Transferring Universities: A Guide For International Students In The Us

International students may consider transferring US universities for several reasons, including the cost, the need to improve their GPA, or the desire to explore different subjects before committing to a four-year program. The process of transferring universities in the USA can be complex, and each university has its own policies and requirements. However, there are some standard steps and considerations that international students can follow to increase their chances of a successful transfer. Firstly, students should contact the universities they plan to apply to and inquire about their specific transfer policies and requirements, as these can vary greatly between institutions. Students should also be mindful of their student visa status and ensure that their transfer plans align with their visa requirements. Working with an academic advisor or international student advisor can be beneficial, as they can provide guidance on the required documentation, costs, and visa considerations.

How to transfer university in the USA for international students

Transfer from a community college

Transferring from a community college is a common route for international students to take when aiming to enrol in a four-year university in the US. This route can be more financially manageable, as community colleges are often more affordable than four-year institutions, and students can earn an associate degree and a bachelor's degree in four years for less cost by attending a community college for the first half of their studies. It is also a good option for students who are still deciding on their major, as they can explore different subjects at a lower cost.

Community colleges also offer smaller class sizes and more support for new immigrants transitioning to life and work in the US. Students can take the same general education classes required for a bachelor's degree at a lower cost, and many four-year institutions have partnerships with local community colleges to make transferring easier. For example, Shoreline Community College in Washington has an agreement with Georgia Tech, which does not require SAT scores or essays from transfer applicants.

However, it is important to note that most community colleges in the US do not offer financial aid or scholarships to international students, and the availability of credits to transfer can vary. Students should also be aware that the transfer process can be different depending on the university they are transferring to, so it is important to work closely with an academic advisor and contact the individual universities to understand their specific requirements and transfer policies.

To prepare for transferring from a community college to a four-year university in the US, international students should take English proficiency tests, such as the TOEFL, and any required college admissions exams. They should also ensure they have all the required documentation, such as academic records, letters of recommendation, and standardised test scores, and be prepared to take any additional tests or certifications required by the specific programme they are applying to.

Check transfer requirements and eligibility

As each university and college has its own policies regarding university transfer, it is important to work closely with an international student advisor or academic advisor. This type of advisor, also known as a Designated School Official (DSO), can help you understand the type of information and documentation you need. They can also advise on costs and address any changes to your student visa.

To be eligible to transfer to a US university or college, your completed courses need to be evaluated to determine which credits are transferable. This process can take time, so it is best to start as early as possible to make sure you meet admission deadlines. Some credits may not be transferable, which means you may be required to complete additional classes in the US, which can also impact your timeline for graduation. Most universities accept transfer students with up to two years of study at another university, but some will not accept students with more than two years enrolled at another college.

If you are an F-1 student, you can transfer between Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified schools. The transfer process is a way to electronically move Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) records and retain the same SEVIS identification (ID) number for the student. The SEVIS transfer process involves the DSO at the transfer-out school releasing the record to the transfer-in school, which can then be used to create a Form I-20, a certificate of eligibility for nonimmigrant student status.

Before considering any transfer options, experts suggest international students take English proficiency tests, such as the TOEFL, and any required college admissions exams.

Prepare documents and visas

As an international student, transferring universities in the USA can be a complex process, and it's essential to be well-informed about the necessary documents and visa requirements. Here is a detailed guide to help you prepare:

Understanding the Process:

Before initiating the transfer process, it's important to recognize that each university has its own unique transfer policies and requirements. Therefore, your first step should be to contact the universities you are considering for your transfer to understand their specific policies. Working closely with an academic advisor or a Designated School Official (DSO) can be immensely beneficial. They can guide you through the process, help you identify the required documents, and address any visa-related concerns.

Required Documents:

The documents you will need to transfer to another US university may vary depending on the university and the program you are applying to. However, here is a general list of documents typically required:

• Academic records: This includes transcripts, grade reports, and proof of your current enrolment.
• Standardized test scores: Scores from tests like the TOEFL or SAT may be required, depending on the university's requirements.
• Letters of recommendation: These letters should ideally be from your current or previous academic institutions.
• Proof of financial support: You may need to provide evidence of your ability to cover tuition and living expenses.
• Identification documents: A valid passport is essential, and you may also need to provide additional identification documents.

