Cornell's Transfer Option

I just received the TO offer from Cornell for the class of 2021. I’m kind of bummed that I didn’t get in with regular decision but I’m still grateful that I got this guaranteed transfer option.

Basically, does this mean that I am GUARANTEED a spot in sophomore year? All I have to do is keep the requered GPA during my first year in college? I got the GT for the biological Sciences major for CALS. I was wondering if which school i go to for the first year matters because isn’t it fairly easier to keep a 3.5 GPA at let’s say a community college than a four year private college? Will COrnell take into consideration which school I go to for the first year or do they just look at my grades? So, I’m deciding between going to Stony Brook of Fordham University for my first year. Does anyone have any suggestions?

From what I understand the TO offer is guaranteed IF you take the required courses & get no lower than a B in them, plus keep your overall GPA at a 3.0. (Edit: different majors may have different minimums). They will be sending you more info in the next week or so. I’ve heard that CALS really holds your hand thru this & advises you on the proper courses to take, etc.

My son is trying to decide the same thing @smcub2021. He got the GT for ESS major in CALS. Luckily, he only needs a 3.0, not a 3.5! He is trying to decide to go to CC or U Miami (which was his 2nd choice, with large scholarship) for the first year. Ultimately, I think he is leaning towards UM because that way, if for some reason he decides Cornell isn’t for him (or wants to change majors or God Forbid, doesn’t get the 3.0), he will still be at a college he loves. While I do think CC is “easier” what may not be easier is getting the courses that Cornell will require you to take. For example, I did some research on our local CC & my son couldn’t even take Bio w/lab or Chem 1/Chem 2 as a first year, because they require some other intro class prior to taking Chem or Bio… This would automatically ruin his chance at Cornell… So make sure you look into if you can even get the courses you need.

My son also was admitted to Fordham, but loved the U more (and it’s cheaper for us)… Cornell & harsh winters will be tough after a year in Miami!

Best of luck to you!