International Students: Freshmen Or Transfer?

International students can apply to US colleges and universities as freshmen or as transfer students. There are several reasons why an international student may choose to apply as a transfer student, including lower costs, the opportunity to improve their GPA, and the chance to explore different subjects before committing to a four-year program. Additionally, some schools may not require SAT scores or essays from transfer applicants. However, it's important to note that the transfer process and requirements can vary by school and academic program, and applying as a transfer student may affect eligibility for financial aid at certain institutions.

Can international students apply as freshmen instead of transfer?

International students can save money by attending community college first

International students can save a significant amount of money by attending a community college in the US before transferring to a four-year university. Community colleges offer a more affordable option for international students, with tuition and fees costing thousands of dollars less per year compared to public and private universities. For example, the 2020-2021 tuition and fees for international students at Pasadena City College in California were $8,538, while the average cost at a private four-year institution was $23,712. This means that by attending a community college for the first two years, students can save up to $61,000.

Additionally, community colleges often have transfer agreements with four-year institutions, making the transfer process smoother. International students can take the same general education classes required for a bachelor's degree at a lower cost, and then transfer the credits earned towards their degree at a four-year university. This allows students to ease into the US academically, culturally, and financially, and can also improve their chances of getting accepted to their university of choice.

Another advantage of attending a community college is the flexibility of scheduling, which allows students to work part-time or full-time during their studies. This can provide an additional source of income and help offset the cost of tuition and living expenses. Furthermore, many students who attend community college can choose to live at home for the first two years, saving on housing costs, which can amount to over $20,000 at a four-year university.

When considering this option, international students should carefully research the transfer policies of the four-year universities they plan to apply to, as some credits may not transfer, and there may be different requirements for transfer students, such as English proficiency tests. Additionally, while most community colleges do not offer financial aid or scholarships to international students, some four-year universities do provide scholarships for international transfer students, so this is worth investigating.

Overall, by attending a community college first, international students can save a substantial amount of money on their education in the US while still achieving the same outcome of obtaining a bachelor's degree from a four-year university.

Transferring may improve your college experience and career preparedness

Transferring colleges or universities can offer several benefits that may improve your college experience and career preparedness. Firstly, transferring allows you to find a better fit academically and culturally. For instance, you may decide to change your major, and your current school may not offer the program you now want to study. Alternatively, you may find that your current school is too big or too small, lacks diversity, or does not align with your values and interests. Transferring gives you the opportunity to find a school that better suits your academic and personal goals.

Secondly, transferring can provide you with a fresh start and help you grow as a person. You will have already experienced the transition from high school to college, and transferring will push you to step out of your comfort zone once again. You will navigate new surroundings, meet new people, and develop greater independence and resilience. Transferring can also expand your network and expose you to diverse perspectives, which can be beneficial for both your personal and professional life.

Thirdly, transferring can offer financial advantages. Community colleges, for example, often have lower tuition fees and may accept students with lower GPAs and test scores. Attending a community college for the first two years of your degree and then transferring to a four-year institution can help you save money without compromising the quality of your education. Additionally, some universities offer scholarships specifically for international transfer students, providing financial support that may not be available to first-year applicants.

Moreover, transferring can help you avoid unnecessary courses. Universities often require freshmen to take introductory courses that may not be required for transfer students. By transferring, you can focus on the classes that are directly relevant to your major and accelerate your progress toward graduation. However, it is important to note that transferring may result in some credits being lost or not fulfilling specific degree requirements, so careful planning is necessary.

Lastly, transferring can provide you with more flexibility in choosing your major. If you are still deciding on your major, transferring to a community college or a university with more flexible requirements can give you the time and space to explore different subjects before committing to a specific program. This can be especially beneficial for international students who may need more time to adjust to the educational system in their host country.

In conclusion, transferring colleges or universities can offer numerous advantages, including finding a better academic and cultural fit, gaining a fresh start and personal growth, accessing financial benefits, avoiding unnecessary courses, and enjoying more flexibility in choosing your major. These benefits can collectively contribute to an improved college experience and enhance your career preparedness. However, it is important to carefully consider your individual circumstances, research the transfer requirements and policies of your desired schools, and seek advice from academic advisers to ensure a smooth transition.

