Savanna Hoffman
Transferring universities is a common occurrence in the USA, with over 2 million students transferring each year. International students may consider transferring universities for a multitude of reasons, such as cost, the desire to switch majors, or the school not being a good fit. Transferring universities can be a confusing and complicated process, so it is important to be aware of the steps involved. This includes checking the transfer requirements of the new university, gathering the necessary documents, and working closely with an academic advisor to ensure a smooth transition.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of international transfer students in the US | 1 million+ per year |
| Reasons for transferring | Cost, not being prepared for a four-year university, school not being a good fit, wanting to switch major |
| Transfer options | From a university in the home country, from a US two-year community college, from a four-year institution to another four-year institution |
| Requirements | English proficiency tests (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS), college admissions exams, GPA of 2.0 or higher, academic records, letters of recommendation, standardized test scores |
| Additional considerations | Student visa requirements, financial aid eligibility, transfer policies of the specific university |
| Steps to transfer | Contact international student advisor or academic advisor, gather documents, apply to new colleges/universities, request transfer of records, provide required paperwork |
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What You'll Learn
Understanding transfer credits and requirements
Firstly, it is essential to understand what constitutes a transfer student. In most cases, universities in the USA will consider you a transfer student if you have completed a total of 24 college-level credits, which typically equates to two semesters of study. However, some universities have different criteria, and it is not uncommon for institutions to require a minimum of 60 credits, which is often referred to as an upper-level transfer. This usually amounts to two years of college credits. Therefore, it is imperative to check the specific requirements of your chosen university.
Transferring credits from one university to another is an important consideration. Most universities will allow you to transfer your previously earned credits towards your new degree. However, it is important to note that some credits may not be transferable to your new institution, and your Grade Point Average (GPA) may be calculated differently. To ensure a smooth transfer of credits, it is advisable to contact your intended university and inquire about their transfer policy.
When applying as an international transfer student, you must meet the English proficiency requirements set by your chosen university. While some universities require completion of both English Composition I and II classes to waive this requirement, others may have different criteria, such as Oregon State University, which only mandates one English Composition course. Additionally, universities like the University of Colorado Boulder will waive the English proficiency requirement if you complete 30 credits at a US college or university.
It is worth noting that transfer students' admissions requirements, application deadlines, and decision notification dates may differ from those of first-time applicants. Universities may require transfer students to submit essays as part of their application process, especially if applying to higher-ranked institutions. Furthermore, while some universities may accept lower GPAs for transfer students than for first-year applicants, achieving a GPA of 3.0 or above will generally enhance your chances of admission.
Lastly, it is important to understand the two transfer processes outlined by Khan: the academic transfer and the immigration transfer. The academic transfer involves the evaluation of credits that will transfer to your new school and the admission process. Once admitted, the immigration transfer of your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record can be initiated by requesting your current school to transfer the record to the new institution.
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English proficiency tests
English proficiency is one of the most important factors when applying as an international transfer student to a US university. To ensure that international students are set up for success, most universities in the US have English language requirements during the international student application and admissions process. This is because almost every US university and college conducts its courses in English, and students need to be able to understand and communicate effectively in English to successfully complete their academic degree programs.
There are several English proficiency tests that international students can take, and the best test depends on the skills, knowledge, preparedness, and strengths of the individual applying to study at a US college or university. It is important to note that certain US universities and colleges may require you to take specific tests or achieve a target score in certain areas of an American English proficiency test. Therefore, it is recommended to check with the institution you are planning to transfer to regarding specific requirements.
One of the most well-known English-language tests is the TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language), which is accepted by more than 10,000 universities and other institutions in over 150 countries. The TOEFL takes three hours and must be completed at a test center. It has four skill areas: reading, listening, speaking, and writing, with a total maximum score of 120. The TOEFL costs between $150 and $300, and there is no limit to the number of times you can take it, as long as you wait 12 days between attempts.
Another option is the IELTS (International English Language Testing System), which has two versions: the academic version and the general training version. Both assess listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills, with the IELTS requiring a face-to-face interview with an examiner as part of the test.
The Duolingo English test is another option, with sections on speaking, listening, reading, and writing, as well as an additional video interview and writing sample. It is scored on a scale of 0-100 and costs only $49, but not every school accepts it, and some schools only consider it supplementary to another English-language test.
The PTE Academic test (Pearson Test of English) can be completed at any Pearson test center in 50 countries and takes three hours, costing between $150 and $300. Like the Duolingo test, it assesses speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.
Finally, Linguaskill, offered by Cambridge English, is available anytime on any computer with an internet connection, microphone, and headphones. There are two versions, but you are most likely to take the Linguaskill General test, which focuses on the English used in everyday life. It is scored on a scale of 82-180+, aligning with CEFR's international standards.
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Application process and deadlines
As an international student, the application process for transferring universities in the USA can be confusing and complicated. It is important to start the process early, as you will likely need to obtain an evaluation of the classes you have taken, which can take several weeks. This evaluation will determine which credits are transferable, and it may be the case that some credits do not transfer to your new school, impacting your timeline for graduation.
The exact requirements and transfer process vary by school and sometimes by academic program. Some schools allow students to transfer at any time, while others only allow transfers after a certain number of years of study. It is important to research the transfer policies of your current university and the university you plan to transfer to, as well as the minimum entry requirements, application deadlines, and international college credit transfer policies.
