Lori Meadows
International transfer students are those who move from a school in their home country to another institution in a different country. International transfer students must submit official transcripts, test scores, and other supplemental items to their desired institution. They may also be required to demonstrate English proficiency, depending on their circumstances. International transfer students can take advantage of community colleges as an alternative path to obtaining an education from a university in their desired country.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | An international transfer student is a student who is not a citizen or permanent resident of the country in which they are studying and has graduated from high school, enrolling in another college or university for at least 12 semester hours following high school graduation. |
| Application process | International transfer students typically need to apply months in advance and may have different deadlines compared to first-year applicants. They often need to submit official transcripts, test scores, and proof of English language proficiency. |
| English language proficiency | International transfer students are usually required to demonstrate proficiency in English through tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test. Exemptions may be given to students from specific countries or those who have studied in English-medium institutions. |
| Credit requirements | Some universities require a minimum number of transferable credit hours from an accredited university for international transfer admissions, such as 15 credit hours at the University of Houston. |
| SEVIS transfer | When transferring between SEVP-certified schools in the US, the student's SEVIS record is electronically transferred, and they retain the same SEVIS identification number. The transfer release date is important, as it determines when responsibility for the student's record shifts to the new school. |
| Scholarships | Some universities offer scholarships specifically for international transfer students, such as Clark University in Massachusetts, the University of Houston in Texas, and Fordham University in New York. |
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What You'll Learn
International transfer student definition
An international transfer student is a student who is not a citizen of the country in which they are studying and has transferred from another college or university. International transfer students are required to submit all official college transcripts and other documents, including exam scores, which must be sent as official documents. This means they must be sent directly from the testing agency or institution.
International transfer students are also required to demonstrate proficiency in the language of the country they are moving to. For example, international students applying to US colleges are required to take English proficiency tests, such as the TOEFL, and any required college admissions exams. Similarly, international students applying to colleges in the UK must demonstrate proficiency in English.
International transfer students may also need to submit a visa or passport. For example, international students transferring to a US college need to submit their F-1 visa and passport details.
International transfer students can also benefit from scholarships. For example, some schools in the US, such as Clark University in Massachusetts, the University of Houston in Texas, and Fordham University in New York, offer scholarships for international transfer students.
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Application process
International transfer students are those who have graduated from high school and are currently enrolled in a college or university, seeking to transfer to another college or university, often in a different country. International transfer students are not citizens or permanent residents of the country to which they are seeking transfer.
The application process for international transfer students can be quite intricate, and it is recommended that students begin the process early. Here are the key steps involved:
- English Proficiency Tests: Before considering a transfer, it is advisable to take English proficiency tests like the TOEFL and any required college admissions exams. English language requirements can vary, and applicants must demonstrate proficiency. Some institutions may require specific tests, such as the SAT or ACT, while others may offer alternative ways to demonstrate proficiency.
- Contact the University: It is essential to contact the university to which you plan to apply to understand their specific transfer policy. Universities may have varying requirements and deadlines for international transfer students.
- Obtain Official Transcripts: Collect all official college transcripts and submit them to the admissions office of the university you are applying to. If you are currently enrolled in a college, you must submit your final transcripts before a specific deadline. The credit transfer process will usually begin after the official transcripts are received.
- Course Evaluations: If you are transferring from a university in your home country, you may need to obtain evaluations of the classes you have taken. This process can take several weeks, so starting early is crucial. Understand that some credits may not transfer to your new school, and your Grade Point Average (GPA) calculation may differ.
- Application Portal: Create an account on the university's application portal and complete the application form. You will likely need to pay an application fee, and a confirmation email will be sent to you with further instructions.
- Supplemental Documents: Upload all required supplemental documents through the application portal. These may include official transcripts, exam scores, and proof of English language proficiency. Ensure that these documents are sent through approved channels, as emailed copies may not be considered official.
- Application Review: The admissions office will review your application and supporting documents on a rolling basis. They will determine your eligibility based on available spaces and notify you of any additional requirements.
- I-20 Paperwork: After you are admitted, obtain the necessary I-20 paperwork. This is essential for maintaining legal immigration status during the transfer process. Work with your designated school official to choose the appropriate SEVIS release date.
- International Transfer Student Standing Form: Complete and upload the International Transfer Student Standing Form to your application portal before registering for classes at the new university.
- Visa Requirements: If transferring to a university in another country, ensure you understand the visa requirements. Submit a photocopy of your visa page along with your passport page showing your photo, name, and birth date.
