Apply as Freshman or Transfer?

Transfer Students
1

Hi! I’m planning on applying to a different university my second semester of my freshman year since I no longer believe that I can realistically afford the university I plan on attending for all four years. Since I haven’t completed my first semester of my freshman year of college yet, would I apply to my new university as a freshman or a transfer? I’m sorry if my explanation is a little confusing.

2

If you are going to complete the semester you are a transfer at most (but not all) colleges. Check the specific places you are applying to - policies are usually stated on the website. For example, UMd (https://www.admissions.umd.edu/apply/requirements.php) says “High school graduates who completed, or are in the process of completing, at least 12 semester hours or 18 quarter hours at a regionally accredited college or university should apply as transfer applicants”.

3

Have you started that first semester? If you haven’t, then take the year off, and apply to a more affordable list for admission in 2018.

4

If the university that you’re planning to transfer to is a private, you could always consider the community college route.

5

You need to check the rules for each of your target schools, since they can vary. Examples:

Some consider you a transfer if you enroll in any college courses after high school graduation.
Some consider you a transfer if you earn more than __ credits after high school graduation.
Etc.

6

I know some schools don’t let you transfer unless you’re at the junior level already, so depending on where you want to go they might not take you until next year. The Ivies take transfers at the sophomore level, but I know UC schools do not, and it varies by each college. So before you plan to jump ship, make sure the schools you’re looking at a) take sophomore transfers and b) are probably going to accept you. There’s no point in leaving your current school if you can’t get in anywhere else. Unless you want to go to a community college for your sophomore year to save some money and get some credits done. Then you can transfer as a junior. Just some suggestions. Good luck figuring it all out!