Transfer FAQ

General Questions on Transferring

Who is available to help me with transfer planning?
The Tri-C Counseling Center can help you develop an academic plan that considers your academic background, course prerequisites and educational goals. The Tri-C Transfer Center is available to help you with the transfer process, including researching schools and partnerships, connecting with four-year schools and filling out applications for transfer admission or scholarships. These services are available at all Tri-C locations. 

Do I need to submit official transcripts from all schools that I have attended?
Most four-year schools will require you to submit transcripts from all previously attended institutions. Schools may wait to provide an admission decision until all transcripts are received. Contact the Transfer Center if you need help navigating application and admission requirements. You can order your official Tri-C transcript online in My Tri-C Space.

When should I start planning for transfer?
It's never too soon to start planning! Getting an early start on your transfer planning can help you make sure that you're taking the right courses for transfer and setting yourself up for success. Keep in mind that many colleges and universities require you to apply for admission several months ahead of your intended start date. Review the transfer planning timeline for more assistance.

What type of transfer pathways are available to Tri-C students?
Tri-C students can take advantage of our partnership agreements with more than 40 institutions, as well as transfer guarantees and pathways that apply at any public university in Ohio. Each partnership is unique – be sure to check out Tri-C's transfer partnerships webpage for details and visit the Transfer Center with any questions. Keep in mind that Tri-C credits can transfer all over the country, so you aren't limited to partnership or in-state schools for transfer. 

Can I/Should I apply to more than one school?
As you develop a transfer plan with a Transfer Specialist, it may be recommended that you apply to two or more schools. This allows you to consider your options in choosing what school would support you in achieving your goals. Transfer specialists can help you research your options, as well as with the application process. 

Grades and Academic Items

What is the best degree for transfer?
The Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Science (AS) degrees are the most transfer-friendly degrees. Although applied degrees (AAS and AAB) are generally not designed for transfer, there are seamless transfer pathways available for select majors. It is recommended that you meet regularly with a Tri-C counselor to discuss your degree plan, course selections and what degree may best fit in your transfer plans to your transfer school/academic program. 

Are there advantages in completing a Tri-C degree before transferring?
Yes. Some schools will waive general education requirements or will guarantee junior-year status. Some universities also provide additional transfer scholarships for those who complete an associate degree. If you are transferring before completing your associate degree, see your Transfer Center to discuss options for reverse transfer. 

What grade point average (GPA) do I need in order to transfer a four-year school?
Most four-year schools require at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA from all current and previous two- and four-year schools you have attended. More selective schools will have higher cumulative GPA requirements for transfer students. In addition, your selected major may have a minimum GPA requirement. 

Will my credits transfer?
Tri-C courses that are part of the Ohio Transfer 36 (OT36) (previously known as the Ohio Transfer Module/OTM) or Transfer Assurance Guide (TAG) are guaranteed to transfer to any public college or university in the state. A complete listing of Tri-C OTM and TAG courses is available in the college catalog.

Most technical courses taken as part of an applied degree program are not guaranteed to transfer and/or apply towards major requirements at your four-year school. 

How can I find out how my Tri-C coursework and degree will apply to my intended major at my transfer school?
Once you have been accepted, four-year schools will provide you with an official transfer credit evaluation outlining how your Tri-C coursework and degree apply to your intended major. Some schools will provide an unofficial transfer credit evaluation prior to application. Contact the Tri-C Transfer Center for assistance with securing an unofficial transfer credit evaluation. 

Does my GPA transfer to the schools that I will be attending?
Your GPA does not transfer, but it will be used for scholarship and admission consideration. Also keep in mind if you plan to attend graduate school, your Tri-C GPA will likely factor in when reviewing you for admission into graduate-level programs. 

Financial Aid

Will my financial aid follow me to my transfer school?
Students must complete a new FAFSA each year in order to receive Federal financial aid.  Once a FAFSA is completed and submitted, students should follow up with that college’s financial aid office regarding their eligibility. The FAFSA typically opens each year beginning October 1. 

How many colleges can I send my FAFSA to?
You can send your FAFSA to a maximum of 10 schools. On the FAFSA, it will ask for either the federal school code for each school, or you can use the search feature to add the school.

Where can I find information on transfer scholarships?
Check with your prospective school’s financial aid and scholarship page for details on available transfer scholarships they offer. Visit our Transfer Timeline page for additional scholarship resources.

Who can help with questions about my Tri-C financial aid?
Contact the Tri-C Student Financial Aid and Scholarships office for assistance. View this short video for additional tips: Financial Aid Tips for Transfer Students.