human prosociality to neuroplasticity, all of which, he argued, would undermine Hobbes’ social contract theory.

That’s what I wanted – not the subject matter, but the principle. I wanted the attempt; I wanted to learn and to theorize and even to be wrong sometimes. I wanted to translate my interdisciplinary interests in political and economic theory into applicable policy.

Given my passion for writing and discussion, sharing theories and findings with colleagues and inspiring students, too, was ideal. And so, I finally knew I wanted to be a professor of public policy.

Sadly, LSU did not have a public policy program, and so I defaulted to political science. However, the political science department is inherently theory-based rather than policy-oriented. From studying the public policy curricula of other universities, I know that a public policy program is more suited to my own interest in applications of governance.

Undeterred by this initial setback and eager to begin my journey in the world of academia, I immediately sought research opportunities, but I quickly learned that they weren’t easily accessible.

Upon meeting with counsellors, I was told I would have to find professors to work with on my own, as there was no designated undergraduate research database or protocol. 

This in itself was another stark concern as I need a university in which conducting research is an integral part of the collegiate experience as it is a necessity in my education and preparation for the future. 

Though I have contacted professors, happy to take any experience I can get, I have found that most positions are reserved for upperclassmen and are primarily data entry oriented. 

Also, the lack of a public policy program has meant that the available work I have found does not meet the particular needs of the future policy-oriented research in which I hope to engage.

Though I know I could do well at LSU and receive an amazing education, staying at the university would mean, at best, having to overcome serious curricular deficits in achieving my goals or, at worst, having to change my plans altogether. 

And so, I have resolved to transfer in an effort to give myself the best possible opportunity to prepare for and succeed in my future.” 

Why This Essay Works

Like the Duke admissions committee, you were likely impressed by this essay! To ensure you know exactly what to include in your own essay, here are the aspects that make this Duke-approved essay successful:

Its Interesting Opening

This student uses their own quote to open their essay. As simple as their introduction is, it gets the point across and intrigues the reader to learn more. 

Right off the bat it also proves this student has a sense of direction; they have plans that they are determined to fulfill. This not only shows ambition but proves to the admission committee this student has actually put thought into their choice to transfer.

Its Use of Concrete Examples

The student recounts the exact moment they realized their current school did not offer the resources they needed to succeed. This personal story makes the essay more authentic and immerses the readers into their life and thought process.

Its Positive Outlook

While the student lists all the reasons for their transfer, namely that their current school does not offer the right program and that it has limited research opportunities, they remain positive throughout.

They still praise their current school for its excellent scholarship program, early credit approval, and thought-provoking lectures, but contend they require more to reach their goals.

This student also demonstrates their willingness to persevere and make the best of their situation by searching for research opportunities and joining the next best program available. Yet, despite their efforts, they decided a transfer was in their best interests. These traits, perseverance and self-awareness, are key to a great transfer essay!

Its Effective Conclusion

This essay proves your conclusion doesn’t have to be elaborate to work. This student’s conclusion reiterates their opinions on their current school, that it is great but not perfect, and states their opinions on their transfer school, that it can offer them the most opportunity. It is simple yet highly effective!

Essay Example #2

Take a look at this second transfer essay example . It was provided by Miami Dade College, which also has a collection of successful examples of personal statements for transfer applicants to refer to. 

Though the school this particular essay example was written for is unknown, it was indeed a successful essay and has much to offer. 

“On a dark and breezy night after a hurricane sped through town, a tall little girl sat on her great-aunt’s porch in Santa Clara and stared at the stars she had never before seen. They’re so bright, she thought in awe. 

They seemed so near, she might be able to reach out to the ashy vastness and grab one, maybe put it under her pillow to brighten her dreams. With eyes wide open, she listened to her momma tell stories of men with belts, and twin sisters, and brother bears, such fantastical worlds that made more sense than her own.

 A crooked smile adorned her chubby face as she sat on her momma’s lap amidst the laziness of a late summer weeknight. Her warm, mud pie eyes seemed to be too big for her little face every time they opened with wonder or grew with curiosity. The light that would shine from within them was something to behold. 

The way she would perk up at the mention of an adventure or a possible journey was almost comical. She was such an expressive child it felt almost as if you were watching a miniaturized adult. Sometimes, she would place her awkwardly big hands on her little hips and furrow her dark eyebrows as she reprimanded her dog for chewing apart her favorite Reptar quilt. 

A brave little thing she was, that charcoal-haired girl. She walked across the river before the others, making up a little trail on the rocks as she went so they weren’t scared. She challenged the fastest runner in third grade to a race; even though she lost, all the girls in fifth grade suddenly wanted to become her best friend. 

She wasn’t popular, but people knew her as the one who they could talk to. She wasn’t wise or all-knowing, but she always had something to say. She was an odd child, if not strange. 

She was quite tranquil, she never really cried when she fell from her bicycle. Instead of playing house, she played librarian. Instead of drawing pink flowers and blue skies, she would write her momma letters. 

Defining her was as difficult of a task as separating the different flavors of a melted Napolitano ice cream on a sticky Sunday afternoon. Yes, she was simple, but she had these moments where she would take the ordinary out of the world and make you forget there was something rather bland about everyday life. 

As that little girl grew older, she reminded herself of who she was, and promised never to forget. She vowed to remember how she grew up and reaffirm her belief in herself. She grew quickly, almost skipping through the teenage years like a child would through a hopscotch game. 

It happened so fast, it was almost impossible to distinguish at one point she was a little girl with a big dream, and when she turned into a woman with great hopes for her future.”

It’s clear why this essay was a success. Keep reading to learn why it resonated with the admissions committee. 

Compelling Storytelling

This essay begins with a captivating story set against the backdrop of a hurricane. It describes a young girl sitting on her great-aunt's porch, gazing at the stars with awe. This vivid imagery immediately draws the reader into the narrative, making it easy to picture the scene and the girl's sense of wonder.

Emotional Connection 

As the story unfolds, the reader is not just told about the girl's experiences but is made to feel them. We witness her curiosity, her bold challenges (like racing the fastest runner in her class), and her unique quirks (such as playing librarian and writing letters instead of drawing). This emotional connection helps us relate to the girl and understand her character.

Smooth Transition and Reflection

The essay smoothly transitions from describing the girl's childhood to her growth into a young woman. It skillfully highlights her commitment to maintaining her sense of self and personal growth. This transition bridges her past experiences with her future aspirations, making her transfer to a new college a natural and logical step in her journey.

Symbolism and Metaphor

The use of symbolism and metaphor enhances the essay's impact. The comparison of the girl's personality to "melted Napolitano ice cream on a sticky Sunday afternoon" vividly conveys her complexity. It suggests that she can transform ordinary situations into something extraordinary, hinting at her potential contributions to a new academic environment.

Resonance and Promise

The essay closes on a reflective note, emphasizing the girl's promise to remember her roots and her rapid transformation into adulthood. 

This conclusion creates a sense of resonance with the reader, leaving a lasting impression of her character and determination. It implies that she is ready for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead in her college journey.

Hopefully, these samples of transfer essays have inspired you. To learn more, check out these other transfer essay examples .  

FAQs: Writing a College Transfer Essay

We’ve provided an in-depth tutorial on writing a college transfer essay that’ll impress the admissions committee and get you into your dream school. For any remaining questions, read on to find your answers.

1. How Do You Start a College Transfer Essay?

The best way to start a college transfer essay is by sharing a memorable experience that either influenced your decision to change schools or is integral to your perspective on education. 

2. How Long Should My Transfer Essay Be?

The exact length of your transfer essay will depend on the university you are applying to. However, these essays are typically around one to two pages long. 

3. How Do You Write a Short Transfer Essay?

Some universities will ask that your transfer essays do not exceed one page or around 250 words. In this case, it’s essential you still include all the necessary information listed in this guide but do so in a succinct way. Here are some general tips to make sure your short transfer essay still packs a punch:

• During the brainstorming process, separate all the great ideas from the excellent ones; only use the excellent ideas
• Share only one concrete experience that influenced you to transfer colleges
• Keep your introduction and conclusion short, preferably only a few sentences each
• Use simple, straightforward language and avoid overly flowery language that takes up valuable space 
• Focus on the big reasons you want to attend your transfer college, leave smaller perks out

While it may seem counterproductive, you should write your first rough draft without paying attention to the word count. If you worry too much about staying within the limits, you may leave out important ideas or overthink your narrative.

Once you’ve written out a good rough draft, spend time revising and cutting down to meet the requirements. This way, you’ll have all of your ideas written out and can pick the best ones.

4. What Should You Not Write in a Transfer Essay?

You should avoid the following in your college transfer essay:

• Overused or generic quotes
• Badmouthing your current school
• Blaming your current school for its inability to meet your expectations
• Exaggerated stories
• Vague reasons for your transfer
• Generic reasons to join your transfer school
• A conclusion that leaves the readers with more questions 

You should avoid making any grammatical, syntax, or spelling errors in your essay, as doing so will make it less effective. Also, keep in mind that using the same college essay for your transfer application is not a good idea. It may make you appear insincere and not fully engaged in your new academic path.

5. How Important Are Transfer Essays?

Your transfer essay isn’t the only application material the admissions committee will consider. However, it can play a large role in their selection process. In a recent survey, it was found that almost half of all participating colleges stated the transfer essay has considerable or moderate importance.

Hence, it’s essential you spend an adequate amount of time perfecting your essay to ensure it helps rather than harms your chances of acceptance. 

6. How Do You End a College Transfer Essay?

You should end your college transfer essay by revisiting the principle, experience, or statement you used in your introduction. Reiterate this sentiment and expand on it after sharing your experience with your current university and the experience you hope to have at your desired school.

Keep your conclusion brief and avoid making any promises to the admissions committee or including new information that would require further explanation. 

7. Are College Transfer Essays the Same as Personal Statements?

No, you’ll write personal statements during your first round of applications. These statements are more open-ended and broad than college transfer essays. They simply give the admissions committee more insight into who you are. 

Students may choose to write more about their academics, extracurriculars, or life experiences that influenced them to pursue a certain career path. The main purpose of your transfer essay is to explain why you’re switching schools. 

Final Thoughts

Don’t underestimate the power of your words! Understanding how to write a college transfer essay can be a game changer. A strong college transfer essay can convince the admissions committee you’re a mature, determined, and ambitious student who would make a great addition to their university.

Follow the tips and strategies shared in this guide to ensure you write a memorable and winning college transfer essay! 

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5 Tips for Writing a Great College Transfer Essay

Reviewed by Jacob Imm

Nov 19, 2021

5 Tips to Write a Great College Transfer Essay

Starting college is a once in-a-lifetime experience—well, for some people. For others, the first college they attend may not be the right fit. That’s why most schools give students the option to transfer.

Transferring schools, whether you transfer from community college or another institution, is a lot like the initial college application process. You’ll need to provide your college transcript or college report, letters of recommendation, ask whether your college credits transfer , and write a transfer essay.

There are a few key points you’ll want to hit when writing your college transfer essay. 

In this article, we’ll discuss the required content a transfer student should expect to include in their essay, along with a few tips and tricks to help seal the deal. Remember that every school is different, so be sure to check your prospective new school’s website for details on what your essay should include. For now, read on to find out what you need to know about writing your college transfer essay.

Tip #1 – Be Yourself

It may sound cheesy, but it’s true: being yourself is crucial to writing a successful college transfer essay.

More specifically, it’s important to allow your voice and personality to shine through when writing your transfer essay. Colleges get thousands of local and international applicants each year— both first-year and prospective transfer students. To stand out from the crowd, you’ll want to make sure your transfer essay is uniquely yours . 

In addition to being honest and using your unique voice, you’ll also want to hit a few key points when writing your personal statement or transfer essay.

• Your core values 

What are your unwavering beliefs? How do you view the world? What is important to you in this life? These are some high level concepts that you may not actively think about on a daily basis, but they define you  on a deeper level. By touching on these points, you’ll paint a more vivid picture of who you are and what you stand for. This will also help your personal statement stand out from the run-of-the-mill format that many others may follow.

• Your background 

Your background has shaped who you are today, and colleges want to understand where you’re coming from. Include any important details about your identity, your community, your family and your home that you think may add to the story you’re telling. 

• Previous college experience 

Part of your background information should also include the time you spent at your previous college. While there may be reasons you want to leave, it’s also crucial to include any meaningful experiences you’ve had and how they’ve shaped you and your college experience. Never paint your current school in a negative light; focus on what you’ve learned while you’ve been there--more about this to come.

• What you want 

After you’ve shared your experiences at college, it’s time to talk about what you want out of your new school. This will help the university determine whether they can provide the educational experience you’re seeking.

Don’t settle for the average essay. Be specific, draw from your real life, and don’t be afraid to use humor and creative language when appropriate. Try your best to convey who you are through your writing—especially if your prospective school doesn’t conduct in-person interviews. 

Tip #2 – Your Educational Journey

While it’s important to avoid talking badly about your current school, there is a way to discuss your reasons for leaving in a positive light. Include why you’re looking to transfer in your essay, but try to place a greater focus on what you want rather than what you’re trying to get away from. 

This would be a great time to mention:

• Your interests 

Start by explaining which program you’re interested in and why you’re interested in it. Make a note of any specific classes or resources that you believe would help prepare you for your future career. Add any extracurricular activities that relate to your educational experience, as well. 

• Your future 

Speaking of your future career, this is the time to outline your professional goals and ambitions. Believe it: your new school wants to admit prospective students with a plan, and outlining ambitious (but achievable) goals is the perfect way to prove you’re prepared.

• Changes 

It’s also crucial to talk about how your goals have changed over time. Obviously, you’ve changed paths for one reason or another, so take this time to explain what motivated your change of heart.

