Best Colleges to Transfer To: U.S. & Canada Guide

Why Students Transfer Colleges

Transferring is common—about 1 in 3 students change colleges. Reasons vary, but most fall into these categories:

• Academic mismatch
• Social or cultural fit
• Mental health or personal reasons
• Affordability
• Location preferences

When Is the Right Time to Transfer?

Most schools require at least 24–30 completed credits before accepting transfer students. It’s common to transfer after the first year, though some schools also offer spring intakes for mid-year moves.

What to Look For in a Transfer-Friendly College

Before committing to your next school, evaluate how well it supports transfer students. Here's what to look for:

Transfer Credit Policies

Will your hard-earned credits actually count? Some schools make this easy with online credit evaluation tools. For example, the University of Maryland offers a course equivalency database, and UCLA has an entire platform for community college students.

Mini Checklist:

• Are transfer credits accepted from your current institution?
• Is there a maximum credit limit?
• Will your major courses transfer, or just electives?

Dedicated Transfer Student Support

Top schools like UChicago offer programs like the Phoenix Scholars, which pair new transfer students with mentors. UCLA has a dedicated transfer student center and student clubs.

Financial Aid for Transfer Students

Look for:

• Merit-based aid open to transfer applicants
• School-specific transfer scholarships (e.g., USC Transfer Merit)
• Federal/state aid availability (for public universities)

Campus Integration Programs

Programs like UCLA’s Transfer Summer Program or UNC’s Carolina Firsts help new students connect, get advising, and succeed academically.

Best Colleges to Transfer to in the U.S.

These schools are known for accepting significant numbers of transfers and offering strong support systems.

Private Colleges with Strong Transfer Support

• Amherst College - Need-blind transfer aid, small seminar classes
• Pomona College - High transfer success, strong academic advising
• USC - Accepts many community college students
• Smith College - Women’s college with a strong transfer record

Want to know more about the college application process?

Community College Pathways: TAG and Articulation Agreements

Programs like California’s TAG allow students at community colleges to secure guaranteed spots at UC schools, assuming they meet credit and GPA requirements.

Other states also offer articulation agreements that simplify transfer to four-year universities. Check your state’s higher education transfer guide or portal.

Comparing Transfer vs. Freshman Admission Rates

GPA and Credit Requirements by School

Underrated Colleges That Are Great for Transfers

• Temple University - High transfer acceptance, strong urban programs
• University of Central Florida (UCF) - Online-friendly, flexible credit transfers
• SUNY Binghamton - Affordable for NY residents, solid STEM programs
• University of Guelph (Canada) - Personalized transfer advising, small class sizes

These colleges offer practical, affordable, and well-supported paths for students who may not be looking for the Ivy League—but still want strong academics and a better fit.

Online Colleges That Welcome Transfers

If you want flexibility, online schools can be a smart option:

• Arizona State University Online: Broad transfer credit policy, fully online majors.
• SNHU: Generous credit transfer, transparent requirements.
• Penn State World Campus: Accredited online programs from a top-tier public university.

Make sure the school is regionally accredited, especially if you plan to apply to grad school later.

Best Colleges to Transfer to in Canada

Top Canadian Universities That Welcome Transfers

University of Toronto

Transfer-Friendly?: Yes

Key Points: Competitive admissions; detailed credit assessments

UBC

Transfer-Friendly?:Yes

Key Points: Welcomes U.S. transfers; uses a clear GPA cutoff

McGill University

Transfer-Friendly?: Yes

Key Points: Top programs in science, arts, business

What’s Different About Transferring in Canada

• Applications go directly to each school (no Common App).
• Focus is largely on academic performance—less holistic.
• You may need to submit syllabi for credit evaluation.
• Canadian schools often use a percentage GPA system.

Check out ONTransfer (Ontario) or BCTransferGuide (British Columbia) for detailed course equivalencies and timelines.

Cross-Border Transfers: U.S. to Canada and Vice Versa

If you're thinking about crossing the border, here’s what to keep in mind:

From the U.S. to Canada

• Apply directly to each institution (no centralized portal).
• U.S. transcripts are generally accepted, but GPA conversion may apply.
• Some schools ask for syllabi to determine course equivalency.
• Student visa (study permit) is required and typically easy to obtain.

From Canada to the U.S.

• Your courses are evaluated for transfer credit—WES (World Education Services) may be required.
• You’ll apply via the school’s direct portal or the Common App.
• Many schools waive SAT/ACT for applicants with enough college credit.
• Watch for state residency rules that affect public university tuition.

Plan ahead, as visa timelines, financial aid eligibility, and transfer credit assessments can vary widely.

How to Boost Your Chances as a Transfer Student

GPA and Transcript Tips

Aim for a 3.0–3.5 GPA to stay competitive. Get official and unofficial transcripts ready early, and check them for accuracy.

Write a Strong Transfer Essay

Avoid clichés or venting about your current school. Instead:

• Focus on why the new school fits your academic goals.
• Be specific: mention professors, programs, or resources that appeal to you.

Letters of Recommendation

Ask instructors who can speak to your work ethic, academic growth, and potential. At least one letter should come from a college-level professor.

Timeline Tips

• Start prepping 3–4 months before deadlines.
• Create a checklist for your application timeline: transcripts, college essays, letters, applications, activities list, aid forms.

Questions to Ask Admissions Offices Before You Transfer

Talking to someone in the admissions office might feel awkward—but it can make or break your decision.

Here’s what to ask:

• How many of my credits will transfer?
• Are there restrictions by department or major?
• Will I receive a course-by-course evaluation?
• Do you offer spring or mid-year transfers?
• What’s the typical decision timeline?
• Can I apply as a sophomore if I have fewer than 30 credits?
• Are transfer students eligible for merit or need-based aid?
• Are there scholarships specifically for transfer students?
• Can I apply for work-study or federal grants?
• Is transfer housing guaranteed or available?
• Will I attend orientation with first-years?
• Are there organizations or mentors for transfer students?

Don’t be afraid to follow up. Admissions counselors are there to help—and a thoughtful question often leaves a good impression.

Summary: Finding the Best Fit for Your Next Move

Transferring isn’t about giving up—it’s about choosing better. Whether that means lower costs, a stronger academic match, or a more supportive community, the best colleges to transfer to will help you move forward, not start over.

Make your list. Talk to advisors. Ask questions. The best college is the one that helps you thrive.

FAQs

To your success,

Your friends at BeMo

BeMo Academic Consulting