Transferring colleges is a big decision that can have a significant impact on your academic, personal, and professional life. It’s not always an easy choice, and asking yourself the right questions can help you determine whether transferring is the best option for you.
Fortunately, Athens State University is here to help. As an upper-division university, we specialize in supporting students with the support and guidance to make their transfer process as seamless as possible.
So, if you’re already thinking about transferring colleges, here are some questions to consider during your decision-making process.
1. Why do I want to transfer?
Understanding your reasons for transferring colleges is your first step. Are you seeking academic programs more aligned with your career goals, smaller class sizes, or a more flexible schedule? Maybe you want to be closer to home or reduce tuition costs.
Clarifying your motivations can help you identify whether transferring will meet your goals and help you explore options that will improve your college experience.
2. Will my credits transfer?
Research how your existing credits will apply to your new institution. This step is crucial to avoid losing progress toward your degree. Look for schools with transparent credit transfer policies and tools to help you evaluate how your current credits will transfer.
At Athens State, our transfer-friendly policies make it easy to bring your hard-earned credits with you. Our online Credit Transfer Guide is a helpful resource to see how your existing credits could apply to your chosen program and keep you on the fast-track to your degree.
As a bonus, our academic advisors are here to personally guide you through the credit transfer process, ensuring all your questions are answered and you’re set up for success.
3. Does your new college offer the right support services?
Transferring to a new college means adjusting to a new environment, and having the right support can make a big difference. Consider whether your next school offers academic advising, tutoring, career services, and other resources to help you thrive.
For example, Athens State pairs transfer students with a personal success coach from our Student Success Center who can help you navigate the application process and the best options for your academic and career goals.
Once you’re enrolled as a student, you’ll also gain access to resources like our Career Development Center to provide further support and guidance toward your degree and beyond.
4. Can I afford to transfer?
Transferring colleges often comes with additional costs, such as application fees, transcript evaluations, and potential differences in tuition. Take the time to assess whether transferring is financially feasible and explore scholarship opportunities and financial aid options that may be available to you.
Competitive tuition rates and scholarships like the ones offered at Athens State make pursuing your degree both accessible and cost-effective. We also offer guidance to help you transfer your existing financial aid and find a budget-friendly path toward your degree.
5. Will transferring help me achieve my long-term goals?
Ultimately, the decision to transfer should align with your academic, personal, and career goals. Reflect on how a new college can help you achieve those objectives.
Does the school offer the programs, networking opportunities, and resources you need to reach your full potential? What kind of support will you receive when you get there?
These are important factors to look at as you finalize your decision.
The Final Decision: Make your move.
Transferring colleges is a big step, but with careful planning and the right support, it can be a life changing experience. If you’re thinking about transferring, Athens State University’s comprehensive transfer policies, guidance for maximizing credits, and transfer-friendly resources are here to make the process simple, easy, and possibly the best decision you’ve ever made.
Learn more about our transfer process and start your journey towards success today.