• Defend your decision 

Now, this doesn’t mean you should be defensive , but you should be able to explain why you believe this new path is right for you. Use this section to prove that you’re committed to this change and ready to get started. 

• Talk up your potential new  school 

There must be reasons why you’ve chosen the school you’re applying for. Take some time to discuss what you like about this new school, and be prepared to mention specifics in order to show you’ve done your research.

• Why you chose your current school 

If you’re discussing the reasons you’d like to transfer, it may also be helpful to talk about why you chose your current school. This will give your new institution a better understanding of who you are, who you were, and who you’re looking to become.

Tip #3 – Sell Them on You

If there’s any place where a little humble bragging is allowed, it’s a college essay. Don’t be afraid to explain what makes you a great student and why the college should choose you over other applicants--that’s what the reader wants to know. For this portion of the essay, try including the following information:

• Any academic or personal achievements related to your field of study
• Your GPA (if it’s high, and if it’s not, display how it’s improved or your goals for getting it higher)
• Any challenges that you’ve overcome during college, and how you’ve grown from them
• What makes you a good student, both in class and outside of class, and how you’ll make your new college a better place

At the end of the day, this essay should make you look like a prime candidate. While it’s important to be honest about any challenges you’ve faced at your current college, the focus of your essay will need to be your positive qualities as a desirable student. Don’t be afraid to give yourself some credit here!

Tip #4 – Explain How You’ve Made the Most of Your Current Situation

Colleges don’t want to read an essay that’s filled with complaints. While your previous school may not have been a good match, this is an opportunity to show your future school what a resilient, flexible, and hardworking student you are. 

Here, you’ll want to display the following points:

• Show how you’ve made things work 

Tell the story of how you’ve managed to make your current situation work for you. Even if the program you’ve been enrolled in isn’t the right fit for your future career, there may be ways to prove that you embraced your classes and resources with open arms. Use this opportunity to show just how dedicated you are to your education, even when things aren’t perfect.

• Prove you can put in the work

Next, you’ll want to outline the work you’ve put in to intellectually stimulate yourself, despite wanting a change. This may include an extra college course or two that you took, any outside research you’ve conducted, or any professional experience you’ve gained outside of school.

• Explain how you influenced your surroundings

So your situation wasn’t ideal. Did you do anything to change your surroundings to better fit your needs? In this portion of your essay, you’ll want to detail any clubs, organizations, or projects you’ve joined or started to progress your education and growth—particularly if your school didn’t have one before. This show’s you’re a dedicated go-getter who knows how to make positive changes in your community.

Tip #5 – Don’t Be Afraid to Flatter Them

While your transfer essay shouldn’t be 10straight pages of you gushing about the university, adding some flattering points never hurts. Your prospective school obviously won’t be choosing applicants based on who is the most complimentary, but incorporating a little praise will show how excited and committed you are. 

Consider touching on the following topics:

• Any programs and clubs that interest you
• How the school is going to help you achieve your dreams
• Any notable alumni or staff you look up to
• Resources the school provides that you’re excited about

Adding a few specific facts about your prospective school will also prove that you’ve done your research and you’re certain that this is the school for you. Use your essay to say that this is a  top school, and you’ve taken the time to figure out why. As a transfer student, you’ll want to put an emphasis on commitment, and ensure your new school that this is the final change you want to make.

Pursue Your Passion at North Central College

When you’re ready to transfer, you’ll want to look for a school like North Central College. North Central College is committed to helping transfer students succeed academically, socially and professionally . With helpful resources, scholarships, and local community college partners—it’s never been easier to make the switch. Find the right program to reach your career goals, and learn more with North Central College’s “Should I Transfer College” Quiz today!

Jacob Imm is a communications specialist in the North Central College Office of Marketing and Communications. He has 11 years of collegiate communications experience and has worked with hundreds of college students. He has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame and a master’s degree from Northern Illinois University.

Sawyer, E. (2021, August 3). How to write a successful college transfer essay . College Essay Guy | Get Inspired. 

https://www.collegeessayguy.com/blog/college-transfer-essay-examples . 

Andrew Belasco. A licensed counselor and published researcher. (2020, December 28). How to write a winning college transfer essay. College Transitions.

https://www.collegetransitions.com/blog/how-to-write-a-college-transfer-essay/ .

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How to Write a College Transfer Essay

How to write a college transfer essay in 2024.

Bonus Material: PrepMaven’s Transfer Application Statistics for Top Schools

For most students, making the final decision about which college to attend is the end of a long, stressful process. But what if you go through all that and aren’t happy at your current school? Or perhaps you’re finishing up your Associate’s degree at community college and plan to transfer to a four-year school. Either way, you’re not alone–and you’re not stuck. 

Many students decide to transfer from university to another at some point in their academic careers. While this isn’t uncommon, it can be hard to find good guidance about transferring schools. How is a transfer application different from your regular Common Application? How important are transfer essays? How are transfer essays different from your college application essays?

In this post, we’ll use our decades of experience guiding students through the admissions process to help break down how to write your college transfer essay to maximize your chances of acceptance. 

Download PrepMaven’s Transfer Application Statistics for Top Schools

Jump to section: What Is the Common App Transfer Essay? Transfer Essays Dos and Don’ts Transfer Essay Writing Tips How Is the Transfer Essay Different from the Regular College Essay? Next steps

What Is the Common App Transfer Essay?

Most universities that accept the Common App for high school applicants will also ask you to submit transfer applications through the Common App. 

When applying as a transfer student, however, you’ll generally have to answer one or more school-specific essays targeted at transfer students. In general, you’ll be asked to write about 500 words in response to a question about why you feel you’d benefit from continuing your education at a different university. 

Some schools, especially more prestigious ones, will also ask additional transfer essay questions–such as what about their offerings attracts you, or what you were missing at your previous university. 

These prompts will vary slightly from school to school and year to year, but you can always find this information on the Common App page for the school you’re applying to, as well as on that school’s website. 

Princeton, for example, will expect you to answer all of the essay prompts that high school applicants answer, as well as two additional ones: 

Have you had any interruptions or gaps in your education since high school or college, or have you left any school voluntarily for a significant time frame? If so, please explain the timeline of your postsecondary career. (Please respond in about 150 words.) What are your plans during and after your higher education experience? (Please respond in about 150 words.)

Harvard also asks you to answer additional questions for a transfer application: 

Briefly, please indicate the most influential factors in your decision to attend your present college (for example, location, cost, size of student body, only option, special program offered, Early Decision plan, etc.) What alternatives to transferring to Harvard are you considering? Please indicate your field of specialization and briefly outline your academic plans at Harvard College. What are your current postgraduate/career plans? Briefly discuss one book that has strongly influenced you.

These are generally fairly short essay prompts, but the key difference from your original college application is that there isn’t one “main” Common App essay for transfer applications. Instead, your “transfer essay” will be determined by what school you’re applying to. 

When you create a Common App transfer application account, you’ll be asked to add the school’s you plan to transfer to. In addition to the general information you’ll fill out in the Common Application portal (academics, demographics, activities), each school will have a separate application for you to fill out, and this is where you’ll find the transfer essay prompt . 

So, instead of having one “personal essay,” you’ll likely have several personal statements, one for each transfer school you’re applying to. 

These transfer essay prompts can vary. Generally, though, you can expect to be asked to discuss your reasons for leaving your current school, your career goals, and why you want to attend this transfer college. 

Below, we’ve collected some statistics on transfer acceptance rates to top schools. We’ll be honest: transferring to a top school can be just as hard–or harder!–than applying there out of high school. These statistics can help you get a sense of your chances, aiding in your transfer application planning. Download them for free now!

Transfer Essays Dos and Don’ts

If you’re looking to scan over your transfer essay and make some quick changes that can instantly boost your chances, check out our quick-fix guide to college essays , then read on for specific Dos and Don’ts. 

Things to do:

• Do be clear about what you’re missing at your current university. It’s a fine line to walk, but it’s important to be up front about this: if your current school were perfect, then why would you be transferring? Perhaps the academic program doesn’t align with your educational goals. Or perhaps they’re missing resources to launch you into your chosen career path. In any case, be clear!
• Do touch on what you’ve been able to gain from your current college so far. What skills/perspective/knowledge do you have now that you didn’t in high school? If you’re the kind of student who was rejected by the kinds of schools you’re now trying to transfer to, you especially need to show how you’ve developed and grown since high school. 
• Do identify specific elements that draw you to the transfer school. We touched on this above, but you want to be really clear about why you’d benefit from a transfer. 
• Do show what you bring to the table. In other words, why should this school accept you? You might want to connect this to your collegiate academic accomplishments, research experience, or community involvement. 

Things to avoid:

• Don’t be overly negative about your current school. It’s a tough line to walk, but the key is conveying that there’s something missing, or that there’s some disconnect between the college experience and what you need. It’s not to complain about your current school or to give the impression that you’re “better than” the school. 
• Don’t (!!) complain about other students. This is a huge red flag: even if you’ve had problems getting along with other students, you need to keep this to yourself. Otherwise, you’ll come off as someone who’ll cause problems or who is antisocial. 
• Don’t dwell on high school accomplishments. You want to come off mature and self-aware, and there’s nothing less mature or self-aware than someone in college who can’t stop talking about high school. 
• Don’t offer generic or shallow reasons for your transfer. Improved job prospects, academic rankings, or the intelligence of the student body are not good reasons to apply to a transfer school. They’ll make it seem like you haven’t really done the research, or that you just want to go to a school with a more prestigious name. 

Transfer Essay Writing Tips

In general, the same advice we give for how to write your college essay holds true for writing strong transfer essays! To summarize, a good college essay, whether a transfer essay or not, consists of two key elements: 

• Reflection 

To break it down further, the “story” element of your transfer essay will be the stuff that makes it personal, the stuff that makes it you . Think about it this way: admissions officers at Harvard and Princeton have to read countless application essays. Eventually, all these essays are going to start sounding pretty much the same. 

Even if you’re smart and a great writer, there are only so many ways that you can answer the prompt if you’re being general. Plus, most of the other transfer applicants are themselves smart and great writers too. So, how do you create personal statements that stand out?

Make it personal . In other words, incorporate a story from your life that nobody else could write about for the simple fact that nobody else has lived it. We’re not saying you need to turn this into a creative writing exercise, necessarily. If the prompt is direct and doesn’t leave you much room to elaborate, then you can’t afford to launch into a full literary narrative. 

But you can still include a brief glimpse into your life or describe a particular moment. For example, you might start by briefly describing the moment you realized you wanted to transfer from your current school. What happened? Where were you? What were you thinking in that moment?

Even something as simple as starting the essay with a short anecdote like that will immediately make your transfer essay more memorable to college admissions officers! You can check out our post here for specific examples of college essay openings that you can use to get ideas for your own transfer application essay. 

“Reflection” refers to what you make of your story. If you read our materials on structuring your college essays , you’ll already know how crucial it is to connect the personal details you provide to your values. 

Ultimately, your “story” is there to make your essay personable and memorable. But it’s your “reflection” and the values you’re able to convey that really show admissions committees that you’re a good fit for their school. 

Most importantly, you need to convey how your values both make you a valuable addition to the community and align with the values of your transfer school. 

If you take a look at the transfer statistics we’ve collected for your use here you’ll see just how selective transfer applications can be. It’s why we recommend working with an expert college essay tutor to craft strong transfer essays. Because there are so many different college essay services out there, we’ve done the research to rank the top 14 college essay services for this year– you can check out our post there. 

Of course, if you’re ready to work with us directly, you can reach out any time : our tutors come from Ivy League universities, and many have years-long track records of placing applicants into the most selective schools in the country. 

How Is the Transfer Essay Different from the Regular College Essay?

Much of the advice for the transfer essay is the same, because ultimately this essay is a very similar piece of writing to the standard college application essay, with the same goal (getting you into college). So, when it comes to the nuts and bolts of the process, you can confidently rely on our guides to brainstorm , revise , and end your college essays here. 

You should also especially read about how to write the “Why us?” supplemental essay (and look at our free sample essays that got students into Ivies). You probably remember writing these for your initial applications, but many transfer applications logically require a version of this essay as well!

But, despite these similarities, there are a few things that make the transfer essay unique. 

First, transfer essays should be slightly more direct and to the point than your other college application essays. You’ll notice that you’ll generally have less space for these essays, which means you need to make every word count. You’ll also notice that some of these prompts are more direct, asking you to specifically identify, for example, what aspects of your current university don’t work for you. 

This doesn’t mean you should ditch the personal or storytelling elements of your essays! It just means these elements should be incorporated quickly and efficiently, without as much detail as you might have used in your Common App essay in high school. 

Second, essays for college transfer applications need to focus more on your time in college rather than on what you did in high school. This becomes increasingly true the further into your college career you are: if you’re a college sophomore, then most of your anecdotes should refer to your college experience. 

If you’re still only writing about things you did in high school, you’ll seem immature! Be sure to focus on what you’ve gained, lost, and experienced in your first years of college life. 

Finally, you’ll be expected to have a more concrete sense of what you want out of a college experience. When you were writing in high school, it might have been fine to be a little general, or just to talk about multiple avenues that you might be interested in. 

Transfer applicants, however, will really be expected to concretely articulate their career goals and interests, as well as what specific resources you plan to take advantage of at your new campus community and what resources were missing at your old one. 

These transfer essays are high stakes: for schools like Princeton and Harvard, transfer acceptance rates can be even lower than regular acceptance rates! If you want to make sure you’re writing these essays correctly, get connected with one of our expert college essay coaches here .

Choosing to transfer colleges can be a difficult decision. For many students, it can be the right one–but actually getting into your dream school as a transfer student may be even harder than getting in from high school!

If you’re serious about transferring to a selective university, then you’ll need to put a lot of work into your transfer essays. But you don’t want that hard work going to waste: work with one of our expert college essay tutors to ensure that your essay will impress the admissions committee and boost your chances of acceptance. 

