Understanding International Transfer Student Status: Am I One?

International transfer students are those who have graduated from high school and were or are currently enrolled in a college or university for a minimum number of credits and wish to transfer to a new institution. The process of transferring universities as an international student can be complicated and involves understanding the application requirements and transfer policies of both the current and new institutions. This includes the minimum number of credits required to be considered a transfer student and the number of credits that can be transferred to the new institution.

Characteristics of an International Transfer Student:

Understanding application requirements

Eligibility Criteria

Firstly, you need to meet the eligibility criteria to be considered an international transfer student. This typically means that you are not a citizen or permanent resident of the country to which you are applying. For example, in the United States, an international transfer student is someone who is not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and has graduated from high school, enrolling in another college or university for at least 12 semester hours post-high school graduation.

Academic Requirements

Different universities will have different academic requirements for transfer students. These requirements may include a minimum number of credits or college-level courses completed at your current university. Some universities may also require a minimum GPA. It is important to research the specific requirements of your desired university. Additionally, if you are transferring from a university outside of the country you are transferring to, you may need to obtain an evaluation of the classes you have taken. This process can take several weeks, so it is important to start early.

English Language Proficiency

If you are applying to a university in a country where the primary language is not your native language, you will likely need to demonstrate English language proficiency. This can be done through language tests or by providing transcripts of English language courses you have taken.

Application Process

The application process for international transfer students can vary depending on the university. It is important to follow the specific instructions provided by your desired university. Some universities may require you to create an account on their application portal, while others may have different procedures. Additionally, there may be specific deadlines for international transfer students, so it is important to be aware of these dates.

Immigration Considerations

If you are transferring to a university in another country, you will need to consider the immigration process. This may include obtaining a student visa, transferring your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record, and maintaining your legal immigration status during the transfer process.

Supplemental Items

Universities may require additional supplemental items as part of the application process. These could include transcripts, course descriptions, or other supporting documents. It is important to carefully review the requirements and submit all the necessary documents to ensure a complete application.

Credit transfer process

The credit transfer process for international students can vary depending on the university and country. However, there are some general steps and considerations that are common across institutions. Here is a detailed guide to help you understand the process:

Understanding Your Status as an International Transfer Student:

As outlined in the definition, an international transfer student is someone who is not a citizen or permanent resident of the country in which they are seeking higher education. For example, in the United States, an international transfer student is an individual who does not hold U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, nor do they have refugee or political asylum status. Understanding your status is essential for knowing the specific requirements and processes that apply to international students.

Evaluating Transferable Credits:

The transferability of credits depends on the university's policies and the specific program you are applying to. Some universities, like Truman State University, allow an unlimited number of credits to be transferred from another university. However, these credits may not necessarily meet the degree requirements, and you will still need to complete a minimum number of credit hours at your new university to qualify for a degree.

Academic Transfer Process:

The academic transfer process typically involves an evaluation of your previous coursework to determine if it fulfills the requirements of your intended program at the new university. This process can vary in timeline, so it is recommended to start early. Universities may require official transcripts, course descriptions, and syllabi in English, along with certified translations if the original documents are not in English.

Immigration Transfer Process:

For international students, there is also an immigration aspect to the transfer process. In the United States, this involves transferring your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record from your current school to the new one. The SEVIS transfer process includes setting a date for the transfer of responsibility for your student record and ensuring the new school updates and activates your record.

Language Proficiency Requirements:

International transfer students may need to demonstrate English language proficiency, especially if they are transferring with fewer than 60 credits. Universities may have specific requirements, such as a minimum grade on an English course or a standardized test score.

Application and Admission:

The application process for international transfer students can vary by university. Some universities, like YSU, require you to create an account on their application portal and submit all necessary documents, including transcripts and course descriptions. After submitting your application, you can expect to receive updates on any missing supplemental items. The admission decision typically takes around 10-14 business days after your application is complete.

Obtaining Necessary Paperwork:

Once you are admitted to the new university, you will need to obtain the necessary paperwork to finalize your transfer. In the U.S., this often includes obtaining an Initial Form I-20, which certifies your eligibility for F-1 academic student or M-1 vocational student status. This process may vary depending on your visa status and the specific requirements of your destination country.

