How to Transfer from a Community College to a University

Starting at a community college is a smart move. It’s affordable, flexible, and gives you a solid foundation before transferring to a four-year college. But while the benefits are clear, the transfer process can sometimes feel like a maze. 

Only 16% of community college students transfer to a four-year school and complete a bachelor's degree within six years. Degree completion rates are even lower among certain groups: 9% for Black students, 13% for Hispanic students, and 11% for low-income students. Students who drop out primarily leave due to lost credits, financial aid issues, or lack of guidance.

Don’t let the same thing happen to you! Here’s a list of steps for transferring from a community college—or even switching between schools—so you can reach your goals with confidence.

Know which colleges are transfer-friendly

Not all schools treat transfer students the same. Some colleges, especially Ivy League schools, have low transfer acceptance rates. But others, like the University of Texas at Austin (38%) and the University of Virginia (35-40%), welcome many transfer students each year.

To simplify your search, use platforms like Appily to compare colleges, check transfer acceptance rates, and build your list. You’ll even get personalized recommendations based on what you’re looking for in a school.

Plan ahead to avoid losing credits

Can you transfer colleges without losing credits? Yes! But you must plan ahead. 

On average, students lose up to 43% of their credits when transferring between schools. Public-to-public transfers tend to retain more credits than private-to-private ones, but planning ahead is crucial no matter where you’re headed.

Meet with your advisor early and map out your courses to ensure they align with your target school’s requirements. Check the credit transfer policies of potential colleges, and reach out to transfer advisors for clarification if needed.

Be strategic with your course selection

While exploring a wide variety of classes might be tempting, it’s better to stick to courses that directly support your major. Taking unnecessary general education classes could leave you with excess credits that won’t transfer. Pick a major early, especially if you’re pursuing fields like science, engineering, or nursing, which often require specific prerequisites.

Not sure what to major in? Visit your career center for guidance, career tests, or internship opportunities.

Understand how existing financial aid works 

Transferring can impact your financial aid eligibility. If you lose credits or have to repeat courses, you may not receive aid for them. Talk to financial aid advisors at your current and prospective schools to avoid surprises.

Don’t forget to update your FAFSA when transferring, and check for transfer-specific scholarships. For example, the Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship and scholarships at schools like the University of Michigan-Dearborn or UC Davis are explicitly designed for transfer students. Use Appily to explore even more scholarship opportunities and save your favorites.

Apply for special transfer scholarships

Transfer students have access to unique scholarships and fee waivers. If you’re eligible for the Pell Grant, you can use the NACAC transfer admission application fee waiver form to save on application fees. Additionally, many colleges offer scholarships specifically for transfer students—check with your advisor or use Appily to discover opportunities tailored to your situation.

Prep for placement tests

Many community colleges require placement tests for math and English. Unfortunately, these tests can sometimes place you in unnecessary remedial courses that don’t offer credit. To avoid this, study in advance using free resources like Khan Academy or materials recommended by your college.

If you’re placed in a remedial course, consider appealing—especially if your high school GPA suggests you can handle a higher level. That said, if you know you need extra help, don’t hesitate to take the class and build a strong foundation.

Build a support network

Advisors, professors, and transfer counselors are there to help you succeed, so don’t be shy about reaching out. They can guide you through course selection, credit transfers, and even scholarship applications. Networking with these experts will make your transfer process much smoother.

Take a student success course

Many community colleges offer study skills and time management courses, and students who take them are more likely to transfer and graduate successfully. These classes can give you the tools to stay organized, manage your time, and tackle challenges head-on.

I took one of these classes at my community college. It was so helpful that when I transferred to a university, I maintained my 4.0 throughout my full degree and graduated with honors. I know I wouldn't have had nearly the success if I hadn't taken that class. 

Research costs at potential universities

Before transferring, you should understand the full cost of attending your new school. Many universities offer net price calculators and financial aid packages for transfer students. Schedule a meeting with the financial aid office at your target school to discuss your options and ensure you’re taking advantage of all available resources.

Advocate for yourself

The transfer process can be challenging, but students who stick with it do just as well as those who start at four-year schools. Stay focused on your goals, ask for help when needed, and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself.

Ready to start your transfer journey?

Transferring can be daunting, but the proper preparation makes all the difference. Use resources like Appily to research schools, manage your list, and discover scholarships to fund your education. With a clear plan and the right support, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your goals.

Log into your Appily account today to get started—and don’t forget to apply for our $1,000 scholarship for transfer students!