Want to know exactly what your chances are? We’ve put together a resource of the most recent statistics on transfer applications for top schools. Download it for free below to get a sense of what it’ll take to get admitted!

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Guide to Writing a Great Transfer Essay

Here is the most common prompt for transfer students applying through the Common App :  

“Please provide a statement that addresses your reasons for transferring and the objectives you hope to achieve.” (250-600 words)

The three key steps to mastering the transfer essay are as follows:

Step One: Establish why you want to transfer.

Tell admissions why you want to transfer, and do so without speaking negatively about your current institution. Are you looking for a bigger school? Do you want to attend a university in a tech-centric city? Did you just discover your passion for a major that your current institution doesn’t offer? Transferring is a big decision, so it’s important to show that your intentions are clear. Whatever the reason, refrain from speaking ill of your current school. You want to come off as optimistic and forward thinking to admissions.  

Step Two: Demonstrate your interest.

Why are you applying to this school in particular? You’ve been through the admissions cycle before and you are wiser than you were a year or two ago. Admissions officers will expect that you’ve done your research and are making a calculated, thoughtful decision to transfer. Your interest in transferring to one school should be directly related to your reason for leaving your current school: What gaps or unmet needs will your prospective institution address? Do you want to transfer for the school’s humongous alumni network, award-winning journalism program, or non-profit affiliations? Have you always dreamed of living in the city in which the school is located? Make sure admissions knows that you aren’t applying because “it’s gotta be better than my current school” but because this school is where you feel you truly belong. Illustrate your drive and maybe you’ll be hitting the ground running come the fall. (Hint: the best way to get the information you need is by setting aside a chunk of time to pore over the school website. Sorry, there’s no shortcut, even the second time around.)

Step Three: Establish the highlights of your collegiate career so far.

You have an edge that most freshman don’t: You’ve already been to college, so you know a bit more about the experience as well as your own academic and career goals. Being able to say that you know you will succeed at your school of choice because you flourish in small classrooms, lead in group projects, excel in the math and sciences or whatever your reasoning may be is crucial. Talk about what you have enjoyed about college thus far (again, be positive!) and how you hope to build on your experience at your (hopefully) new school!

Once you complete these three steps, you will have all the ingredients for a fantastic transfer essay! But before you hit submit, a final word of warning: some schools require transfer applicants to submit supplemental essays (remember those?). Do yourself a favor and compile a list of these in advance to ensure that every essay you write reveals something new and special to admissions. But first, give yourself a pat on the back. By reading this post, you’ve already given yourself a leg up (at least we think so). Go you!  

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Sample College Transfer Essay

A Sample Essay by a Student Transferring From Amherst to Penn

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The following sample essay was written by a student named David. He wrote the transfer essay below for the Common Transfer Application in response to the prompt, "Please provide a statement that addresses your reasons for transferring and the objectives you hope to achieve" (250 to 650 words). David is attempting to transfer from Amherst College to the University of Pennsylvania . As far as admissions standards go, this is a lateral move—both schools are extremely selective. His letter will need to be extremely strong for his transfer application to be successful.

Key Takeaways: A Winning Transfer Essay

• Have a clear academic reason for your transfer. Personal reasons are fine, but academics need to come first.
• Stay positive. Don't speak badly of your current school. Emphasize what you like about your target school, not what you dislike about your current school.
• Be meticulous. Grammar, punctuation, and style matter. Show that you put time and care into your writing.

David's Transfer Application Essay

During the summer after my first year of college, I spent six weeks volunteering at an archaeological excavation in Hazor, site of the largest tel (mound) in Israel. My time in Hazor was not easy—wake-up came at 4:00 a.m., and by noontime temperatures were often in the 90s. The dig was sweaty, dusty, back-breaking work. I wore out two pairs of gloves and the knees in several pairs of khakis. Nevertheless, I loved every minute of my time in Israel. I met interesting people from around the world, worked with amazing students and faculty from Hebrew University, and became fascinated with the current efforts to create a portrait of life in the Canaanite period.

Upon my return to Amherst College for my sophomore year, I soon came to realize that the school does not offer the exact major I now hope to pursue. I'm majoring in anthropology, but the program at Amherst is almost entirely contemporary and sociological in its focus. More and more my interests are becoming archaeological and historical. When I visited Penn this fall, I was impressed by the breadth of offerings in anthropology and archaeology, and I absolutely loved your Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology. Your broad approach to the field with emphases on understanding both the past and present has great appeal to me. By attending Penn, I hope to broaden and deepen my knowledge in anthropology, participate in more summer field work, volunteer at the museum, and eventually, go on to graduate school in archaeology.

My reasons for transferring are almost entirely academic. I have made many good friends at Amherst, and I have studied with some wonderful professors. However, I do have one non-academic reason for being interested in Penn. I originally applied to Amherst because it was comfortable—I come from a small town in Wisconsin, and Amherst felt like home. I'm now looking forward to pushing myself to experience places that aren't quite so familiar. The kibbutz at Kfar HaNassi was one such environment, and the urban environment of Philadelphia would be another.

As my transcript shows, I have done well at Amherst and I am convinced I can meet the academic challenges of Penn. I know I would grow at Penn, and your program in anthropology perfectly matches my academic interests and professional goals.

Before we even get to the critique of David's essay, it's important to put his transfer into context. David is attempting to transfer into an  Ivy League  school. Penn is not the most selective of the country's top universities, but the transfer acceptance rate is still around 6% (at Harvard and Stanford, that number is closer to 1%). David needs to approach this effort at transfer realistically — even with excellent grades and a stellar essay, his chances of success are far from guaranteed.

That said, he has many things going for him — he is coming from an equally demanding college where he has earned good grades, and he seems like the type of student who will certainly succeed at Penn. He will need strong  letters of recommendation  to round out his application.

Analysis of David's Transfer Essay

Now on to the essay... Let's break down the discussion of David's transfer essay into several categories.

The Reasons for Transfer

The strongest feature of David's essay is the focus. David is pleasingly specific in presenting his reasons for transferring. He knows exactly what he wants to study, and he has a clear understanding of what both Penn and Amherst have to offer him. David's description of his experience in Israel defines the focus of his essay, and he then connects that experience to his reasons for wanting to transfer. There are lots of bad reasons to transfer, but David's clear interest in studying anthropology and archaeology makes his motives seem both well thought-out and reasonable.

Many transfer applicants are trying to move to a new college because they are running away from some kind of bad experience, sometimes something academic, sometimes something more personal. David, however, clearly likes Amherst and is running towards something—an opportunity at Penn that better matches his newly discovered professional goals. This is a big positive factor for his application.

The Common Transfer Application instructions state that the essay needs to be at least 250 words. The maximum length is 650 words. David's essay comes in at around 380 words. It is tight and concise. He doesn't waste time talking about his disappointments with Amherst, nor does he put much effort into explaining the things that other parts of his application will cover such as grades and extracurricular involvement. He does have a lot more space left to elaborate, but in this case the letter gets the job done well with few words.

David gets the tone perfect, something that is difficult to do in a transfer essay. Let's face it—if you are transferring it is because there is something about your current school that you don't like. It's easy to be negative and critical of your classes, your professors, your college environment, and so on. It's also easy to come across as a whiner or an ungenerous and angry person who doesn't have the inner resources to make the most of one's circumstances. David avoids these pitfalls. His representation of Amherst is extremely positive. He praises the school while noting that the curricular offerings do not match his professional goals.

The Personality

Partly because of the tone discussed above, David comes across as a pleasant person, someone who the admissions folks are likely to want to have as part of their campus community. Moreover, David presents himself as someone who likes to push himself to grow. He is honest in his reasons for going to Amherst—the school seemed like a good "fit" given his small-town upbringing. It is, therefore, impressive to see him so actively working to expand his experiences beyond his provincial roots. David has clearly grown at Amherst, and he is looking forward to growing more at Penn.

The Writing

When applying to a place like Penn, the technical aspects of the writing need to be flawless. David's prose is clear, engaging and free of errors. If you struggle on this front, be sure to check out these  tips for improving your essay's style . And if grammar isn't your greatest strength, be sure to work through your essay with someone who does have strong grammar skills.

A Final Word on David's Transfer Essay

David's college transfer essay does exactly what an essay needs to do, and he includes the features of a strong transfer essay . He clearly articulates his reasons for transferring, and he does so in a positive and specific way. David presents himself as a serious student with clear academic and professional goals. We have little doubt that he has the skills and intellectual curiosity to succeed at Penn, and he has made a strong argument about why this particular transfer makes a lot of sense.

Odds are still against David's success given the competitive nature of Ivy League transfers, but he has strengthened his application with his essay.

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How to Write a Successful College Transfer Essay & Examples

• Icon Calendar 18 May 2024

When students want to change their higher education institutions, they need good guidelines for writing a college transfer essay. In this case, the article provides essential insights, including the definition and meaning of a college transfer essay, the seven sections that students should consider, common prompts that they can use to produce their papers, and 20 tips for creating a high-standard transfer paper, including what to do and not to do. Students also get a glimpse of a sample outline and an example for a practical impression of how a college transfer essay should appear. Therefore, reading this guideline is helpful to students who need to convince college admission committees that a transfer request is genuine and why they should grant it.

How to Write an Outstanding College Transfer Essay & Examples

Reading scholarly texts is intellectually refreshing and essential in grasping insights into the mechanics of writing different types of papers. Moreover, students write different types of essays to assess their course content understanding continuously. Therefore, learning to write academic papers is critical to one’s performance in those assessments. This article provides a guideline for writing a successful college transfer essay, covering key insights and crucial details that students and anyone interested in writing should study to create high-standard documents. Some insights include the definition and meaning of a college transfer essay and its main features when to write this document, possible topics, a sample essay outline template, practical examples of this work, and 20 tips for producing a high-standard paper. In turn, critical details include the easy step-by-step process of starting a college transfer essay, emphasizing the technical aspects of creating the piece. As a result, reading the guideline can help all writers to understand the attitude they should adopt to have a high-quality essay.

Definition of a College Transfer Essay and Its Meaning

From a simple definition, a college transfer essay is an academic document that college students write to move from one educational institution to another. Essentially, students communicate their desire to transfer and highlight details that can help a committee to accept the request by following a well-organized essay structure. This structure comprises seven sections, each providing details that allow the audience to understand the student and the reason for requesting a college transfer. The essential information includes the student’s core values, the reason they chose their current college, why they want to transfer to another education institution, a demonstration that they have maximized or optimized their current situation, their dream, how the new place will help them to actualize the goal, and a memorable closure. Therefore, a college transfer essay means that people must convince the audience, mainly a college admission committee, to accept them as new students.

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Unique Structure of a Winning College Transfer Essay

💠 section/paragraph 1: how to write about core values & example.

As stated above, Section 1 of a college transfer essay highlights the student’s core values. For example, core values determine people’s behavior, what they can and cannot accept in their social circle, and what inspires them. When outlining these values, students should focus on making a first impression. Therefore, core values should convince the audience to accept the student’s transfer request. In turn, some core values that can help to make the first impression in such a request include a family; caring; a willingness to serve, learn, grow, fight injustice; and solve problems. Students can communicate effectively by using personal stories to emphasize these values and explain how the current college does not align with some of these values in an essay. Writers should avoid exaggeration and use a hook to keep readers interested in continuing reading.

An Example of a Paragraph for Section 1

I hold dear core values that define my personality and identity, including a desire to do good, dependability, hard work, commitment, integrity, generosity, and moral uprightness. One reason for seeking a transfer to your institution is your anti-plagiarism policy. While my current college has been valuable in helping me to demonstrate most of these values, it could have been more helpful regarding integrity. Academic honesty is the most relevant issue in demonstrating integrity in college. Typically, colleges and professors clarify to students with solid emphasis the penalty of academic dishonesty, such as plagiarism. While my current college does this activity, I do not find the penalties sufficient to dissuade academic dishonesty. Such laxity may expose me to circumstances where I may violate my value system. For example, I have faced a dilemma severally of whether to report my peers who plagiarize their work.

💠 Section/Paragraph 2: The Reason Why I Decided to Choose Your College & Example

Section 2 of a college transfer essay should explain why students chose their current college. Basically, students should understand that the audience is interested in hearing why they want to transfer and about their college. While a negative issue may compel the transfer request, one should communicate the problem without painting the college negatively. Essential details in this section include what made the student choose the college; the current experience, including what one is doing to develop intellectually; how the college has helped to meet a learning objective, such as going on field trips to gain practical experience. When writing this section of an essay, students’ focus should be to demonstrate to the audience that they are using their time in the current college optimally. In turn, one should focus on positive aspects rather than negative ones of the institution in an essay.

An Example of a Paragraph for Section 2

My current college has proven helpful to my quest for intellectual development because of its various programs. However, I chose it primarily because it is in the same city as my home, and I could save on accommodation money. Nonetheless, I have made important leaps in knowledge since I joined. I am in the second year of college education and spend most of my time researching topics in the library. Indeed, my research skills have developed incredibly during my time at the institution. I credit this intellectual development to professors and other instructors who give assignments, including essays and research papers, requiring students to research materials. As such, the college library has been like a second home to me. As I seek to leave, I take these experiences as a ladder for greater intellectual development in my next destination.

💠 Section/Paragraph 3: The Reason Why I Want to Leave the Current College

Section 3 of a college transfer essay should convince the audience why the student seeks to transfer to their institution. Ideally, students should not paint their current college negatively but focus on explaining why they think the college they want to move to is ideal for achieving their goal. Students should explain why they want to leave their current college, such as a lack of critical resources like a science lab, limited opportunities for exposing students to the corporate world, or a new policy like mandatory online learning. When writing this section of an essay, students should convince the audience that the current college can not push them toward their goal and that the one they seek to join is ideal. The most crucial detail in an essay is not to talk badly about the current college.

