We’ve compiled a list of questions you might want to think about prior to meeting with your Western advisor, the Transfer Coordinator, and/or the four-year institution you're thinking about transferring to. After reviewing this list, you should be well-prepared to ask the right questions and receive the correct answers. 

Preparation for a Transfer Discussion 

• Check out websites of colleges/degrees of interest to you 
• Bring a copy of your unofficial transcripts and, if possible, transfer agreements of interest 
• Have a list of questions to ask and be ready to take notes! 

Career Goals 

• What is my career goal? 
• Will this degree relate to my career goal? 
• Will my bachelor’s degree improve my ability to acquire a job or allow me to advance in my career field? 

Location 

• Do I need to travel to your campus to take classes and are the classes offered in non-traditional format? 
• Do you have classes at other campuses that might be more convenient for me? 

Cost/Financial Aid 

• What is the cost per credit for a class from this institution? Is there a difference in the cost of online courses versus traditional courses? 
• What is the application fee? 
• Are there any additional course fees? 
• Is there a difference between the cost of private and non-private colleges? Why? 
• What do I have to do to receive financial aid at your college? 
• Are there scholarships that I am eligible for (i.e. specific transfer, program, background, etc.)? 

National/Regional Accreditation 

• Is your college well respected in the community? 
• Is the college nationally or regionally accredited? 
• Does your college have a physical location in a state? 
• Will the credits taken at this college be accepted by other colleges for advanced degrees (i.e. graduate school)? 

Credits 

• Will you review my credits before I apply? Do an unofficial course evaluation? 
• What is the maximum number of credits that I can transfer to your institution that will count towards my program? 
• How many credits do I need in addition to my associate degree to complete this specific bachelor’s degree? 
• How many credits in the major/minor need to be completed at your institution? 
• How many credits are in this bachelor’s degree program? 
• Does your college have semester or quarter credits? 

Timing 

• Should I finish my associate degree first? 
• When can I apply? When can I register for classes? 
• If I decide not to attend your institution or decide classes are not for me, when is the withdrawal date? 
• Can I attend part-time or full-time? 
• Is there a late fee charge for application or payment of credits? 
• Are there opportunities for summer classes, winter/summer break classes, hybrid classes, weekend classes? 

Housing 

• Is there a requirement to live on campus as a transfer student? 
• How do I find out about available rental apartments in the area? 
• How do I sign up for campus housing? 

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