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Frequently Asked Questions
Students planning to transfer to 4-year schools should be aware that each university determines its own list of courses required for each degree offered. Moreover, different colleges require different courses for the same degree. Therefore, students who plan to transfer to other institutions should use the degree plan and/or transfer requirements at that institution to guide their choice of courses at Lee College. The best source of information regarding degree plan requirements is the official catalog of the institution which is typically found on the institution's website.
Where can I find transfer information?
Transfer information for a particular university can be located on the university website and/or catalog. A good place to start is the prospective or future students sections. Oftentimes, there will be a section geared towards transfer students. Some universities even provide easy-to-read transfer guides to assist students in preparing for transfer.
What classes should I take to transfer?
The classes you take will depend upon at least two important things: your major and your intended transfer school. There are numerous university transfer guides for students. These transfer guides list the courses that will transfer and count towards your major at the university. If your college does not have them online then a counselor will be able to create a list for you based on the college's catalog. If you do not have a major or you do not know where you would like to transfer then you should focus on completing the core curriculum (the basics).
When is the best time to transfer to a 4-year institution?
Most often, transfer students are required to take a specific number of credit hours (usually at least 15 or 30 semester credit hours) and have a minimum GPA to be eligible for transfer student admissions. That, generally, means admission decisions will be made by looking at your college transcript not your high school record or SAT/ACT scores. In most cases, students can transfer up to about 66 college credit hours to a university. Although some institutions will accept transfer students with a 2.0 GPA, most require a higher GPA. Advisors and counselors will usually recommend that you transfer once you have completed the core curriculum and perhaps some additional coursework, depending upon where you are transferring.
How do I transfer?
It is never too early to start planning for a smooth transfer to another institution.
Transferring can be easily accomplished by following these easy steps:
- Complete an application for admission to the college(s) you are considering. The application deadline will vary for most schools. A non-refundable application fee usually is required. All public universities in the state of Texas will accept the Texas Common Application which can be completed online. The advantage to the Texas Common Application is electronic submission of your application. Another advantage is using the same application to apply to multiple colleges.
- Have official transcript(s) sent to the university from any previous colleges and/or universities attended. The evaluation of previous credits will determine which classes will transfer and count towards your major. Usually, the university will send you a copy of this evaluation or post the results within its electronic student information system in a couple weeks after receiving your transcript. If your evaluation does not seem to be correct, meet with one of the university's admissions representatives or advisor.
- Complete your financial aid paperwork. Universities will have priority deadlines for federal aid (FAFSA) applications and scholarships. If you are planning to be at the university in the fall, the deadline will probably be in early March. The Federal Pell Grant application may be completed online or with help from the Lee College Financial Aid Office.
- Make an appointment to meet with a university academic advisor for your major. Most universities will have faculty or professional advisors within each department, rather than a central counseling/advising center. Be sure to bring an extra copy of your transcript and transcript evaluation so you are prepared to discuss your degree plan. Your advisor may recommend for you to attend a transfer orientation or an orientation session for your major.
- Register for classes. Most universities will have some type of online registration system, similar to myLC Campus. Be sure that your advisor has given you the information you will need to register.
How much does it cost to go to a university?
The average cost to attend a university in the state of Texas ranges from $3,000 to $12,000 a semester for tuition and fees. Public universities tuition and fees cost, on average, $3,690 per semester (15 semester credit hours). Private or independent universities, such as Baylor or Rice, will be, on average, about $11,600 a semester (15 semester credit hours) for tuition and fees. Book prices will be similar across the state; plan for about $600-750 per semester.
Another cost consideration is housing, if you are not commuting. Students can cut costs by sharing an apartment or renting a room. It is important to remember that your financial aid package, which often includes grants, scholarships, and loans, will probably increase when you transfer so it will help defray the costs. Most libraries will also have scholarship guides with additional opportunities for finding money to help pay for college expenses.
Get cost estimates for attending various institutions of higher education.