An Example of a Paragraph in Section 3

One reason for requesting a transfer from my current institution is the limited opportunities for career exposure. For example, it is normal for students to go a whole year without a field trip despite course content insisting on the need to link theory and practice. While researching the college to transfer to, I came across your website and how the institution prioritizes field trips as a pillar of students’ practical learning. As a nursing student, I must get first-hand experience with the dynamics that influence healthcare in the clinical environment, such as the relationship between nurses and patients, including the issues that nurses confront daily in developing or nurturing the relationship. As I investigated your college, I learned that nursing students have at least two field trips each academic year. This orientation is ideal for my dream.

💠 Section/Paragraph 4: Maximizing or Optimizing Time and Achievements

While students may want to explain why they think the college they wish to transfer to is better than their current one, one should also tell the audience how they maximize or optimize their time in the current college. Section 4 of a college transfer essay allows students to tell the audience how productive their time in the current institution is. This message is essential to convince the audience that one is not preoccupied with a desire to leave at the expense of their academic development. Instead, they should show that they are working on their intellectual growth but see a transfer as more effective in accelerating it. Doing so in an essay convinces readers that a transfer is necessary during the learning process. Moreover, students should state their accomplishments in the current college and how they have met instructors’ expectations when writing their essays.

An Example of a Paragraph in Section 4

My time in my current institution is productive and intellectually engaging. Although there are reasons why I want to transfer from the college, I am spending my time to get the best of what I have. For example, I use the college library to gain insights into nursing topics and interact with instructors to seek clarification on complex concepts. Some resources in my current college are still beneficial to my intellectual development and career preparation. A core value that enables me to optimize my time in college is commitment, and I am deeply committed to my intellectual growth, not allowing a desire to transfer derail me from what is essential. While an institution may be supportive, the student’s attitude determines their success.

💠 Section/Paragraph 5: My Study Dream

Section 5 of a college transfer essay focuses on the student’s dream, career aspirations, or what they want to become after college. Ideally, people have different reasons for pursuing a college education. Students should use this section to educate the audience about the end goal of their college education. Therefore, writers should tell readers about their dream and how they intend to achieve it. At this point, authors should state how the transfer request is open to the plans because it allows them to get into a resourceful learning environment. When the audience reads this section, they should answer “Why us?” because the student emphasizes how the new college differs from their current institution. However, one should briefly mention the new college’s positives because the focus of an essay is on their dream.

An Example of a Paragraph in Section 5

My dream to become a registered nurse is the reason for my college transfer request. All my life, I have dreamed of becoming a healthcare professional to enable people to live healthier lives. A college education is a prerequisite for this dream. While my current institution has taught me the fundamentals of a nursing career, it has not immersed me fully into the practical environment. This gap is why I seek to transfer from the college to your institution. While searching for an alternative college, I learned how your institution considers practical education integral to holistic learning. Your college immerses learners into the career environment through field trips and student attachment programs. This orientation is critical and beneficial to my quest to become a registered nurse knowledgeable in theory and practice.

💠 Section/Paragraph 6: How Your College Will Help Me

Section 6 of a college transfer essay is about the competitive advantage of the college a student seeks to transfer to, meaning that writers inform the audience about the aspects of their institution that make it attractive. These aspects may include education programs, student policies, and resource availability. Moreover, writers must emphasize the college’s advantages over their current institution and how they support their career aspirations. In their essays, students should inform the audience about what they need and how their college has helped to meet it. An example of a need may be practical skills, and the resources that a particular college has at the moment may help them to develop themselves, including attachment programs that immerse learners into a realistic environment, such as a workplace. Besides, a college transfer essay must emphasize how the target institution beats the rest as an ideal place to achieve a learning outcome.

An Example of a Paragraph in Section 6

Prioritizing students’ practical knowledge is central to your college’s identity and the primary reason for my college transfer request. I have learned how nursing students get at least two field trips per academic year and how an attachment program allows learners to work in a clinical environment during holidays. These orientations are fundamental to gaining insights into the dynamics in the healthcare environment and their impact on the nurse-patient relationship. Unfortunately, my current college has limited opportunities for such exposure, questioning its commitment to students’ holistic learning. As a nursing college that minds students’ practical skills, your institution stands above the rest as the institution of choice for students aspiring to a nursing career. In this respect, I am confident I have made the right choice to seek a transfer to your institution.

💠 Section/Paragraph 7: Memorable Closure

Section 7 of a college transfer essay summarizes the students’ communication with a college admission committee. As such, writers must make it short, relevant, and impactful. These outcomes are essential in making it memorable to the audience and a reason to grant the transfer request. Various strategies for writing this section include using an academic tone to wrap an essay. This inspiring ending emphasizes one’s personality, ending with a statement beginning with “I have a dream,” commenting on how the new college will be a new or second home or how one will benefit the new family as much as they can. Regardless of the ending of an essay, students should refrain from introducing further information in this section because they must exhaust all they have to say in the preceding paragraphs.

An Example of a Paragraph in Section 7

I firmly believe my college transfer request is timely. The information I have offered is genuine and shows my desire to join your college as my new family. I promise to do my best to contribute to the welfare of this family without losing sight of my core values. As you consider my transfer request, please, consider the resources lacking in my current institution but available in yours and how they are essential to my career aspiration.

Example of a Full College Transfer Essay

Comment: The details in each section of a college transfer essay should help students to produce a persuasive paper as below:

The core values that define my personality and personal identity are a desire to do good, dependability, hard work, commitment, integrity, generosity, and moral uprightness. One reason for this transfer request is your institution’s anti-plagiarism policy. While my current college has been valuable in helping me demonstrate most of my core values, it could have been more helpful regarding integrity. Academic honesty is the most relevant issue in demonstrating integrity in college. Typically, colleges and professors clarify to students with solid emphasis the penalty of academic dishonesty, such as plagiarism. While my current college does this, I do not find the penalties sufficient to dissuade academic dishonesty. Such laxity may expose me to circumstances where I may violate my value system. For example, I have faced a dilemma severally of whether to report my peers who plagiarize their work.

A host of programs in my current college has proven valuable in my quest for intellectual development. However, I chose the institution primarily because it is in the same city as my home, and I could save on accommodation money. Nonetheless, I have made important leaps in knowledge since I joined. I am in the second year of college education and spend most of my time researching topics in the library. Indeed, my research skills have developed incredibly during my time at the institution. I credit this intellectual development to the professors who give assignments, including essays and research papers, requiring students to research materials. As such, the college library has been like a second home to me. As I seek to leave, I take these experiences as a ladder for greater intellectual development in my next home.

One reason for requesting a transfer from my current institution is the limited opportunities for career exposure. For example, it is normal for students to go a whole year without a field trip despite course content insisting on the need to link theory and practice. While researching the college to transfer to, I found your website and information about how the institution prioritizes field trips as a pillar of students’ practical learning. As a nursing student, I must get first-hand experience with the dynamics that influence healthcare in the clinical environment, such as the relationship between nurses and patients and the issues that nurses confront daily in developing or nurturing the relationship. As I investigated your college, I learned that nursing students have at least two field trips each academic year. This orientation is ideal for my career aspiration.

My time in my current institution has been productive and intellectually rewarding. Although there are reasons why I want to transfer from the college, I am spending my time to get the best of what I have. For example, I use the college library to gain insights into nursing topics and interact with instructors to seek clarification on complex concepts. Some resources in my current college are still beneficial to my intellectual development and career preparation. A core value that enables me to optimize my time in college is commitment, and I am deeply committed to my intellectual growth, not allowing a desire to transfer derail me from what is essential. While an institution may be supportive, the student’s attitude determines their success.

My dream to become a registered nurse is the reason for my college transfer request. I have dreamed of becoming a healthcare professional to help people live healthier lives. A college education is a prerequisite for this dream. While my current institution has taught me the fundamentals of a nursing career, it has not immersed me fully into the practical environment. This gap is why I seek to transfer from the college to your institution. While searching for an alternative college, I learned how your institution considers practical education integral to holistic learning. Your college immerses learners into the career environment through field trips and student attachment programs. This orientation is critical and beneficial to my quest to become a registered nurse knowledgeable in theory and practice.

Therefore, the primary reason for my college transfer request is your institution’s tradition of prioritizing students’ practical knowledge. I have learned how field trips and an attachment program allow learners to work in a clinical environment. These orientations are fundamental to gaining insights into the dynamics in the healthcare environment and their impact on the nurse-patient relationship. Unfortunately, my current college has limited opportunities for such exposure, questioning its commitment to students’ holistic learning. As a nursing college that minds students’ practical skills, your institution stands above the rest as the institution of choice for students aspiring to a nursing career. In this respect, I am confident I have made the right choice to seek a transfer to your institution.

Why and Where Do You Need to Write a Creative College Transfer Essay

Students write a college transfer essay to move from the higher learning institution they are currently in to another. As such, various reasons compel students to write this essay, such as an unsatisfactory learning environment, new unfriendly policies, increased fees, or any other reason that might make one want to leave. However, transfers are not automatic, and students must convince the institution they seek to transfer to that their request is valid. In other words, colleges do not encourage students to transfer for the sake of it. Student admission committees demonstrate this attitude by requiring students to explain through their essays why they want to transfer to the institution. Therefore, when writing a college transfer essay, one should approach it with some seriousness because the student admission committee can reject it if it finds the reasons for wanting to transfer are invalid.

Most Common College Transfer Prompts

• Some students believe their college transfer request is complete with a mention of their background, identity, interest, or talent, which they consider meaningful. If this statement describes you, kindly share your story in an essay.
• Obstacles can provide lessons that prove fundamental to later success. Please share your experience of a challenge, failure, or setback, how it affected you, and the lesson(s) you learned.
• Recall when you challenged or questioned a belief or an idea and reflect on it, commenting on what prompted the thinking and the outcome in an essay.
• In an essay format, describe a problem you have solved or would like to solve, stating its significance and the steps you took or would take to find a solution. Consider problems important to you regardless of their orientation or magnitude, such as a research question, ethical dilemma, or intellectual challenge.
• Discuss how a personal accomplishment, event, or awareness triggered a period of personal growth and a deeper understanding of self or others in an essay.
• Describe an idea, concept, or topic that captivates you to the extent of losing track of time. Explain why it has this effect and what you do to learn more about it.
• Choose a topic for an essay. Feel free to consider topics you have written about, topics that respond to a different prompt, or a topic you design from the knowledge you have gained.
• Explore some ideas that make you hungry for intellectual development. State how these ideas can help describe your life perspective.
• Discuss how a career aspiration can propel one’s desire for academic achievement and state some behaviors students demonstrate when pursuing a career goal.
• How do you define a dream, and how is it relevant to one’s education? Describe how your dream underscores your choice of a college in an essay.
• What are motivations? What motivations underscore your desire to join a specific college?
• Discuss life experiences as educational. Describe a personal experience that has taught you important life lessons that underscore your value system in an essay.

The Prompt That Represents Your Strength the Most

Typically, student admission committees ask students to describe certain aspects of their education as a basis for their transfer request. While addressing all the prompts above in a college transfer essay is standard, students may need to focus on one or several themes. The best way to write a perfect college transfer essay focusing on a few prompts is to choose those that represent their strength the most. For example, one may select prompt #7, which asks students to write some essay topics of their choice. The reason for choosing the prompt is that it gives one enough room to generate ideas. Since college essay topics decide the quality of a college transfer essay one can produce, allowing students to determine a specific theme is helpful because they can choose what they are passionate about or knowledgeable about.

Sample Outline Template for Writing a Good College Transfer Essay

I. Introduction

• Starting with a hook.
• A personal statement that highlights one’s core values in an essay.
• Provide reasons for choosing the new college.
• Include reasons for wanting to leave the current college.
• Explain how one has or is optimizing time in the current college.
• Emphasize career aspiration.
• Explain why the new college will make the aspiration come true.

III. Conclusion

• End a college transfer essay with memorable information that impresses the audience enough to grant the transfer request.

Sample College Transfer Essay

I am ambitious because I always make the best of every opportunity and seek personal development. My personality’s core values include altruism, ambition, hard work, generosity, commitment, empathy, and dependability. Indeed, these values have been fundamental in shaping my experiences with people and institutions. I write to request a college transfer to the University of Pennsylvania because Amherst College no longer supports my career aspiration.

Undoubtedly, Amherst College is a wonderful place because it promotes students’ social and intellectual development. I chose the college because I have heard stories about it being the home of liberal arts. Coming from a home with a father who practices as a family therapist and a mother who spends most of her working time attending to patients in a psychiatric institution, I have always dreamed of being a psychologist. Amherst College has been instrumental in my quest to attain this career aspiration.

However, I want to transfer from Amherst because I wish for a place committed to cutting-edge research and innovation. For the time I have been at Amherst, I have seen students travel to distant colleges to have a deeper insight into the research world. While this tradition has benefits, it inconveniences students’ intellectual development. Moreover, how a college invests in a course or program reflects its commitment to the academic and intellectual welfare of the concerned students. From this perspective, Amherst College has work to do.

While I seek to transfer to Penn, I do not take my time at Amherst for granted. I continue to focus on my academic work, utilizing the available resources, including professors and the physical and online libraries, to the maximum. The core values of ambition, hard work, and commitment propel me to use every minute at Amherst to develop intellectually and move closer to my dream.

As stated, becoming a psychologist is my life-long aspiration. I dream of helping people with mental health problems because evidence shows psychiatric disorders are increasingly becoming common. Indeed, the pressures of life that continue to mount amid compounding problems trigger mental health issues, including anger, depression, stress, and suicidal ideation. Psychologists are in demand because they can prevent these experiences and conditions from resulting in severe outcomes like death.

