Lana Oconnell
International students can transfer to another university in the US, and most colleges accept international transfer students. There are three main transfer options for international students: transferring from a university in their home country, transferring from a US two-year community college, or transferring from one four-year US university to another. The transfer process varies depending on the student's situation and the universities involved. Students should be mindful of the universities' enrollment deadlines and application requirements, as well as the potential impact on their financial aid and credit transfers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common types of transfers in the US | Community college to a 4-year institution, 4-year institution to another 4-year institution |
| Transferring schools on an F-1 visa | Requires transferring the SEVP record and retaining the same SEVIS ID number for the student |
| Transferring schools with an F-1 visa | Requires a new Form I-20 |
| Transferring from a university in the home country | Requires an early start to the process and an evaluation of classes taken |
| Transferring from a US two-year community college | Requires transferring to a four-year college with a pre-approved program |
| Transferring from a four-year US university to another US university | Requires meeting enrollment deadlines and gathering required documents |
| Transferring credits from one school to another | Requires careful choice of class load and college to ensure maximum credit transfer |
| Applying to transfer as an international student | Requires academic credentials, transcripts, and standardized English language tests |
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What You'll Learn
Transferring from a university in your home country
If you are an international student and you want to transfer from a university in your home country to another university in the same country, you should be aware that the process may be different from that of a domestic student. You will likely need to obtain an evaluation of the classes you have taken at your current university, and this can take several weeks. Due to differences in academic systems, some credits may or may not be transferable to your new university, and your GPA may be calculated differently.
Before considering any transfer options, it is recommended that international students take English proficiency tests, such as the TOEFL, and any required college admissions exams. It is also important to apply months in advance to ensure that you have enough time to meet application requirements and that you are aware of any deadlines. You should also research the transfer policies of the universities to which you plan to apply.
When transferring from a university in your home country to another in the same country, you must make the transfer official by having it confirmed by all relevant parties: yourself, both universities, and any other bodies who may be involved. You should also be aware that transferring universities might affect your eligibility for financial aid. While some colleges and universities give financial aid to international students only if they are first-year applicants, others offer scholarships specifically to international transfer students.
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Transferring from a US two-year community college
International students can transfer from a US two-year community college to a four-year university. This is a common transfer pathway in the US, with 39,000 students completing this transfer in 2023.
There are a few key steps to follow when transferring from a US two-year community college to a four-year university as an international student. Firstly, it is important to understand your career, academic, and life goals, and choose a university that aligns with these goals. You should also research the transfer process and requirements for your desired university, as these can vary between institutions. It is recommended to apply months in advance to ensure you have enough time to meet application requirements and deadlines.
It is also important to consider the transfer of credits. While most credits from community college are transferable to a four-year institution, not every credit will transfer, and some may only count as electives. To maximize the number of credits that transfer, you should choose your courses strategically and consider taking a transfer program at a two-year college, which includes the same types of courses that you would take in your first two years at a four-year college.
Additionally, you should be aware of any financial implications of transferring. Applying as an international transfer student may affect your eligibility for financial aid, as some colleges only offer financial aid to first-year international applicants. However, some schools offer scholarships specifically for international transfer students.
Finally, once you have been accepted to your new university, you will need to coordinate with both your current and new school to establish a transfer release date and ensure a smooth transition of your student record.
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Transferring from a US four-year university to another US school
The process of transferring as an international student can be confusing and complicated, so it is important to understand the steps involved, the application process, and the requirements. Firstly, it is recommended to speak with a student advisor or course coordinator about your transfer plans. They can guide you on the university's transfer policy, financial obligations, and any visa considerations. Each university has its own transfer policies, application requirements, and deadlines, so it is essential to do your research.
As an international transfer student, you will typically need to submit academic credentials or transcripts from your previous institution. If your transcript is in a language other than English, it must be translated. Additionally, English proficiency tests such as the TOEFL or IELTS are usually required, along with college admissions exams. It is important to check the specific requirements of your chosen university, as some may have unique criteria for transfer students.
When transferring between US universities as an international student, you will also need to consider the maintenance of your student visa status. This involves transferring your SEVIS record and obtaining a new I-20 form, which certifies your eligibility for F-1 student status. The Designated School Official (DSO) at your current and new universities will play a crucial role in facilitating this process.
Lastly, it is important to start the transfer process early, as course evaluations and credit transfers can take time. Gathering the required documents and coordinating with advisors from both your current and prospective universities will ensure a smooth transition.
