<p>How much time do schools give applicants to decide whether or not they will attend once they are admitted? Would I have time to visit different campuses, or should I plan on visiting campuses before I even apply anywhere?</p>
<p>Sorry to ask what is probably an obvious question. I am transferring from a community college, and have never actually "applied" to a college. So I am very lost with this whole process.</p>
<p>Your question is actually a good one. There is no standard amount of response time for transfer students, but, unfortunately, the time allotted can be very brief … e.g., two weeks or less, although it will vary greatly from college to college. In general, transfers are typically not allowed as much time as the freshmen applicants are given to decide.</p>
<p>Ideally, you should visit campuses even before you apply to see if they’re a good fit for you. If that won’t work, then it’s best to visit before you have your verdict so you are prepared to make a quick decision. On the other hand, if money is tight, it may make sense to wait until you have a decision from colleges that are either “Reach” schools for you or far away (or both).</p>
<p>It’s wise to ask admission officials at all your target schools for at least a ballpark sense of how much turnaround time you’ll get, if admitted. Their answers can help you plan your visits. For those schools that provide ample time, you can hold off until you’ve gotten a decision before making the trip, if necessary.</p>
<p>If you have not been able to get to campus and need just a bit more time to do so, you can ask for an extension, which you may–or may not–get. If yes, be sure to get it IN WRITING (e-mail counts, too … just don’t rely on a verbal extension).</p>
<p>Thank you for the reply! You’ve brought up things that I wasn’t even thinking about! How thorough!</p>
<p>I will plan on finding out the specifics for each college BEFORE I start planning this fall’s campus visits then!</p>
<p>You’re welcome. I wish you well as you embark upon the transfer process. Keep in mind that you shouldn’t be shy about contacting your target colleges with ANY questions you may have, whether they’re about response time or other issues. Most four-year schools have at least one staff member in the admission office who is officially designated as the admission officer in charge of transfers. If your queries are fairly general, they may be answered by any random officer on duty, but transfer-specific questions will probably be directed to this transfer liaison. You might even find that you develop a “relationship” with the transfer officer at one or more of your target colleges, which can be helpful as you journey through the admissions maze. Good luck!</p>
<p>S gave a month. Everyone else two weeks. Emory - 1 1/2.</p>