While searching for an alternative college, I learned about Penn’s commitment to cutting-edge research and innovation, which enrich its brand in the United States and beyond. Psychology is an evolving discipline; only research can help equip students and practicing psychologists with evidence-based knowledge to address contemporary mental health issues. Moreover, innovation empowers psychologists to know how to use limited resources to achieve optimal results. Penn’s research and innovation orientation can propel me to a career where I become knowledgeable in using available resources to help the greatest number of people with mental health problems.

In conclusion, I write this request for a college transfer because I believe that while Amherst is an incredible institution that has taught me the fundamentals of psychology, it lacks what I need to achieve my dream. Penn’s commitment to cutting-edge research and innovation is a ladder I intend to climb to become a psychologist who is responsive to the mental health issues of the time .

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4 Easy Steps for Writing an Amazing College Transfer Essay

Writing a college transfer essay is a technical process that demands students’ utmost focus and commitment to academic writing conventions. The technicality of producing this kind of document underscores the details students should consider to create a high-standard essay. These details include preparation, stage setup, writing an essay, and wrap-up.

Step 1: Preparation

Preparation is the first step of writing a college transfer essay. Since the document must address why a student wants to transfer from one college to another, writers must consider such reasons and how to defend them. In other words, one must brainstorm to generate essay ideas about their current college and the institution they seek to join.

Step 2: Stage Setup

Setting up the stage is the second step of creating a college transfer paper. Students must understand that ideas are not enough, and they must know how to organize them to create a coherent composition. As such, this step involves adopting an attitude and approach that leads to a persuasive high-standard essay. One approach to consider is a seven-section essay outline that helps people to communicate effectively their reason for requesting a college transfer.

Step 3: Writing an Essay

Writing a first draft of a college transfer essay is the third step. In this case, students should focus on producing an initial draft to demonstrate a coherent flow of ideas and thoughts. Typically, this document has numerous mistakes because the writer’s focus is to have a complete essay communicating their reason for wanting a college transfer.

Step 4: Wrap-Up

In this last step of writing a college transfer essay, students should perfect their initial drafts into final essays. As such, the priority is eliminating all flaws, including grammar errors and inconsistent ideas and statements. Revising and editing an essay helps students to produce a perfect document.

20 Tips for Writing a College Transfer Essay

Considering the preceding sections, a college transfer essay is a complex document that requires writers to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of essential details, like a seven-section structure and common prompts. The tips for demonstrating such understanding include staying focused on the topic while being creative in content, knowing why one is writing the essay, focusing on an aspect of the current college that does not support one’s career dream, focusing on making oneself marketable, aiming to be the best among many candidates, demonstrating a logical progression of ideas and thoughts throughout the text, not bad-mouthing the current college, emphasizing the competitive advantage of the new college, convincing the audience that the reason for wanting to transfer is genuine, and concluding a paper with a memorable ending that leaves a lasting impression or do not impact on readers.

10 things to do when writing a college transfer essay include:

• writing a personal statement that underscores one’s core values in an essay,
• describing the strengths of the new college,
• stating the weaknesses of the current college,
• emphasizing the competitive edge of the new college,
• explaining one’s career aspiration,
• being specific in why one wants to transfer from their present to the new college,
• following a seven-section essay structure,
• not talking negatively about the current college,
• not exaggerating issues,
• ending a college transfer essay in a way that makes a lasting impression on the audience.

10 things not to do include:

• failing to emphasize one’s value system in an essay,
• attacking one’s current college,
• exaggerating the positives of the new college,
• being informal in writing,
• assuming the audience knows why one wants to transfer,
• overthinking about impressing the audience at the expense of being genuine in expressing one’s desire to transfer,
• thinking a college transfer essay is not academic because it is not related to a course,
• being simplistic in communication without aiming to impress,
• assuming the audience will have only one application to consider,
• writing an essay in a hurry and making numerous grammatical mistakes.

Summing Up on How to Write a Perfect College Transfer Essay

• Find the best way to express yourself without exaggerations in an essay.
• Adoptive a narrative approach to communicating details about the current college, such as personal experiences.
• Integrating humor but remaining formal in communication.
• Using one paragraph to communicate a single idea or aspect of the transfer request, such as the strengths or weaknesses of the current college.
• Asking for help from the professor(s).
• Brainstorming ideas to make a college transfer essay impressive.
• Assuming the audience comprises scholars to avoid careless mistakes, like grammar errors.
• Focusing on an aspect of the current college that is unsupportive of one’s career dream in an essay.
• Emphasizing aspects of the new college that support one’s career aspiration.
• Proofreading a college transfer essay several times.

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College Reality Check

How to Write Best College Transfer Essay: Secrets, Tips and Tricks

If the college you wish to transfer to is asking for a transfer essay, you can rest assured that it’s something that can have a considerable impact on the admissions decision.

As a matter of fact, you should consider submitting one even if it’s optional — it can work to your advantage should admissions officers compare you with another applicant with similar qualifications.

Since it’s not uncommon for the acceptance rates for transfer applicants to be lower than the acceptance rates for freshmen applicants, writing a winning one can help you win an acceptance letter.

How to Start a College Transfer Essay

Because it’s the very first thing that admissions officers will read, the introduction of a college transfer essay is an opportunity for the transfer applicant to stand out from other applicants.

While there are many ways to start a college essay, only a few of them can deliver each time.

Let’s take a look at some of the most commonly used opening techniques that never fail to engage admissions officers, thus making the task of getting to know you through your college transfer essay an enjoyable endeavor:

Open with an attention-grabbing sentence

The goal is to make admissions officers want to read the entirety of your transfer essay from the get-go. And that is why you should start yours with something that can get them hooked and curious enough right away.

Here are some examples of successful good openings from winning college essays submitted to Stanford:

• I have old hands.
• When I was in the eighth grade I couldn’t read.
• I change my name each time I place an order at Starbucks.

Describe a moment without revealing much

Opening with an image-based description of a particular moment without explaining much gives the audience, the admissions officers, a sense that something important is happening, the full significance of which is yet to be revealed, which is why it can keep them from wanting to grab another college essay to check out.

The following is an example of a great college transfer essay that takes advantage of this effective opening technique:

Bowing down to the porcelain god, I emptied the contents of my stomach. Foaming at the mouth, I was ready to pass out. My body couldn’t stop shaking as I gasped for air, and the room started spinning.

Create an expectation and then give a twist

Nothing can surprise admissions officers more than reading a bunch of sequential sentences establishing things that create a certain expectation by the readers only to take them in a different direction entirely.

Check out this college essay’s opening that leverages the twist approach to its full advantage:

I am on Oxford Academy’s Speech and Debate Team, in both the Parliamentary Debate division and the Lincoln-Douglas debate division. I write screenplays, short stories and opinionated blogs and am a regular contributor to my school’s literary magazine, The Glue Stick. I have accumulated over 300 community service hours that include work at homeless shelters, libraries and special education youth camps. I have been evaluated by the College Board and have placed within the top percentile. But I am not any of these things. I am not a test score, nor a debater, nor a writer. I am an anti-nihilist punk rock philosopher.

What to Write About in the Transfer Essay

The things to talk about in one’s college transfer essay depend on the prompt chosen. But generally speaking, it’s a good idea for transfer applicants to focus more on their postsecondary experience thus far.

And because the essay is for transfer admissions purposes, it’s also recommended to discuss future goals at the target institution.

It’s the body that’s the longest part of a college essay. As a result of this, as the word limit permits, the transfer applicant has plenty of room to demonstrate his or her creativity and writing skills as well as reasons for switching colleges.

However, it’s a must that the right matter is discussed in the main part of the transfer essay.

There’s something transfer applicants have that first-time, first-year applicants don’t: a higher education experience.

As such, it’s just suitable and necessary for them to talk about theirs in their college transfer essay.

After all, when reviewing transfer applications, admissions officers want to get to know how much applicants have grown since high school.

Generally speaking, the following are some of the most fitting things to write about when asked to submit a transfer essay — most college essay prompts, anyway, ask transfer applicants to discuss them:

• How you have grown from attending your current school
• What your specific goals are at your new school

How to Conclude Your Writing

Depending on the approach or method of choice, a college transfer essay can be concluded in a number of ways. For instance, the students may return to the beginning or look forward.

Ending on an action or revealing the main point, if not disclosed in the introduction and main body as a part of the preferred style, are also options for closing one’s college transfer essay.

In some instances, it’s a much better idea to know the things to avoid at all costs as far as putting your transfer essay to an end. The general consensus is that the following are some bad ones:

• Summarizing the essay
• Stating the point of the essay even if it’s obvious
• Opening the ending with cliché transitions
• Extending the desire to get accepted to the college

Tips for Writing the Best Transfer Essay

It’s important for admissions officers to know you beyond your GPA from your current college and test scores, which are required by many colleges and universities for transfer applicants to submit.

And that is why a transfer application essay is commonly a required material to include in one’s application other than the Common App or Coalition App essay.

Here’s a rundown of some dos and don’ts when it comes to writing a transfer essay so that you will find it even easier to remember the things to do to strengthen it and the things to avoid that can lower your admissions chances:

• Do focus on what you have learned. Talk about what you have discovered about yourself and what you want in life as a result of your experience at your current college. Needless to say, you should consider discussing the changes in your academic and professional goals that your college experience thus far has caused.
• Do point out the reasons for wanting to continue at another school. Of course, admissions officers at the college you are applying to would like to know why you want to switch schools. Remember to provide clear objectives and plans so that the school can have an idea of whether or not it could serve your needs better than your current institution.
• Do mention the things you like about the new college. Demonstrated interest is not considered in the admissions process at many institutions. Still, a college would be interested to know what about it that you like. Is it the academic program? How about the research opportunities available? Or is it the summer internships offered?

Don’ts

• Don’t bad mouth your current school. Avoid using your transfer essay as a platform for whining, enumerating everything you hate about the institution you are attending currently. However, there is nothing wrong in pointing out the obvious, as you will later find out in a couple of examples of successful transfer essays — so keep reading!
• Don’t use your current school as an excuse for having bad grades. While it’s true that a terrible program, campus culture or roommate can affect your academic performance negatively, there’s always a workaround for a determined and hardworking student. You don’t want the college you are eyeing to suspect that you are lazy.
• Don’t waste precious word count. Always keep in mind that it’s not just your transfer essay that the admissions officer at the college you are applying to will check out — they will, of course, also take a look at the rest of your application. To let them know you more, consider talking about things that are nowhere to be found in your Common App.

What Colleges are Looking for in Transfer Essays

According to the associate dean of admission at Hamilton College in New York colleges and universities are looking for the reasons why transfer applicants want to transfer .

She added that transfer essays are nothing like first-year essays that are more open-ended for the lack of the students’ postsecondary education experience.

True enough, a retired dean of admission and financial aid at Amherst College said that — still as a part of the same report — transferees should be more reflective about their educational goals due to their experience after high school.

Of course, different institutions have different prompts for transfer essays.

Most of them, however, want to see the very same things. And spearheading the short list is the transfer applicant’s future goals, both academically and professionally, and how transferring to the school can help in the achievement of those.

It goes without saying that the transfer applicant should be certain that the new school is a better fit for him or her than the current school. Being able to provide specific examples of why he or she deserves to be a part of the campus is also expected.

Otherwise, it’s not unlikely for the admissions officers to give any available spot to a more deserving transferee.

And to conclude this part of the post, here’s a 6-minute video of a college admissions reader talking about everything that any transfer applicant needs to include in his or her college transfer essay.

Two Transfer Essay Examples

It’s one thing to know how to write a good college transfer essay. But it’s another thing to know what a good college transfer essay looks like. And that is why in this part of this post I will give you a couple of examples of successful transfer essays, the kinds that won transfer applicants a much-coveted acceptance letter from their top-choice schools.

This first example is a transfer essay submitted to the University of Pennsylvania, in response to a prompt asking the applicant to state the reasons for transferring and the objectives he or she hopes to achieve using a minimum of 250 words:

My reasons for transferring are two-fold and equally important. Academics and campus life are arguably the most vital components of the college experience and these two areas at [current school] have been unsatisfying for me. My unhappiness at [current school] is rooted in the difference between my academic philosophy and [current school’s]. Based on my experience in class I feel like the educational emphasis at [current school] is on knowing and not learning. An example of this comes from my philosophy class in which one of the teacher’s most common responses to a question is, “let’s bracket that for now,” when the inquiry is not about something printed on the syllabus for that day. To me, this sort of teaching discourages curiosity and in a philosophy class, especially, a deeper discussion that strays from the lesson plan is what gives the class its significant and educational value. The process of learning is pared down to its most straightforward and austere so that the state of knowing can be achieved as soon as possible.

What I hope to get out of transferring is to find a school that fits my academic philosophy and believes that learning for the sake of learning is vital to a healthy education. My favorite part about classes is taking a long, winding, side-note-packed path on the way to knowing, and if we never get there it doesn’t matter because knowing isn’t the point of learning — learning is the point of learning.

As for campus life, the prevailing campus social culture has been disappointing to me. No one ever seems to tire of doing the same thing week after week and the students admit that none of the events they attend would be fun without alcohol. I prefer an environment where the sober experiences trump the drunken ones. The ongoing joke about extracurricular life is that all of the clubs and organizations are “drinking club with debate” or “drinking club with community service” and so in this manner. The students do their work so they can go out at night as opposed to doing their homework to learn something. The prevailing culture sets the tone for the whole school and creates an uninspired environment. I’d like to go to a school where the spirit is less unimaginative and more intellectually ambitious.

Both my academic and cultural concerns center on differing philosophies. The academic approach at [current school] is too pragmatic, especially given that I am a classics major, and the social life is too alcohol-centered for my liking. I’m aware that all college campuses have drinking and it is a part of college life, but I’m looking to transfer to a school where drinking is more a means to an end of socializing than an end in itself.

