Hello! I know that I’m thinking about this early; but I am planning on applying to American University for the fall of 2020 as a transfer student. I will be a freshman this upcoming year. The reason I am already looking to transfer is simply because I looked into the school that I am attending this fall and their poli sci program doesn’t offer what I’m looking for. I already have accumulated over 20 college credit hours throughout high school and have approximately a 3.8 college GPA. I’m a good student and I’m planning on having a 4.0 at my current institution for this upcoming year as well as 3+ extracurricular activities. What is the likelihood I could be accepted as a transfer at AU with the above info (my HS GPA is a 3.9)? Additionally, how many of you transferred as college freshman to AU for your sophomore year?
Thanks, all!!
Considering how you’re doing in school currently, you should definitely apply. If you have a specific program at AU that interests you, then by all means you have to apply to find out whether you can gain admission at AU. I’d however advise you that grades and activities do matter yet the entire application process is holistic, therefore just by seeing the two aforementioned information are or aren’t enough to determine whether you’re a qualified candidate for the school. Simply put, the school will look at just about everything and it’s also how you tell the story about yourself that meets more than the eye. Sure, grades and extracurricular activities can highlight your grit and commitment, but what about our passion? Have you considered a letter of recs from both academia and professional? What about personal reference that can really edge you over than other applicants? And does your essay best describe who you are as a person and what you hope to achieve at AU? And frankly transferring after first or the second year of college does not matter - when you’re ready, you’re ready! My suggestion would be to, If anything, consider transferring after sophmore year as AU is a private institution where you can carry over 60 units or so with you and then save some of yours or your family’s money in the process. Improve your GPA even more, join student government and volunteer where your passion lies, and ultimately visit AU, if you haven’t already.
I firmly believe that college admission is all about making the two-way connection between you as the applicant and the school choosing to invite you in. It really is an opportunity that’s being given to you. So, just be yourself - everything’ll work out if you believe that you’re the right candidate for the Fall 2020 admission.