Remember to carefully review the requirements and processes of the university and country you are transferring to. Each institution has its own set of guidelines, so staying informed will help ensure a smooth transition.

English language requirements

To be considered an international transfer student, you must be an international applicant who has graduated from high school and has been or is currently enrolled in another college or university for at least 12 semester hours following high school graduation. An international applicant is anyone who is not a US citizen or permanent resident or does not hold refugee or political asylum status.

As an international transfer student, you must demonstrate English language proficiency. The specific requirements vary depending on the university and your number of credits. For instance, FIU's English language requirements are as follows:

• Transfer students with 60 or more credits can prove language proficiency by meeting the criteria outlined by their admissions counsellor.
• Transfer students with fewer than 60 credits must meet the Florida Board of Governors' language requirements, which include ENC 1101 (or its equivalent) or an SAT/ACT test.
• Applicants from non-English speaking countries, including internationally educated American students, must demonstrate proficiency in English by achieving a C or better in ENC 1101 at an accredited US institution.

Additionally, YSU requires international transfer students to request that the test centre send the official Language Test Report directly to the Office of International Admissions (code: 1975) unless English Proficiency is waived. All documents should be submitted in their original language, along with certified translated copies, unless the issuing institution provides them in English.

It is important to note that English language requirements for transfer students can be complex, and there may be multiple ways to demonstrate proficiency without testing. Therefore, it is recommended to consult the specific requirements of your intended university.

Immigration considerations

Firstly, it is important to understand the definition of an international transfer student. An international transfer student is someone who is not a citizen of the country in which they are applying to study and has previously completed some form of higher education. In the US, this means that an international transfer student is anyone who is not a US citizen or permanent resident and has completed at least 12 semester hours of college or university credits.

Secondly, it is important to be aware of the documentation required for international transfer students. This can include official transcripts, course descriptions, and proof of English language proficiency. For example, FIU requires evaluations from any NACES member evaluation service for all international post-secondary coursework. Additionally, as an international student, you may need to obtain a visa to study in your chosen country. In the US, this is known as an F-1 visa, and students must also have a Form I-20, which certifies their eligibility for F-1 status.

Thirdly, it is crucial to understand the transfer process for your student visa. In the US, this involves transferring your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record to your new school. The SEVIS transfer process includes setting a date for transferring responsibility for the student's record and maintaining the same SEVIS ID number. It is important to note that you must continue to attend classes at your current school until the SEVIS release date. Additionally, you should be aware that transferring schools may impact your visa status, and you should follow the instructions provided by your designated school official (DSO) to maintain your legal immigration status.

Finally, it is essential to start the transfer process early, as it can be complicated and time-consuming. There may be specific deadlines and requirements for transferring credits and evaluating courses that you have taken at your previous institution. It is recommended to begin the process months in advance to ensure you have enough time to meet all the application requirements.

Deadlines

Understanding Deadlines

• Application Deadlines: Universities typically set deadlines for receiving transfer applications. These deadlines can vary among institutions, and it is essential to check the specific dates for your desired university. The application deadlines may differ for different terms, such as Spring, Summer, or Fall admissions.
• Credit Transfer Deadlines: The transfer of academic credits from your current or previous institution to the new university may also have deadlines. For example, at YSU, the credit transfer process can only begin after the official college transcripts are received.
• SEVIS Transfer Deadlines: If you are an international student in the United States transferring between universities, you must consider the deadlines associated with the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) transfer. The SEVIS transfer process involves electronically moving your SEVIS record from one school to another while retaining the same SEVIS ID number. The transfer release date is crucial, as it is when your SEVIS record is officially released to the new school.
• I-20 Form Issuance Deadlines: The I-20 form is crucial for international students, as it certifies their eligibility for F-1 academic or M-1 vocational student status. Universities may have deadlines for issuing the I-20 form, and it is typically required before enrolling at the new university.
• Enrollment Deadlines: Universities often have deadlines for enrolling in their programs. As an international transfer student, you must complete the necessary steps, including submitting transcripts, evaluations, and the International Transfer Student Standing Form, before the enrollment deadline.

In summary, deadlines play a critical role in the process of becoming an international transfer student. It is important to stay informed about the specific deadlines applicable to your desired university and transfer situation. Being mindful of these deadlines will help ensure a smooth transition and maintain your legal student status.

Frequently asked questions