And now, this second example of a transfer essay submitted to the University of Texas at Austin was a response to a long prompt that basically ask applicants to talk about their current studies and future academic and professional goals:

I stood still, lost amidst a sea of towering figures. I felt the familiarity of being alone. Each time I change environments, it doesn’t come any easier. A broad-shouldered girl in a blue shirt asked accusingly me where I needed to be. Despite intimidating me at first, she turned out to be sweet and concerned for my well-being.

She took me to my classroom and introduced me to the other girls. They all seemed so different from me. My family left the United States when I was young, and during my ten years spent in India, I switched between three very different schools.

Accustomed to American schools that are relatively orderly and organized, it took time to adjust to India’s disorderly schools. Just as I started feeling comfortable with the unusual teaching methods of my new school, my parents transferred me to a more “cultural” school. With a total of seven students in the entire school, we learned in literal shacks.

My classmates were behind in their education and far below my grade level, so the teachers focused most of their time on them. I suffered greatly when I switched back into mainstream schooling. Now, it was my classmates who raced through their work. I was thrown, unprepared, into India’s rigorous education system. I struggled with constructing angles and balancing chemical equations. I had to work especially hard to make up for the time lost at my cultural school.

I made it through Tenth grade with extensive additional coaching. Despite my setback, I knew that I could do better. Through my classes, I began to develop an interest with the mathematical functions that power finance and accounting. My accounting teacher became my biggest inspiration. The way she related accounting procedures to current business crises convinced me to learn more. I started keeping up with companies’ corporate strategies and their effect on the economy.

Before my board exams, I completed additional work on my own and solved about 70 papers in preparation. The work ethic I acquired under her guidance is something that has stuck to me through the challenging times at community college. I continue to self-study with online courses offered on Khan Academy to further exceed expectations.

Additionally, my internship at the Pratham International School in the summer of 2016 gave me real-world experience with auditing and organizing financials. I applied my classroom and self-studying knowledge to help with vendor payment methods and profitable tuition pricing.

I also pursued an internship in the accounting department of The Home Depot. For the first time, I saw theoretical concepts come to life as I helped facilitate vendor payment methods and profitable product pricing. The chance to interact with higher-level financial managers gave me exposure to strategic decision-making and contingency planning.

I look forward to pursuing another internship and taking advantage of the connections provided by the McCombs School of Business. I hope the university will help connect me with fruitful opportunities to develop my business competencies. By participating in the Texas Stock Team and The University Finance Association, I can explore different interests and develop my network. I don’t have these opportunities at Houston Community College, and I don’t think any Texas university offers the unparalleled opportunities of UT. Doing research under award-winning professors like Laura Starks and Robert Parrino will give me a head start in the industry.

Like The University of Texas, I also want to transform myself and change the world. The past few months at Houston Community College have helped me realize that I need an environment with a limitless ceiling for growth. Since I have experienced many different educational environments, I have a good idea for what I seek while avoiding opportunities that may not be in my best interest. I bring a different perspective that will contribute to classroom discussions and be a valued addition to the McCombs community.

College Transfer FAQs

Before this post comes to an end, let’s answer some pressing questions many transfer applicants who are in the process of brainstorming for their college essay feel too embarrassed to ask:

Do all colleges require a transfer essay?

Not all institutions of higher education make a transfer essay a part of the admissions process for transfer applicants. However, many colleges do, including some of the most selective ones.

Some require transfer applicants to answer just a single prompt, while others oblige them to answer multiple prompts. Most prompts call for an explanation for wanting to attend the school.

Can you use a common topic for your transfer essay?

Admissions officers do not expect all transfer applicants to talk about never-before-seen topics in their college transfer essays.

Even a common topic can become fresh and exciting if the student discusses it from a unique perspective or gives it a surprising story arc. Needless to say, using an advanced or creative writing style can make any everyday topic new and exciting.

How do you cite sources in a transfer essay?

Compared to research and academic writing, a college essay, whether by a first-year applicant or a transferee applicant, is less formal. As such, using an established style of citing sources and providing a reference list is unnecessary.

The transfer applicant may instead cite sources casually in the essay, in practically any part where it will not disrupt the flow of thoughts.

How do you meet the word count limit?

Going past the word limit necessitates going over the transfer essay to eliminate any irrelevant details. Since brevity is an important component of a written piece, unnecessary words that clutter the submission should be removed, too.

On the other hand, sharing stories, feelings and insight by vividly describing them is a solution when struggling to reach the minimum word count.

What is a diversity essay?

A diversity essay is a supplementary essay some institutions of higher education or scholarships require that is focused on the unique identity, background, culture, beliefs or characteristics of the college applicant.

In most instances, a diversity essay is asked to be submitted as part of the admissions process where diversity is believed to be enriching for the campus community.

Recap: How to Write a Winning College Transfer Essay

In most instances, transfer applicants need to include a transfer essay in their application. There are recommended ways to open and close a transfer essay, such as the ones we talked about in this post, which can help increase one’s admissions chances — since transfer acceptance rates are generally lower, they need to ace every part of their application.

Transfer students, typically, have to talk about their experiences with their current school and their goals at the new school, which are things that admissions officers look for other than writing skill and creativity.

Take your time when writing your transfer essay because it’s an important component of your application.

Independent Education Consultant, Editor-in-chief. I have a graduate degree in Electrical Engineering and training in College Counseling. Member of American School Counselor Association (ASCA).

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Articles & Advice > Transfer Students > Articles

What You Need to Know About Writing a Good College Transfer Essay

Need inspiration for writing your transfer admission essay? Tell your story and showcase your best self with these tips, plus an example essay!

by CollegeXpress

Last Updated: Sep 25, 2023

Originally Posted: Jun 20, 2011

Your first college wasn’t a mistake—it was just your first step to your final academic home. And Your transfer application essays won’t differ much from when you wrote your college applications for first-year admission. But there are a few tips and tricks to help you write your best essay to find your dream institution the second time around.

What makes a good transfer essay?

You need to grab transfer admission counselors' attention right away. Try starting with a bold statement or some interesting dialogue to draw your readers in. Remember: admission staff read hundreds and sometimes thousands of essays, so yours needs to stand out even if you’re a transfer student and your pool of competition is smaller. Give transfer counselors a glimpse at what you are unique with just the right amount of detail. Often schools will give you a 500-word limit, so you need to learn to be succinct and tell the most important story you can. Also be sure to end your application essay with a strong statement that ties into earlier themes, bringing the essay full circle to a satisfying conclusion.

The story of your transfer experience

Often transfer students are asked to discuss what led them to change schools. You should address your reasons for transferring straightforwardly, without being defensive or negative. You should address why you want to transfer into your college(s) of interest specifically. Talk about your goals and aspirations, what your current college wasn’t meeting, and why you think the college you’re applying to could be the right place to provide that support you’re lacking.

Error-free essays

A good essay is also made of everything that’s not there: It's free of misspellings, an appropriate length, and there are no run-on sentences. And you can bet it was submitted well before the deadline! Meeting deadlines is crucial in the college application process, whether it’s the first time around or as a transfer. Even if your intended college has a rolling admission policy for transfer students, the earlier you submit your materials, the better. 

Related: How to Write a Transfer Essay That Will Impress Admission Officers

Transfer example essay

It’s easy to read about essay-writing tips, but that doesn’t necessarily make them easy to implement. The best way to learn is to see all these tips in action with a real transfer admission essay example that got a student admitted to his school of interest. Check it out below!

Dad Says…

“But Dad, I can do both!” I pleaded, doing my best not to raise my voice. He’d always been sure to remind me of the importance of not making a scene.

“I’m sorry, bud. We just signed you up for baseball. The answer is no. No.”

“Dad, you don’t understand. I need to take painting lessons.” I tried to look as defeated as possible, hoping his heart would break just enough for him to agree.

“Yeah, well you said that about skiing and guitar too. Baseball is your top priority right now, and it’s going to stay that way. Besides, sports teach you how to work in a team. Painting teaches you...how to mix colors.” He turned back to the television and cranked up the volume, and I knew I’d lost this one. I retreated to the kitchen table to finish the jigsaw puzzle I’d abandoned moments before.

I couldn’t really argue with my dad. As a kid, I frequently bounced from activity to activity, often hurrying from one to the next. It wasn’t that I got bored with what I was doing—I just couldn’t wait to try something new. Everything was interesting and everything was fun.

In high school, I became involved in as many extracurricular activities as I could, getting elected to student council and playing varsity baseball, joining groups like the school improvement team, and yes, even the art club. I was intrigued by nearly every class I took, eager to dissect things in physiology or pick apart the ideas of Faulkner in American literature. I’ve wanted to be everything from an engineer to a chef to a professional baseball player. A friend once described me as a guidance counselor’s worst nightmare.

Years of searching, experimenting, and learning have brought me here.

When my classmates crossed the stage at graduation, it felt like nearly everyone knew which direction they were headed. Friends were moving across the country to pursue their dreams, and I couldn’t even figure mine out. I had a strong academic record and plenty of experiences to shape my application, but watching my friends leave for four-year schools with such determination reminded me of how lost I actually was. It was time to figure things out for myself.

Enrolling at a two-year community college gave me the opportunity to sift through different areas of study and find what worked for me. General education courses and a varied curriculum offered a wide lens through which I could see what different fields had to offer and find a true fit. It wasn’t easy. I took classes ranging from applied sciences to ceramics, and—of course—I liked almost everything I tried! Then I took an anatomy and physiology course during the spring of my first year at ABC Community College, and it hit me. I realized that the medical field would allow me to help people while constantly learning and exploring different facets of the work.

After two years of studying, researching, and homework, I received an associate degree in pre-physical therapy, and I believe XYZ University is the next stop on my journey to achieve my dream.

It may have taken me longer to get here, and my path probably had a few more twists and turns in it than most, but every activity I begged my dad to let me do and every extracurricular club I joined complemented my coursework and shaped who I am. XYZ University’s physical therapy program will lead me to the necessary bachelor’s and doctoral degrees I need to succeed in a profession I know will leave me fulfilled—and hold my interest—throughout my professional life.

Related: How to Make Transferring Colleges as Seamless as Possible

Don’t stress too much about your transfer admission essay! It’s not that different from the first time around, and transfer students are often looked at separately from first-year students, as they usually take enrollment spots in higher grades. Show them who you are and why it’s important to you to find your new academic home, and you’re sure to gain admission to a great new school.

If you’re worried about overcoming the struggles of going to a new college, check out our article on  4 Potential Obstacles for Transfer Students and How to Conquer Them .

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•   Fighting for Your Education: An Expert Look Into Transfer Credits
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How to Transfer Colleges

After a long, challenging application process, you’ve finally arrived on campus. You’ve selected your classes, signed up for some clubs, and even met a few people that you get along with. But for whatever reason, your college still doesn’t feel like the best fit for you. With one quick Google search for “how to transfer colleges,” you’ve stumbled upon this college transfer guide.

So, if you’re wondering how to transfer colleges, you’ve come to the right place. You may be a community college transfer wondering if the school you have in mind is one of many transfer-friendly colleges. Or, maybe you’ve made up your mind and are looking for some transferring colleges advice.

Transferring colleges can be daunting. In this college transfer guide, we’ll break down the ins and outs of the college transfer process. That way, you can feel prepared to take the leap no matter where you’re transferring from.

In this article on how to transfer colleges, we’ll go over:

What are good reasons to transfer colleges.

• Navigating transfer applications
• GPA requirements for transfer applications
• Transferring to elite colleges (e.g. Harvard, Cornell, Stanford)
• What universities look for in a transfer student, and much more!

For answers to all these questions and tips on how to transfer colleges, keep reading our college transfer guide.

Can I transfer from one university to another?

If you want to know how to transfer colleges, you might have questions. Firstly, you may wonder, can I even transfer from one university to another? Simple answer: yes!

Most students who transfer colleges will do so after one or two years at their initial institution. After this point, it becomes more difficult to transfer colleges. Some credits might not transfer, and you may not be able to complete a degree at a school with different requirements within four years. In fact, many schools do not accept applications from students who have already completed two full years of postsecondary education. 

Understanding the college transfer process

The transfer process will look different at different schools. So, it’s important to do your research on the school’s policy before moving forward with transferring colleges. For instance, some schools might have different guidelines on when during the year you can transfer. Others may have certain GPA or credit requirements.

Additionally, some schools have a less selective process than others. These schools are considered more transfer friendly colleges. Some colleges, like UC Davis , have a more holistic and selective process for first year applicants than they do for transfer students. At these colleges, meeting the minimum academic requirements is the most important step in the transfer process.

Transferring from a community college

If you’re wondering, “how can I transfer to a four-year public university from a community college?” you’re not alone. Many students from community colleges transfer to four-year public universities.

If you’re planning on being a community college transfer, see if your college has a dedicated transfer center. Many community colleges have advisors who can help you through the process to transfer colleges. These advisors can help you find transfer friendly colleges and complete your application for transfer from one college to another. 

Other ways to transfer colleges

Students at community colleges aren’t the only ones who transfer colleges. If you’re thinking of transferring colleges simply because you’re unhappy at your original institution, that’s okay!

Remember, there are many reasons why you might want to transfer colleges. Maybe the courses offered aren’t specialized enough for your intended career path. Or, maybe the campus social life is too quiet or too focused on greek life. Maybe you even won the lottery and now want to attend one of the most expensive colleges in the U.S.! 

There are countless reasons you may be considering transferring. In the next section of our college transfer guide, let’s talk about some good reasons to transfer colleges. 

Maybe your worry isn’t “how to transfer colleges” but “ should I transfer colleges,” While looking for transferring colleges advice, remember it’s a personal decision, and ultimately that decision is up to you. If you aren’t sure what to do, keep reading for some insight as to why some students choose to transfer.