Grade point average (GPA) will be the most crucial factor in your admission process, with most universities requiring a GPA of 3.0 or above for admission. However, some universities will accept a lower GPA, and it is common for international transfer students to be accepted with a lower GPA than first-year applicants. Other important factors include English proficiency and essays.
Additionally, certain visa considerations will be necessary for international students. If you have not completed a minimum of six months of the main course of study at your current institution, you will need to obtain a "Letter of Release" from your current institution. You will also need to get a US student visa and ensure that your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record is transferred to your new school.
It is recommended to apply months in advance to ensure you have enough time to meet application requirements and deadlines, which may differ from those for first-year applicants. Universities usually have extended deadlines for transfer student applications, and many will accept transfer students in the spring, summer, or fall. However, some high-ranking universities will only accept transfer students in the fall semester, so it is important to check the specific deadlines and requirements for your chosen university.
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Student visa requirements
International students intending to study in the United States must obtain a student visa. The process involves several steps, including choosing an SEVP-approved school, meeting English proficiency requirements, and undergoing a visa interview. Here is a detailed overview of the student visa requirements for international students:
Step 1: Choosing an SEVP-Approved School
Firstly, international students must apply to a school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). SEVP-approved schools are authorized by the U.S. government to accept foreign students. The student must ensure that their intended program of study qualifies for SEVP certification.
Step 2: Understanding Visa Categories
There are two primary nonimmigrant visa categories for international students in the U.S.: F and M visas. The F-1 visa is for full-time academic students, while the M-1 visa is for full-time vocational students. Additionally, the J-1 visa is for exchange visitors participating in work-and-study-based exchange programs.
Step 3: Meeting English Proficiency Requirements
International students must provide proof of English proficiency. This can be done through English proficiency tests, such as the TOEFL, or by enrolling in courses leading to English proficiency at their chosen institution.
Step 4: Financial Requirements
To obtain a student visa, applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves financially throughout their entire course of study in the U.S. This requirement ensures that students can cover the costs of tuition, living expenses, and other related expenses during their stay.
Step 5: Visa Application and Interview
After receiving acceptance from an SEVP-approved school, students will receive Form I-20 and register in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). They must then schedule a visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate, typically in the country where they live. During the interview, applicants must present their Form I-20, passport (valid for at least six months beyond their planned stay), and other required documents.
Step 6: Visa Fees and Processing Times
Students applying for a student visa may be required to pay a non-refundable visa application fee before their interview. If the visa is approved, certain nationalities may also need to pay a visa issuance fee. Wait times for interview appointments and visa processing can vary by location, season, and visa category, so it is advisable to apply early.
It is important to note that student visa requirements may be subject to change, and international students should refer to the official websites of U.S. government agencies, such as the Department of State and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), for the most up-to-date information.
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Financial aid and scholarships
International students are typically not eligible for federal financial aid in the US and often have to pay out of pocket. However, US colleges and universities offer international students a large choice of programs and work opportunities. Many colleges offer substantial financial aid packages to attract more international students. For instance, the average amount given to international students was roughly $23,800 for the 2023-2024 academic year at 868 undergraduate schools that reported this data.
There are various scholarships, grants, fellowships, and loans available for international students. Some colleges and universities give financial aid to international first-year applicants, but not transfer applicants. However, some schools, like Boise State University and Fordham University in New York, offer scholarships specifically to international transfer students.
Most of the institutional aid available to international students is reserved for graduate studies in the form of assistantships and fellowships. Undergraduate international students may find it challenging to secure financial aid, as most scholarships are reserved for US citizens and permanent residents. Nonetheless, some universities offer need-based scholarships for students who can demonstrate financial need at a predetermined level. Academic departments within universities may also have funds to support international students with exceptional needs and talents.
Merit-based scholarships are another option for international students transferring to US universities. These scholarships are granted based on special skills, talents, or abilities. Universities may consider factors such as TOEFL scores, academic records, artistic ability, musical ability, or athletic ability when awarding merit-based scholarships.
It is recommended to consult the financial aid webpage of each university to confirm eligibility and explore the specific opportunities available for international transfer students. Additionally, students should be cautious of dishonest scholarship offers and always verify the authenticity of any scholarship source. Free scholarship databases are available to help international students identify legitimate opportunities without incurring unnecessary fees.
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Frequently asked questions
Community colleges are often more affordable than four-year institutions, they may accept students with lower GPAs and test scores, and they can help students transition to life in the U.S. Most credits from community college are transferable to a four-year institution, and some universities have partnerships with local community colleges to make transferring easier.
Each university has its own policies, but in general, you will need to submit academic credentials or transcripts, English proficiency test results (such as TOEFL or IELTS), letters of recommendation, and standardised test scores. You may also need to take additional tests or certifications before being admitted. It is important to work closely with an international student advisor or academic advisor to understand the specific requirements and documentation needed.
It is more common than you might think. According to the National Clearing House Research Center, approximately 2.2 million university and college students transferred between universities in one year, and over one million students, including international students, transfer to a US university each year.
First, check the transfer policy of the university you wish to apply to, as well as any specific requirements. Then, start gathering your documents, as these can take time to translate and evaluate. Work with an international student advisor or academic advisor to guide you through the process and ensure you meet any visa requirements. Finally, submit your application and provide any required paperwork, such as acceptance letters or contact information for your new school.
