Transferring from a Backup School

Posted by Naomi Rockler-Gladen May 26, 2008

Let's face it-- not everyone gets into their first choice colleges. But if you have your heart set on your first choice school, should you try to get in the following year by transferring in from a backup school?

This depends on your situation. If you're going to try this, you need to make sure the first choice school really is the best choice for you-- and that the backup school can't offer you exactly what you want or need. Keep in mind that transferring is a big hassle. You usually lose credits, and you have to go through that horrible freshman year adjustment period all over again. If you're going to go through that, make sure the transfer is absolutely worth it.

Second, do your research and find out how difficult it is to transfer to your first choice school. If you can, visit the school and talk to admissions officer. At some schools-- especially elite ones-- it's more difficult to get in as a transfer than it is a graduating senior, even if you do really well your freshman year at your backup school.

If you're attending a school with the intention to transfer, do everything you can to make the most of your life at your new school. This is important partly because a transfer is no guarantee. It's also important because if you give your new school a chance, you may find that it's a perfect wonderful match for you-- and then you can avoid the hassle of transferring. And even if you do transfer successfully, it's a good idea to make the most out of your time at the backup school, as you'll be spending a year or two in this environment and want to have the most valuable experience that you can.

Good luck with your college applications!