Visa Requirements:

Maintaining your status as an international student in the US is crucial, and transferring universities may impact your student visa. Here's what you need to know:

• Check with your current DSO: Consult your current DSO to understand the transfer process and ensure a smooth transition of your student records to the new university.
• Understand visa eligibility: Different university programs may have specific visa requirements. For example, certain programs may only be eligible for J-1 or M-1 visas, while others may be suitable for an F-1 student visa. Ensure that the universities and programs you are considering align with your visa status.
• Apply for a visa transfer: If you are changing visa types or need to update your visa due to the transfer, work closely with your DSO and the relevant US government agencies, such as the Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security, to navigate the process.
• Maintain your status: Remember that you must continue to meet the requirements of your student visa while studying in the US. This includes maintaining satisfactory academic progress and complying with any visa regulations.

Remember, the process of transferring universities as an international student in the USA can be intricate, and it's always advisable to seek personalized advice from academic advisors or DSOs who are familiar with your specific circumstances. They can provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding documents and visas.

Contact an international student advisor

As an international student, contacting an international student advisor is an important step in the process of transferring universities in the USA. These advisors, also known as Designated School Officials (DSOs), are well-versed in the specific requirements and policies related to university transfers. Here are some key reasons why you should contact an international student advisor:

• Understanding Documentation Requirements: International student advisors can guide you through the types of documents you need to collect for your transfer application. This includes academic records, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and standardised test scores. They can also advise you on any specific requirements of the universities you are considering, such as English proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
• Visa-Related Support: Advisors can provide crucial support in maintaining your status as an international student by helping you navigate visa requirements. They can assist with applying for the appropriate visa, ensuring it aligns with the programme and university you are transferring to. This includes understanding the differences between various visas, such as F-1, J-1, and M-1, and their specific restrictions.
• Cost Estimates and Financial Planning: International student advisors can help you estimate the anticipated costs associated with transferring to a different university. They can guide you in understanding the financial liabilities and provide insights into potential scholarships or financial aid opportunities specifically for international transfer students.
• Streamlining the Transfer Process: Advisors are familiar with the steps involved in transferring between universities. They can help you navigate the application process, including identifying transfer-friendly universities, submitting applications, and meeting important deadlines. They can also assist in determining which of your previously earned credits can be transferred and applied to your new programme.
• Community College Options: For international students who are not yet ready for a four-year university or seeking a more affordable option, advisors can suggest starting at a U.S. community college. They can guide you in selecting a community college that offers strong English programmes and attractive transfer agreements with four-year institutions. This path can provide a smoother transition to a U.S. university, both academically and financially.

Remember that each university has its own unique transfer policies and requirements, so it is essential to work closely with an international student advisor who can provide personalised guidance throughout the transfer process.

Consider financial implications

As an international student in the USA, transferring universities can have significant financial implications that you should carefully consider. Firstly, it is important to understand that each university has its own unique financial aid policies for transfer students. While some universities offer financial aid and scholarships specifically for international transfer students, others may only provide financial assistance to first-year applicants. Therefore, it is crucial to research and compare the financial aid offerings of your prospective universities. Additionally, transferring universities may result in changes to your daily expenses, as the cost of housing, dining, and other living costs can vary significantly between different locations.

Furthermore, you should be mindful of any ongoing financial obligations to your current university. Depending on the timing of your transfer, you may need to settle outstanding payments or pay partial fees to your current institution. It is advisable to clarify these financial obligations with an advisor and ensure all payments are made well in advance of your transfer to avoid any complications. Additionally, if you are an international student with an F-1 visa, you should be aware that transferring universities may require updating your visa status and transferring your SEVIS record to the new institution. This process typically involves coordinating with Designated School Officials (DSOs) at both your current and new universities.

Another important financial consideration is the potential loss or reduction of transferable credits when switching institutions. Graduate programs, in particular, tend to have more specialized coursework, which may result in fewer credits transferring over. This could extend the time and cost required to complete your degree. Therefore, it is advisable to research the transfer credit policies of your prospective universities and understand the potential financial implications of any delays in your graduation timeline. Additionally, some universities may have specific requirements for transfer students, such as English proficiency tests or additional admissions exams, which may incur further costs.

Lastly, transferring to a university in a different state may result in paying out-of-state tuition fees, which are typically higher than in-state tuition. It is important to factor in these potential cost differences when considering a university transfer. Overall, transferring universities as an international student in the USA can have significant financial implications. It is essential to carefully research and plan your transfer to ensure a smooth transition and avoid unexpected financial burdens.

Frequently asked questions