How to find your fit as a transfer student

So, you’ve made the big decision to transfer colleges. It doesn't matter if you started at a community college or a four-year university. This is a new chance to find the right school for your goals, interests and future plans.

Start with a self-check

Transferring isn’t just about leaving a place that didn’t work for you, it’s about finding somewhere that does. Think about what felt wrong at your last school and consider what you want from your next college experience.

What kind of academic programs excite you? Do you prefer small classes or large lectures? Are you looking for more campus involvement or a stronger sense of community? Do you want to be closer to home, or someplace completely new?

Having a better understanding of your own priorities will make it much easier to know a good fit when you see it.

Research, research, research

Once you know what you’re looking for, do some research. Look for colleges that offer strong programs that interest you and that have a good reputation for supporting transfer students.

Some good starting points for your research include:

• Transfer credit policies: How many of your credits will transfer? Will you lose time or need to retake courses
• Program strength: Does the school offer the major, minor or concentration you want?
• Transfer services: Is there a dedicated office or team to help with the transfer process?
• Student life: Will there be opportunities to get involved, even as a junior or senior?

Connect with the campus

Nothing beats seeing a college for yourself. If possible, schedule a campus visit specifically designed for transfer students. Many colleges offer tours and even one-on-one meetings with transfer admissions coordinators.

While you’re there, picture yourself walking around, going to class or grabbing coffee with friends. Try to get a feel for the vibe. Does it align with what you’re looking for?

If you can't visit in person, you can still get a feel for a school’s culture and community through virtual tours, student panels and by checking out the school’s social media accounts.

Make a transfer plan

Once you’ve narrowed down your list, it’s time to plan out your next steps.

Here are some helpful things to add to your to-do list:

• Request your transcripts: Most schools will want official transcripts from any colleges you’ve attended. You may get asked for your high school transcript, too.
• Know the deadlines: Transfer application deadlines can be different from first-year deadlines, so stay on top of them.
• Write a personal statement: Many transfer applications include an essay. Be honest about why you’re transferring, what you’ve learned and what you hope to accomplish at your new school.
• Apply for financial aid: Be sure to complete the FAFSA. A lot of times, schools have scholarships just for transfer students.

Think about the long term

As a transfer student, you may feel like you’re jumping in halfway through, but that doesn’t mean your college years can’t be meaningful and fulfilling.

Look for a college that supports transfer students beyond admissions and helps prepare you to grow personally and professionally.

Schools that offer things like transfer student orientation or mentorship programs; meaningful student organizations; and internship, research or career opportunities can give you all the tools you need to succeed from day one through graduation and beyond.

Trust your instincts

Sometimes, finding the right fit isn’t about checking every box, it’s about how a place makes you feel. After all your research, visits and planning, pause and listen to your gut.

Do you feel excited about this new school? Does it feel like a place where you can be yourself, make friends and do your best work? 

Transferring can be intimidating, but it’s also a chance to take control of your future. You’re not starting over, you’re moving forward.

Final thoughts

As a transfer student, you add value to any college community. You bring perspective, resilience and a clear idea of your goals. Choosing the right college is about more than just academics, it’s about finding a place where you can grow, belong and thrive.

So do the research, make a plan, schedule that campus visit and keep your goals in sight.

Central Michigan University makes the transfer process as seamless as possible, allowing students to transfer up to 60 credit hours towards a bachelor’s degree. On top of that, you may also qualify for transfer scholarships that don’t require an essay or another application. Just apply to CMU and we’ll take care of the rest.

If you have questions about the transfer process, Central Michigan University’s team of transfer coordinators are here to help! Whether you’re curious about credits, application details, academic advising or any step along the journey, they’ve got the answers you need.