Some US colleges are a better fit for international students

International students looking to study in the US should be aware that some colleges are a better fit than others. Firstly, it is important to note that acceptance rates for international students vary across US colleges. While the average acceptance rate for international students across 360 ranked universities was 39.1% for fall 2023, some institutions had significantly higher rates, with one university reporting an acceptance rate of nearly 99%.

There are several factors that can make a US college a better fit for international students. One key consideration is the cost of tuition and fees. Community colleges, for example, offer a more affordable option, with tuition and fees that are significantly lower than those at four-year institutions. For instance, Shoreline Community College in Washington state offers international students a cost that is 50% to 70% less than that of public and private universities. Additionally, some community colleges have attractive transfer agreements with four-year institutions, making a bachelor's degree more attainable for international students.

Another factor that can make a US college a better fit for international students is the admissions requirements. Some universities may not require SAT scores or essays for transfer applicants, which can be advantageous for international students who may face additional challenges in meeting standard admissions criteria. Furthermore, transferring can allow international students to bypass certain introductory courses that freshmen are required to take.

Additionally, the academic system differences between countries can impact an international student's experience at a US college. Course evaluations and credit transfers can take time, and GPA calculations may differ. Therefore, it is advisable for international students to start the transfer process early and be mindful of application deadlines, which may vary for transfer students.

Lastly, the availability of scholarships can also make a US college a better fit for international students. While most community colleges do not offer financial aid or scholarships to international students, some four-year institutions, such as Clark University in Massachusetts, the University of Houston in Texas, and Fordham University in New York, provide scholarships specifically for international transfer students.

International students may need to take English proficiency tests

International students applying to universities in English-speaking countries may need to take an English proficiency test. This is to ensure that they can fully engage in their studies and understand the technical concepts that arise in higher education. While the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) does not regulate how well an international student must speak English to study in the United States, many SEVP-certified schools require a certain level of English proficiency for admittance. This is especially important if the student is applying as a freshman rather than a transfer student, as transfer students may have already proven their proficiency during their previous studies.

The specific English proficiency test and required scores vary depending on the program and university. Some common English proficiency tests include the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), the Duolingo English Test, Cambridge Exams, and the Pearson PTE Academic. The TOEFL is an American English proficiency test and is the most common requirement for universities in the USA, but it is also accepted in many other institutions worldwide. The IELTS, on the other hand, is recognised by over 11,000 organisations worldwide and is the most popular English language proficiency test. It offers two types: IELTS Academic, which is usually taken by international students, and IELTS General Training. The Duolingo English Test is also accepted by some schools, and there are even universities that offer their own English Language Transition Programs, such as the University of Toronto.

It is important to note that some universities may waive the English proficiency test requirement if students achieve a certain score on standardised tests like the SAT or ACT. For example, Tulane University waives the English proficiency test requirement for non-native English speakers who score 600 or above on the SAT reading and writing sections or 27 or above on the ACT English section. Additionally, there are "bridge" programs offered by many colleges and universities that can help students improve their English proficiency skills to the level required by universities.

To summarise, international students applying to universities in English-speaking countries may need to take an English proficiency test, and the specific test and scores required vary by university and program. Students should carefully review the requirements of their desired universities and prepare accordingly.

Transfer students may have different admissions requirements

International students can apply as freshmen or transfer students to US universities. However, transfer students may have different admissions requirements.

Transfer students are required to share their story and explain their reasons for transferring. They may be asked to explain how they made their first college choice and what is leading them to make a second choice. Some colleges require transfer students to complete a specific portion of their credits at the new college, which means they may lose credits upon transferring.

Transfer students are also expected to fulfill minimum academic standards to be considered for admission. These standards vary depending on the college. For instance, the University of California requires a GPA of at least 2.4 for resident students and 2.8 for non-residents. Additionally, transfer students must complete specific course requirements, such as two transferable college courses in English composition.

International students transferring to a US university may need to take English proficiency tests, such as the TOEFL, and any required college admissions exams. They should also be aware that some credits may not transfer to their new school, and their GPA may be calculated differently. International students can benefit from starting at a community college, which often has open admissions policies, strong English programs, and attractive transfer agreements.

It is important for all prospective transfer students to research the specific requirements and deadlines of their desired colleges, as these may differ significantly between institutions.

Frequently asked questions