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English proficiency tests
International transfer students are those who have graduated from high school and are currently enrolled in a college or university, having completed at least 12 semester hours post-high school graduation. These students are required to prove their English language proficiency, especially if they are applying to colleges and universities in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.
There are several English proficiency tests available for international transfer students. Here are some of the most common and notable ones:
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
The TOEFL is a widely recognised English proficiency test designed to assess the English language skills of non-native speakers. It is commonly required for international students who wish to enrol in English-speaking colleges and universities. The test consists of sections on listening, reading, writing, and speaking, with each section worth 30 points, for a total of 120 points. There is generally no passing mark, as the required score depends on the university's standards.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
The IELTS is another highly recognised English proficiency test offered by the British Council. It is accepted by over 10,000 organisations worldwide, including universities and educational institutions. The IELTS comes in two types: Academic and General Training. The Academic test is typically used for university admissions, while the General Training test is used for migration or work purposes. Both versions feature speaking and listening tests, but the reading and writing tests differ according to their specific purposes.
Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)
The Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE) exam is a well-respected English proficiency test. It employs the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) to evaluate a candidate's language ability. This framework uses a six-point scale (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2) to assess language proficiency, ranging from basic to proficient users.
Institution-Specific Requirements
In addition to the standardised tests mentioned above, some universities and institutions may have their own specific English proficiency requirements or accept alternative forms of proof. For example, the University of Minnesota Twin Cities has its own Minnesota English Language Program (MELP), and FIU requires transfer students with less than 60 credits to meet the Florida Board of Governors language requirements, such as ENC 1101 or an SAT/ACT test.
It is important for international transfer students to carefully review the English proficiency requirements of their desired institutions and plan their applications accordingly.
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Student visa requirements
International transfer students are those who have graduated from high school and are currently enrolled in a college or university for at least 12 semester hours following high school graduation. This classification also includes postgraduate applicants from other institutions seeking additional undergraduate coursework.
International students must obtain a student visa to study in the US. The most common student visas are F-1 and M-1. F-1 visas are for full-time international students pursuing academic studies, while M-1 visas are for full-time international students pursuing vocational studies.
To obtain an F-1 or M-1 visa, students must:
- Attend a school and enrol in courses that are certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
- Obtain a Form I-20, which is issued by the designated school official (DSO) at the school the student plans to attend. The form lists the student's program start date and must be presented upon entering the country.
- Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee before the visa interview, for which information from the Form I-20 is required.
- Ensure that their student visa matches the type of Form I-20 they have.
- Submit all official college transcripts that the admission offer is based on before receiving the Form I-20.
- Submit a photocopy of their valid passport page showing their photo, name, and birth date.
- Submit a photocopy of their visa page if transferring from a US institution.
Additionally, international students may need to demonstrate English language proficiency through tests such as TOEFL or SAT/ACT, depending on the number of credits they are transferring.
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Scholarships and financial aid
International transfer students may be eligible for scholarships and financial aid, although such opportunities are limited for undergraduate students. Most US institutions offer little to no discount on tuition fees for international students. However, both private and public institutions may waive application fees in some situations, and there may be opportunities for international students to work on campus.
Some universities, such as Whitworth University, offer scholarships to transfer students who are enrolled full time and working towards their first bachelor's degree. The scholarship amount is determined based on the student's official college transcript(s) or high school cumulative GPA if they have completed less than one full term of college work.
Other universities, such as Clark University in Massachusetts, the University of Houston in Texas, and Fordham University in New York, offer scholarships specifically for international transfer students. Additionally, some public and private universities offer financial incentives for students to attend their institution.
Students may also be able to work on campus to help fund their studies. For example, students at TCU are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week on campus during the school year, with full-time employment allowed during the summer and when classes are not in session. However, as there is no guarantee of employment, students should not rely solely on this income to cover their expenses.
International students can also consider starting at a community college and then transferring to a four-year institution to save costs. This option can provide a more affordable route to obtaining a degree from a US university.
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Frequently asked questions
An international transfer student is a student who is not a citizen of the country they are applying to study in and is transferring from a school in their home country or within their current country of study.
International transfer students are required to submit all official college transcripts, course descriptions, and proof of English language proficiency. They must also submit a photocopy of their passport and visa (if transferring from a US institution).
International transfer students should contact the university they plan to apply to for their transfer policy. They should also be aware of the deadlines, as these may differ from first-year applicants. After being admitted, students must obtain their I-20 paperwork and complete the International Transfer Student Standing Form.