There are many reasons why students might want to transfer colleges. Initially attending a community college and wanting to transfer to a four-year public university. Dissatisfaction with the classes offered for your college major. Your extracurriculars for college, the social setting, financial reasons—the list goes on. Even as early as the first semester , you might know that you want to transfer colleges.

Your school doesn’t serve your academic interests

One reason to transfer colleges is that your current college doesn’t have the programs you need for your chosen major . Say your college major is mechanical engineering, and you’ve dreamed of 3D printing your own devices. However, the university you’re attending doesn’t have a 3D printer. 

Or, let’s say you want to study a less common college major such as Russian affairs. Like Derrick Staten , you might consider transferring to Stanford to take advantage of their unique resources. The Stanford U.S.-Russia Forum, the Hoover Archives, and the Center for Russian, East European and Eurasian Studies. You won’t find resources like these at every school!

If you find the department for your chosen college major doesn’t meet your needs, don’t panic. It may just mean it’s time to consider transferring colleges. 

Your interests have shifted

Maybe the reason you’re thinking “should I transfer colleges?” is because your interests have changed or developed. If you applied undecided, you may realize you want to pursue a degree not offered by your college.

Another reason can be the type of degree you want to pursue. Many community colleges are only two years, and you will graduate with an Associate’s Degree rather than a Bachelor’s. If you want a Bachelor’s Degree, you may need to become a community college transfer.

Your school isn’t the right fit

Many students consider transferring colleges simply because they feel the college they selected isn’t the best fit for them. Maybe you only applied to schools in the northeast because you had a great summer experience there. Then, you learn that the constant deluge of rain, sleet, snow, and cloudy days seriously dampens your mood. Or, maybe you and all your friends got into the same liberal arts college. Then, once you got to campus, you drifted apart and realized you only attended that school because of peer pressure.

If you feel a bit out of place, just remember to give your first college a fair chance. Many students feel homesick during the first semester and don’t make friends immediately. Those feelings alone are normal and may not be reason enough to embark on the difficult process of transferring colleges. 

Your financial situation has changed

Students also may be wondering how to transfer colleges for financial reasons. Your financial situation could have changed at home, or the college could have made changes to your financial aid package. If so, you might consider transferring to a less expensive college. That way, you can still get a stellar education while paying a lower tuition cost.

If you’re transferring colleges for financial reasons, always make sure to read the financial aid policies of the institution you’re looking to transfer to. (If you’re generally stressed about how to pay for college, we have resources to help you navigate the funding process).

Is it a good idea to transfer colleges?

We’ve covered the basics of how to transfer colleges. However, you might still be wondering whether it’s a good idea for you.

For some students, transferring colleges can ensure you graduate from a college that serves your needs. If the reasons to transfer colleges listed above resonate with you, that might mean that you should transfer.

Don’t focus on prestige

However, some students just want to transfer colleges to attend a more prestigious school, like Harvard or another Ivy. If you are applying to Harvard or Yale as a transfer, make sure to think hard about whether you are transferring colleges for reasons of prestige alone.

Transferring colleges is a lot of work: completing transfer applications is essentially like completing college applications again. Don’t let prestige or rankings influence you into transferring. The most important factor in deciding whether to transfer colleges is whether your college is the best fit for you!

Even if transferring ends up being the best choice for you, there are still challenges within the college transfer process. Read the next section of our college transfer guide to learn more about whether it’s hard to transfer universities. 

Is it hard to transfer universities?

You’ve learned a bit more about how to transfer colleges. But, you might still be wondering: how hard is it to transfer colleges? 

Transfer processes differ a lot from institution to institution. So, the process might be more difficult depending on where you decide to transfer to. However, you’ve navigated college applications once, so this is a challenge you can definitely handle!

Understanding transfer acceptance rates

Overall, there is a slightly lower average acceptance rate for transfer students than there is for first-time freshmen. Most Ivies also have significantly lower acceptance rates for transfer students than they do for first-time students. Notable exceptions to this include Cornell, Dartmouth, and Columbia.

While some prestigious schools like Cornell and Columbia might be considered transfer friendly colleges, others will be more selective. For a school like Harvard, the transfer acceptance rate is even lower than their already low first-year acceptance rate. If you’re trying to be a Harvard transfer, you’re up against a 0.8% acceptance rate. If you dream of being a Stanford transfer, like Derrick Staten, know the Stanford transfer acceptance rate is 0.02% .

Do your research

Make sure you do your research on how to transfer colleges. To navigate the process to transfer colleges, you must stay organized and get started as soon as you can. This means being aware of the deadlines , requirements, and policies of your school and the school you wish to transfer to. Remember that you’ll be applying to transfer colleges while continuing to take classes. Keeping up with your workload can be a challenge, so be sure to manage your time wisely.

Lastly, transferring colleges can potentially be socially stressful. Not everyone will necessarily be supportive of your decision to transfer colleges. You might have to deal with criticism from your family and peers as you choose the right path for you. People might offer you unsolicited transferring colleges advice, but don’t let others’ opinions discourage you. So, be sure you fully understand how to transfer colleges and have considered all your options. Then, if you’re sure you want to transfer colleges, you can be confident as you start the transfer process. 

Now let’s look at more specific transferring colleges advice—how to complete your transfer application.

What is a transfer application?

A key part of how to transfer colleges is understanding the transfer application. The transfer application is an application you’ll complete in order to transfer colleges. 

Just like with regular college applications, many transfer applications are done through the Common App . However, not all colleges use the Common App. Rather, some colleges will ask that you complete your transfer application on a separate portal.

Different transfer applications will have different requirements. Generally, your application for transfer from one college to another will request some or all of the following materials listed below.

General Transfer Application Requirements

• Common or Coalition Application
• Writing supplement 
• SAT/ACT scores
• College/Registrar/Dean’s Report
• Two recommendations from college instructors
• Official college transcript
• Official high school transcript
• Application fee

Make sure to double-check the requirements for each college on your list. The UCLA transfer application might have different requirements than a Stanford transfer application. A Harvard transfer might embark on a different process than a Rice University transfer.

Beyond the application, different universities require different college transfer credits. That means some credits might not carry over from your first school to your transfer school. This varies from school to school, so be thorough in your research on your school’s particular requirements.

The transfer essay

A key difference from your first set of college applications will be your essay. Your college transfer essay will likely touch on topics and experiences not covered in your previous essays.

For example, in your college transfer essay, you might be asked to write about your experience in college so far. Additionally, you will almost certainly need to state your reasons for transferring colleges. Remember, your college transfer essay is a chance to express yourself and let the admissions committee get to know you. So, make sure that you spend enough time brainstorming and writing your essay .

Highlight your accomplishments in college

When completing your college transfer application, think of it as your previous college applications plus your college experience so far. For example, you should balance your college resume with your high school accolades.

Your college resume should include your college GPA, college major, and any awards or leadership positions you’ve had at college. In addition to your college resume, you’ll likely need letters of recommendation from college professors instead of high school teachers. 

How do college transfers work?

In this section, we’ll outline in detail how to transfer colleges in five steps:

• Researching colleges.
• Building your college list
• Confirming your credit transfers
• Completing your application
• Investigating financial aid

1. Researching colleges

The first step in the process to transfer colleges is research. Without doing research on schools, you will not adequately know how to transfer colleges.

Look up each college and its transfer application requirements. Keep in mind all of the deadlines, as these will often be different for transfer students than first-year applicants. Additionally, investigate the resources available for transfer students: does the school offer orientation programs for transfer students? Do transfer students receive housing like first-years? What does the financial aid process look like? (Keep in mind that your financial aid package will not automatically apply at your new school). Some universities might even require a college application letter .

Research is one of the most important steps in understanding how to transfer colleges. So, make sure you spend time learning about different transfer friendly colleges.

2. Building a college list

The next step in understanding how to transfer colleges is to build a transfer college list .

In your senior year of high school, you likely applied to 10+ colleges. However, as a transfer student, you should aim for a more limited list. Not only should you feel confident you would like to attend every school on your list; you should also feel confident you’d like to attend it more than your current college.

3. Double-check your credit transfers

To know how to transfer colleges, you need to know how many credits you have earned at your first institution. Then, you need to check whether the school you wish to transfer to will accept your credits.

Look at which college transfer credits will apply to your target institutions. Different schools have different policies around college transfer credits, so be discerning as you research. College transfer credits might also influence the admissions requirements at different schools. 

4. Complete your college transfer application

Now, here’s the biggest step in how to transfer colleges: completing your application. To understand how to transfer colleges and how to fill out your transfer application, visit each school’s admissions website.

In many cases, the transfer application will be available through the Common App. However, this is not always true. A notable exception to this standard is the UC s. If you’re filling out a UC transfer application, you go through the UC’s specific transfer application process. This applies whether it’s a UCLA transfer application or a UC Berkeley transfer application. Just like for first-year students, the UC transfer application does not take place on the Common App, but through UC Apply . Remember the application requirements for your transfer application will be different from those of your college applications. Your college transfer essay will likely be different from your initial college essay. To write a strong college transfer essay, share your experience and the reasons you want to transfer colleges. Your college GPA will be important, as will a college resume that explains your college major and extracurriculars for college. You will also likely need a recommendation from a university professor. 

5. Understand financial aid

Lastly, to fully answer “should I transfer colleges,” you will need to investigate financial aid.

You’ve learned how to transfer colleges and have done your research. Then, you’ve figured out your college transfer credits. You’ve also written your college transfer essay. Finally, you’ve completed and submitted your transfer application. Now, you might just get an acceptance! When you receive your admissions letter , be sure to compare your financial aid package to your current one. In some cases, you could potentially negotiate your aid package to better meet your needs.

How to transfer colleges mid year

When trying to decide “should I transfer colleges,” a deciding factor might be when you can transfer colleges. In this section, we’ll help you learn how to transfer colleges mid-year. 

Not all colleges will permit you to transfer mid-year, though processes vary by school. For example, the Harvard transfer requirements state that you must have completed at least one full year of college and not more than two years. This is a pretty small window, so start doing your research on how to transfer colleges as soon as possible!

Transfer applicants to Harvard are only eligible to begin school in the fall semester. So, if your dream school is Harvard, double-check that your transfer schedule aligns with their requirements. However, if you’re set on transferring mid-year, look into an institution like Rice . Rice University transfer students are eligible to start in the spring.

The mid year transfer process

In general, transferring colleges mid-year will follow the same process as transferring for a fall start. The deadlines will likely differ (as the start times do). Another risk you take with attempting to transfer mid-year is your college transfer credits. If you transfer mid-year, your college transfer credits from the first half of the year might not transfer over. Additionally, you might not be able to get a partial refund on your full year’s tuition at your initial university.

If you are still asking yourself “should I transfer colleges mid-year,” make sure to consider all of these logistics. College transfer credits, school requirements, and funding are a significant part of the college transfer process. Understanding how to transfer colleges mid-year will be crucial to ensuring that your transfer process goes as smoothly as possible. 

What is a good GPA for transferring?

If you’re asking yourself, “should I transfer colleges?,” you might also be wondering “what’s a good GPA for transferring colleges?” There’s no universally good GPA to have as a transfer applicant. However, that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be a part of your how to transfer college strategy. Generally, students should aim for a GPA that meets or exceeds the average at the school they’re applying to. 

For example, the average GPA of admitted students who completed a 2022 UCLA transfer application was above 3.5. In fact, the academic requirements for students who want to submit a UCLA transfer application are quite high. Transfer applicants must have a GPA of at least 3.2 or higher in their transferable courses. 

The Rice University transfer requirements are similar. Applicants must have at least a 3.2 GPA to be considered for admission. In the majority of cases, students had a GPA well above Rice’s minimum requirement. Most students who were admitted into the Rice University transfer program had a GPA of 3.5 or higher. 

Transferring with a lower GPA

If your GPA is lower than 3.5, don’t give up yet! Other schools have less rigorous GPA requirements. The UC transfer application states that you must have at least a 2.4 GPA in UC-transferable courses. However, some majors might require a higher GPA in order to be considered for admission. 

When you transfer colleges, your college GPA matters far more than your high school grades. If you have already decided to transfer colleges, it’s important to keep your grades up. You’ll need to do well academically and earn as high a GPA as possible to make your application stand out.

Keeping your grades high

In other words, don’t let the transfer application process keep you from getting high grades in your current classes. You should focus on performing well academically within your college major as well as in your other college courses. Doing so is a key step of your overall “how to transfer colleges” strategy. 

In addition to your GPA, there are other factors to consider as you figure out how to transfer colleges. No matter your reason for transferring colleges or what school you want to transfer to, remember that your grades are important. You’ll need to do well academically to give yourself the best shot at receiving an acceptance as a transfer student.

Transferring to Elite Colleges

As you are researching how to transfer colleges, you might question what kind of schools you could transfer to. Specifically, you may be wondering if you are able to transfer to elite colleges, like Ivy League universities. The short answer is: it is possible to transfer colleges to an elite college. However, it is often a difficult process to submit an application for transfer from one college to another.

Lower acceptance rates

Transfer acceptance rates tend to be even lower at top colleges than they are for first-year students. This means that successfully navigating the transfer application process to an elite college is incredibly difficult. To give you a sense of the odds—transfer acceptance rates are usually less than 5%. 

Overall, there are very few spots available at elite colleges for transfer students. If you are going to submit an application for transfer from one college to another, you’ll want to do all you can to stand out.

Eligibility limitations

Additionally, not all institutions will give you the best transfer odds. At many elite colleges, students don’t generally transfer from a community college or professional school. In other words, elite schools tend to accept transfer students from liberal arts institutions with a similar curriculum. Unfortunately, this means they are not likely to accept a community college transfer student. 

