Transfer Information

Transferring To A University
FAQs (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?

The Career and Transfer Center (CTC) is located within the Counseling Center in Moler Hall. The CTC houses seven computers for students to browse college/university websites and catalogs. Worksheets and university flyers are also available in the Career and Transfer Center. Click here for transfer guides.

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) 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. 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’s never too early to start planning for a smooth transfer to another institution. The Lee College Career and Transfer Center has resources available to help you including applications, catalogs, transfer plans, and admissions information.

Transferring can be easily accomplished by following these easy steps:

1. Complete an application for admission to the college(s) you are considering. The application deadline will vary for most schools. A nonrefundable 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.
2. Have official transcript(s) sent to the university from any previous colleges 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 a couple weeks after receiving your transcript. If your evaluation does not seem to be correct, meet with an admissions representative or Lee College Counselor for further assistance.
3. 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.
4. Make an appointment to meet with a university academic advisor for your major. Most universities will have faculty advisors rather than a central counseling center. You will usually receive the name of your assigned advisor from the Admissions office. 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 an orientation session for your major.
5. Register for classes. Most universities will have some type of automated registration system. 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 $1000 to $6000 a semester for tuition and fees. University of Houston, Lamar, Sam Houston State and Stephen F. Austin Universities charge approximately $1200 (12 credits) for one semester of tuition and fees. University of Texas and Texas A & M University are approximately $1500 per semester for tuition and fees. Private schools, such as Baylor or Rice will be about $6000 a semester for tuition and fees. Book prices will be similar across the state; plan for about $450 per semester.

Another cost consideration is housing, if you are not commuting. Residence halls will range from $4000 and higher (with a meal plan) a year. 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. If you need help locating scholarships or loans, contact a Lee College Counselor or check out the university’s website. Most libraries will also have scholarship guides with additional opportunities for finding money to help pay for college expenses.