I know several people that transferred to another college. What is wrong with our school?
Sounds like you are satisfied with college life here and your friends may have felt the same. They are probably not running away, but transferring to another college that better meets their needs. We will give you an overview of transfer statistics and reasons which will surprise you.
Transferring to another college is actually quite common these days, according to a report by the National Association for College Admission Counseling, around a third of all students transfer. There are a number of considerations for those thinking about a transfer, firstly the acceptance rate of 64% is a little lower than that of first year students which is 69%. The grades at the previous college weigh heavily on the success of transfer acceptance.
Transfer students can also apply for merit aid with 77% of colleges providing merit scholarships. The net price difference may be a large factor in the decision to transfer and there are a number of ways to save money by transferring to another college. However, not all universities have room for transfer students. Smaller institutions with fewer undergraduates leaving will have fewer spots open for incoming transfers, larger state colleges will be easier.
The Common Data Set is a detailed document about the college that includes a range of things such as freshman academic profile and campus safety, but it also includes transfer admission policies that should be consulted. SAT and ACT test scores are not as important according to the NACAC study, the longer you have been in college the less other colleges care about these scores. If the transfer is after just one semester however, most schools will want to look at the test scores.
Students transfer for a variety of reasons and most colleges will ask why first and foremost. Motives for moving could include financial circumstances since cost is a major factor in college selection. There is a growing trend to attend community colleges before transferring to a four-year university program.
Social circumstances have also been cited as a top reason to transfer. Being out of your comfort zone for the first time can be amplified by issues such as incompatibility with roommates, rules governing dating, lack of personal space, policies on cars and driving, or the excessive party scene and related social obligations. Missing family or moving to be closer to them causes many to transfer. A large fraction of four-year college students transfers or drops out altogether within the first two years.
Switching majors is another reason to transfer. Your current college may not offer the degree you want, so seeking an alternative maybe the only option. Military commitments can also result in a college transfer. Part of the benefit of the GI Bill is the ability to study and take course work across a network of colleges. The new post 9/11 GI Bill pays for college tuition and even a one-time home relocation allowance.
The increasing difficulty of the subject material in later years can be enough to cause students to transfer or switch majors.
College has given me the confidence I need to fail… Jarod Kintz.
John Regan is a former Director of Sales for equity research.