However, this is not the case at all top colleges and elite institutions. For example, 92% of students admitted through their UC transfer application come from a California community college. 

If you answered yes to the question “should I transfer colleges?”, make sure you are ready to face some hurdles. This is especially true if your goal is to transfer to an elite college. Apart from elite institutions, there are other transfer friendly colleges out there that can still help you reach your goals.

What do universities look for in a transfer student?

As you prepare your “how to transfer colleges” plan, you’ll want to know what universities look for in transfer applications. Additionally, you’ll want to consider how your transfer applications will differ from regular college applications.

In many ways, schools look for the same core characteristics in transfer students that they look for in incoming freshmen. However, there’s one key difference. When you’re starting the transfer application process and applying as a transfer student, the focus isn’t on your high school achievements. Your grades and involvement in college will matter far more. 

Stay engaged on campus

This means that you should make an effort to engage in extracurriculars during your first year of college. This is important no matter when you decide you want to transfer. In other words, your extracurriculars for college will play an important role as you prepare to transfer colleges. 

Furthermore, you should also invest in your relationships with your instructors. This way, they can write you personalized recommendations that will strengthen your transfer application. 

Overall, colleges want to see that you would be a strong contributor to campus life. They also want to know that you would succeed academically if admitted. This is especially true if you are considering transferring colleges to an elite institution or switching your college major. 

Keep your GPA up

Aside from your extracurriculars for college, your college GPA is key. Make sure your freshman-year courses reflect your academic strengths. Even if you had high grades in high school, your college GPA will still matter more in your transfer application. 

However, some students who want to transfer haven’t performed well academically or have not actively participated in extracurriculars at their current college. If this sounds like you, you might need to re-evaluate your answer to the “should I transfer colleges?” question. And that’s okay! Use this college transfer guide to determine if your profile matches what universities are looking for in a transfer student. 

If you are set on transferring, be sure to do your research on whatever school you want to apply to. Then, you’ll want to strengthen your “how to transfer colleges” strategy early in the process. That way, your personal college transfer guide is set up to maximize your chances of admission. 

Is it easier to get into college as a transfer?

The process of transferring colleges may seem fairly similar to the process of first-year college applications. Now, let’s examine if it is easier to get into college as a transfer student.

In a word, no. It is not easier to get into college as a transfer. According to NACAC , the average transfer student acceptance rate is lower than the average first-year acceptance rate. The average is about 5% lower among U.S. universities. This means that your chances of being admitted are lower than if you had applied as a first-year applicant. 

Additionally, top schools tend to have high retention rates. This means that most students admitted as freshmen continue on to their sophomore year. With limited places available, this leaves little room for transfer students in the transferring colleges process. 

However, don’t let these statistics discourage you from following your “how to transfer colleges” plan. If you’ve answered yes to the “should I transfer colleges” question, there are ways to successfully navigate the transfer process. We’ll elaborate on how to transfer colleges successfully later in this college transfer guide. 

Does Harvard accept transfer students?

So, you answered yes to the “should I transfer colleges” question. Now, you are ready to learn more about how to transfer colleges to elite institutions, like Harvard. 

Your first question might be, does Harvard accept transfer students? The answer is yes, Harvard does accept transfer students. 

The Harvard transfer program accepts an average of 12 students each fall. As we mentioned above, the Harvard transfer program is looking for students that will integrate easily into the college. At such a rigorous institution, they’re especially looking for students who will perform well academically.

What Harvard looks for

When evaluating transfer students for admission, the Harvard transfer program is looking at the following characteristics : 

• A clear and defined academic reason for transferring colleges
• A demonstrated record of achievement at your current college 
• Strong recommendations from faculty members

There are other eligibility requirements you must meet in order to submit a transfer application to Harvard. First, you must have completed at least one continuous academic year in a full-time degree program. However, you cannot have completed more than two years. If you have completed more than two continuous academic years at your current school, you are not eligible to transfer. 

Second, your current institution must offer a liberal arts curriculum similar to that of Harvard. Students who are trying to transfer colleges from certain programs will not qualify to submit a  Harvard transfer application. These types of programs may include vocational, professional, online, technical, or performance programs.

Now, let’s say you meet the criteria for transferring colleges to Harvard. Next, you’ll want to understand what the admissions office is looking for in a successful transfer application. 

Building a strong Harvard transfer application

The Harvard admissions committee looks for evidence of achievement in your chosen program of study or college major. This means you need to have strong grades, test scores (if applicable), and recommendation letters included with your transfer application. Harvard will also consider other, non-academic factors. These include extracurricular involvements and talents as well as a candidate’s leadership abilities, intellectual curiosity, and creativity. 

Harvard accepts transfer students for the fall semester only. So, students cannot apply to begin taking courses in the spring. The transfer application opens in the fall and the deadline to submit all application materials is March 1. Candidates are then notified of their admission decision in June.  

In order to be considered for admission, transfer students must provide the following materials to the Harvard admissions committee.

Harvard Transfer Requirements 

• Transfer application available on the Coalition Application or Common Application
• Harvard College questions and college transfer essay supplement
• Standardized test scores (optional)
• College/Dean’s/Registrar’s report
• College transcript
• Two instructor letters of recommendation  
• High school transcript 
• College resume (optional)
• Other supplemental materials, like a college application letter

Students that are successful at transferring colleges to Harvard receive special perks. These offerings are Harvard-specific, and you may not find them at all transfer friendly colleges. 

For example, Harvard provides a dedicated transfer advisor to all incoming transfer students. They also participate in an orientation program targeted toward transfer students. These are important benefits to consider as you conduct your “how to transfer colleges” research. 

According to the 2021-2022 Common Data Set, the Harvard acceptance rate for transfer students was just .8% . If you are hoping to transfer colleges to an elite institution like Harvard, you’ll need a game plan. We recommend crafting a strong transfer application, college transfer essay, and college resume to stand out from the crowd. 

Does Cornell accept transfer students?

Now that we know more about how to transfer colleges, you might be curious about other elite institutions. Like Harvard, the Cornell transfer program does accept transfer students. In fact, unlike some other Ivies, the Cornell transfer program is fairly large. So, they make a particular point to welcome transfer students, making them one of the more transfer friendly colleges. 

Cornell Transfer Application Requirements

• The Transfer Common Application
• Academic evaluation
• College report 
• Mid-term report
• Cornell University college transfer essay and writing supplement
• Official high school and college transcripts 
• $80 application fee
• Other items as required per undergraduate college or school

The Cornell transfer program accepts between 500-600 transfer students each fall and spring semester. Their acceptance rate for transfer students is 15.7% – higher than their acceptance rate for freshman applicants. 

Although they have a high transfer acceptance rate, the Cornell transfer process is still challenging. To be considered for admission, students must provide the application materials listed above.

Next, let’s take a look at another school you may be considering if you’re thinking about how to transfer colleges.

Is Stanford hard to transfer into?

In short, yes. Like many elite schools, Stanford is difficult to transfer into. The Stanford transfer application process itself is fairly straightforward, but the competition is fierce. 

There are two main requirements to apply for transfer admission to Stanford. Applications are open to students who earned a high school diploma and have completed coursework at an accredited degree-granting institution. 

Credit transfers at Stanford

Unlike Harvard, the Stanford transfer program does consider students who have completed college credits in an associate’s program. In other words, you can be a community college transfer and apply for admission to the Stanford transfer program. 

College transfer credits are reviewed by the Office of the Registrar. The Stanford transfer program does not have a specific transfer pathway with any other college or institution. However, it is not guaranteed that all your college transfer credits will be accepted. 

In order to receive your college transfer credits, you must meet the following conditions : 

• Course(s) must be completed at an accredited institution
• Course(s) must be considerably similar to courses offered at Stanford 
• A grade of C- or better is earned for each course
• Previous coursework is not duplicated or overlapped

If you meet the Stanford transfer eligibility requirements, you can submit a Stanford transfer application to the admissions committee. You’ll need to include the following components in your Stanford transfer application: 

Stanford transfer requirements

• Common Application 
• ACT or SAT scores
• Official high school transcript 
• College report
• Two letters of recommendation from academic instructors

The deadline to submit a Stanford transfer application is March 15 . Candidates will be notified of their admission decision by mid-May. 

If you are hoping to transfer colleges to Stanford, you’ll also need to consider the Stanford transfer acceptance rate in your “how to transfer colleges” strategy. In general, the Stanford transfer acceptance rate is far lower than the first-year acceptance rate.  Given the low Stanford transfer acceptance rate, you’ll want to do all you can to make your transfer application stand out. 

How to Transfer Colleges – 5 Takeaways

We hope our guide on how to transfer colleges helped illuminate the transfer process. As you continue your how to transfer colleges research, keep these five key takeaways for transferring colleges in mind: 

1. Do your research

Understanding the process of how to transfer colleges is not easy. Each school will have their own policies and procedures on how to transfer colleges. So, it’s important to do your research on the transfer process if you are hoping to transfer colleges. You’ll need to know about the transfer application requirements as well as all deadlines . (Remember, these will be different for transfer students than for other first-year applicants). 

There are some more transfer friendly colleges than others. As with any first-time college list, you should compare these as you build your transfer college list. Pay attention to things like transfer acceptance rates and how a school handles college transfer credits. Additionally, take note of policies regarding your current institution.

Choose a few colleges that fit your goals. As you research how to transfer colleges, make sure your potential new college offers your ideal college major. You’ll also want to make sure they have support procedures in place to help you successfully transfer colleges. 

Remember, the more you know about how to transfer colleges, the easier the process will be!

2. Set realistic goals

Transferring colleges takes a lot of work since you are essentially beginning the entire college application process over again. Additionally, many of the transfer application deadlines are during the academic year. So, you’ll need to balance your full-time coursework with transfer college applications. 

To make your transfer process as simple as possible, build a timeline. Breaking down your tasks into realistic goals will help you stay organized throughout the transferring colleges process. 

This should be one of the first things you tackle in your “how to transfer colleges” strategy. Start your transfer college applications early and use our transferring colleges advice to inform your goals. 

3. Keep your college grades up

As we mentioned above, admissions committees will evaluate you on the grades you earn in college. If you know you want to transfer colleges, be sure to keep your college grades up.

This might be the most important piece of transferring colleges advice in this college transfer guide. Earning high college grades can help you stand out in the transfer application process. Additionally, they prove to your future institution that you are able to handle the rigor of their academic program. 

4. Stay engaged on campus

Another important step in your “how to transfer colleges” strategy is to stay engaged on campus. In other words, you need to build up your college resume for your transfer application. This means that you should find and participate in student activities, organizations, or internships that interest you. These activities may be considered even more valuable if they relate to your college major. 

Just like your first-year college applications, your transfer application will ask you to list the extracurriculars you participated in. Staying engaged on campus will ensure that you have plenty of experience to reference on your college resume—even if your current college isn’t your dream school. 

5. Consider financial aid

The last key takeaway in your “how to transfer colleges” plan is to consider financial aid . This is an important step to take before you transfer colleges. Keep in mind, your current financial aid package will not automatically apply to your new institution. So, it’s important to review all financial aid policies early in the transfer process. 

Once you receive your admission decision (but before you finally transfer colleges) you should compare your financial aid packages. How does the cost of attending your potential new college compare to your current tuition costs? Will you be paying more per year if you transfer colleges? Can you afford to transfer colleges at this time?

In some cases, you may be able to negotiate your financial aid package. However, if you are unable to negotiate, you should be ready and able to pay additional tuition costs if necessary. If you are not financially prepared to transfer colleges right now, don’t worry. You may just need to do some more research on which colleges you can afford. 

How to Transfer Colleges- Final thoughts

As you navigate how to transfer colleges, keep this advice in mind. Although the process to transfer colleges is difficult, it is not impossible! You can maximize your chances of transfer admission by following the transferring colleges advice listed in this college transfer guide. 

We hope our college transfer guide provided you with some actionable steps to incorporate into your “how to transfer colleges” strategy.  If you have more questions about how to transfer colleges, CollegeAdvisor.com is here to help. We can provide you with one-on-one assistance as you navigate the transfer application and admissions process, as well as give you personalized transferring colleges advice to get you to your dream school .

This guide to how to transfer colleges was written by advisor Rachel Kahn and senior advisor Claire Babbs . Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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Application guide for transfer students

Get tips and best practices for putting together your best application.

What is Common App for transfer?

Common App for transfer is an online application that makes applying to college faster and easier. Through a single platform, you'll be able to search for and apply to any one of the more than 600 colleges that accept Common App for transfer. Whether you're applying to transfer from another 4-year institution or community college or looking to continue your path towards a degree by re-enrolling, Common App for transfer can help you get to where you want to be.

Gather materials

The info you’ll need to start your application

Filling out your application takes time.

• Some programs you apply to might ask you to provide this information. You can see what each program on your list requires in the College Coursework area of the Academic History section.
• You also have the option to add any continuing education courses you have taken.

Some programs will ask you to report these test scores. You can check the testing policy of the programs on your list in the Program Materials section.

On Common App for transfer, you have the option to share your experiences, things like research, internships, volunteer work, and more. This is the place to show colleges what makes you unique.

Create an account

Take the first step in the application process

Creating an account is simple.

Counselor tip.

Use an email address that you check regularly.

Colleges may need to get in touch with you regarding your application.  

Add programs

Add the programs to which you will apply

Now that you’ve created your account and explored schools that accept Common App, it’s time to start adding some programs to your application.

Engage supporters.

Get letters of recommendation and school forms

In addition to your application, many colleges ask for additional documents to be submitted by recommenders on your behalf.

Transcript collection.

Submit your college coursework, if required

Some programs may ask for official or unofficial transcripts. Others may not ask for any at all.

Get ready to begin your journey

Walk through the transfer application with us before you apply.

Find additional support at the help center