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Understanding the transfer policies of both universities
International students may consider transferring universities for various reasons, including financial changes, a more rewarding program at another university, or experiencing culture shock. While transferring universities is a common practice in the US, with approximately 2.1 million college students transferring between institutions in the 2020-2021 academic year, it is important to understand the transfer policies of both the current and prospective universities.
Transfer policies can vary among universities, and it is crucial for international students to carefully research and understand the specific requirements and processes involved. Here are some key aspects to consider when understanding the transfer policies of both universities:
- Academic Transfer: This includes the admission process and the evaluation of transferable credits. Most US colleges and universities accept international transfer students and allow the transfer of previously earned credits. However, it is important to note that some credits may or may not be transferable to the new university, and there may be differences in how the GPA is calculated.
- Immigration Transfer: For international students, the transfer process also involves updating the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record. The SEVIS transfer process ensures that the student's SEVIS identification (ID) number remains the same, and the new university issues an updated Form I-20, certifying the student's eligibility for F-1 academic or M-1 vocational student status.
- Application Requirements: Universities may have different requirements for transfer students, including academic transcripts, English proficiency tests (such as TOEFL or IELTS), letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores. It is important to coordinate with advisors from both universities to ensure all required documentation is submitted.
- Transfer Deadlines: Transfer policies may include specific deadlines for transferring. While it is common for students to transfer after their first or second year, some universities allow transfers at any time, while others may have more restricted timelines.
- Financial Aid: Applying as a transfer student may impact financial aid eligibility. While some universities offer scholarships specifically for international transfer students, others may only provide financial aid to first-year applicants. It is important to review the financial aid policies of both universities.
- University Partnerships: Some universities have partnerships with community colleges or other institutions, which can make transferring easier and more seamless. Understanding these partnerships can help streamline the transfer process and ensure the maximum transfer of credits.
By thoroughly researching and understanding the transfer policies of both the current and prospective universities, international students can navigate the transfer process effectively and make informed decisions about their academic journey.
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Maintaining legal immigration status
International students on an F-1 visa can maintain their legal immigration status while transferring schools by following the necessary procedures and maintaining their student status. Here are some key points to consider:
Designated School Officials (DSOs) and SEVIS Records:
- DSOs play a crucial role in the transfer process and maintaining legal status. They are responsible for transferring the student's SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) record to the new school.
- Students should work closely with DSOs at both the transfer-out and transfer-in schools to ensure a smooth transition and maintain their legal status.
- It is important to follow the instructions provided by the DSO at the transfer-in school, as they will guide you through the process of maintaining your legal status.
Form I-20 and Reinstatement:
- Obtaining an updated Form I-20 is essential. This form reflects the student's new program start date and transfer details.
- Students should ensure they receive a new valid Form I-20 as soon as possible after the transfer release date.
- In some cases, a reinstatement application may be required. It is important to report on the record release date to file a timely reinstatement application or obtain an updated Form I-20.
Deadlines and Timing:
- Students must be mindful of deadlines. They should report to the new school no later than 15 days before the program start date.
- Choosing the SEVIS release date carefully is important. If transferring in the middle of a semester, students must continue attending classes at the transfer-out school until the SEVIS release date.
Maintaining Student Status:
- F and M students must take action to maintain their legal status. This includes fulfilling the purpose for which their visa was issued and following associated regulations.
- Students should not engage in any unauthorized work. Working without authorization will result in immediate departure from the US and possible future re-entry issues.
- Students must maintain their full-time student status, English proficiency, and sufficient funds for self-support during their studies.
- Any changes to the student's major, program, degree level, or travel plans should be discussed with the DSO to ensure legal status is maintained.
Visa Requirements:
- Students must ensure they have the correct visa for their studies. F and M visas are the most common for international students.
- If a student's plans change, they may need to request a change in their nonimmigrant status through USCIS.
- Students should be mindful of deadlines and departure requirements to avoid overstaying and maintain their legal status.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can transfer to another university in the US. There are three transfer options for international students: transferring from a university in their home country, transferring from a US two-year community college, or transferring from a US four-year university to another US university.
The process for transferring to another university as an international student involves the following steps: selecting a new university, gathering required documents, submitting an application, and transferring your SEVIS record. It is recommended to start the process early and contact the universities for their specific transfer policies and requirements.
Some key considerations for international students when transferring universities include the transfer of credits, financial factors, eligibility for financial aid, and maintaining legal immigration status during the transfer process. It is important to carefully choose the requested SEVIS release date and follow instructions from the Designated School Official (DSO) at the new university.
