University Transfer Guide

Transferring to a State University: An Overview

Transferring from a community college to a state university can sometimes be confusing and difficult. The following is a guide to help you know what to expect.

Record of Contacts

1. IMPORTANT: For each contact with the transfer institution, keep a written record of the name of the person to whom you talked, date and the type of request. Keep a copy of all emails, faxes, and letters you send and receive. You many want to consider sending correspondence by certified mail. Make sure any recommendations for course requirements are in writing.

Admission Requirements

2. Check with an Florida Community College campus counselor or advisor to see if you meet the admission requirements for the university and also the college/school of your major within the university. It is possible to be admitted by the university but not the college within the university. In some cases, the university cannot process the application of an A.A. graduate if the student has not declared a major on the university application. Some majors are defined as “limited access” and have additional requirements (e.g., minimum GPA above 2.0, CLAST test scores, etc.).

Prerequisite Courses

3. Some majors have required prerequisite courses for admission. Check to see if you have completed the prerequisite courses for the major you have planned. Not having prerequisite courses will block your admission into some programs or lengthen your time to degree completion.

Visit

4. You are encouraged to visit the university prior to applying. Check with the office of admission to visit the campus.

Deadline for Admission Application

5. Complete and submit the admission application during your sophomore year in the community college (or when you have earned 45 credits toward your AA degree). The application should be submitted at least six months prior to the term you plan to enter. There is an application fee which is non-refundable. Many limited access programs may have a separate application and/or deadline.

Transcripts

6. Have original official, unopened transcripts from all institutions you have attended sent directly to the university’s admissions office. If you are enrolled now, be sure to send a final transcript at the end of the term.

Financial Aid/Scholarships

7. If you plan to obtain financial aid, you must complete the FAFSA form. You must have a financial aid transcript for each institution you have attended sent to the transfer institution’s financial aid office. Review the availability of transfer scholarships by visiting the transfer office Web site for the selected university.

Housing

8. If you want housing on or off campus, contact the university housing office for assistance. A separate application and deadline may apply. Apply early; housing spaces are limited.

Orientation

9. If an orientation program is offered, plan to attend. This will help you to schedule courses, register and learn the academic policies.

Academic and Registration Policies

10. Check out the academic and registration policies and procedures; they are usually different from those at the institution you are currently attending. Be aware of drop, grade, withdrawal, repeat policies and continuous enrollment requirements.

Auditions/Portfolios

11. For some programs in dance, music, theater and art, an audition or portfolio may also be required.

Continuous Enrollment

12. As long as you maintain continuous enrollment, as defined by the university you plan to attend, your requirements are those specified by the catalog under which you enter, or you may meet the requirements of the current catalog.

Major

13. Early in the process, select your major and the university to which you plan to transfer. Make an appointment with a Florida Community College counselor or advisor to learn about course and admissions requirements. Indecision can jeopardize admission to the university. If you are undecided on a major, see an Florida Community College campus counselor or advisor early.

Some majors are “limited access” and have requirements in addition to the A.A. Degree. You must meet these requirements BEFORE being admitted into the major.

Need Assistance?

14. The transfer office can be a valuable resource as you go through the transfer process. This office can get through the internal university offices more easily and get answers faster than you can.

Caution – Transfer Without an A.A. Degree

15. If you’re considering transferring to the university before you receive your A.A. degree, check the requirements to without an A.A. degree before you transfer. Please read below about the Advantages to Transferring with an A.A. Degree.