The Complete Guide to College Transfer

“Jaime Smith turns what feels like a maze into a map. A clear, compassionate, and practical guide for transfer students navigating a system that too often overlooks them.” – Jeffrey Selingo, New York Times bestselling author of Who Gets In and Why: A Year Inside College Admissions “By illuminating behind-the-scenes institutional processes – credit articulation, partnership programs, admissions, and financial aid – Jaime Smith guides learners to claim ownership of their academic histories and make informed decisions about their futures. This book is grounded in real student experiences and written in accessible language. You simply will not find a more approachable or comprehensive resource for successfully undertaking college transfer.” – Janet L. Marling, PhD, executive director of the National Institute for the Study of Transfer Students (NISTS) “The number of students transferring between colleges continues to increase significantly and so do the challenges. In this book, you’ll find practical advice, timely insight, and solace in what can too often be an unclear and daunting experience.” – Rick Clark, executive director of Strategic Student Access at Georgia Tech and coauthor of The Truth About College Admission: A Family Guide to Getting In and Staying Together “The Complete Guide to College Transfer is a smart, student-centered resource that demystifies the transfer process and empowers learners to take control of their academic journey. With thoughtful nods to Phi Theta Kappa and the unique strengths of community college students, this guide recognizes the potential in every transfer story – and offers practical tools to help students make the most of it.” – Lynn Tincher-Ladner, PhD, president and CEO of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society “Finally, a book that demystifies the college transfer process! Certified educational planner Jaime Smith brings years of practical experience to her exceptional new book. Case studies and helpful advice make this a must-have text for any student contemplating a transfer. The Complete Guide to College Transfer counsels students to assess their credits, weigh financial options, and ultimately make their right-fit college decision. Whether their reason for transferring is academic, financial, social, or personal, students will benefit from Smith’s thoughtful and astute guidance.” – Andrea Malkin Brenner, PhD, creator of Talking College™ card decks and coauthor of How to College: What to Know Before You Go (and When You’re There) “Jaime Smith’s The Complete Guide to College Transfer is a long-overdue resource for the millions of students who begin but don’t finish their college journey. With clarity, empathy, and deep expertise, Smith offers practical strategies and advice for navigating the often overlooked complexities of transferring schools. This book is a road map for students seeking a second chance at finding their right college fit. Its real-world examples allow students to see themselves throughout the entire book.” – Sydney Matthes, chief programs officer of Service to School “This outstanding book offers invaluable guidance to the millions of students who transfer colleges during their academic journey. Through compelling case studies, it not only highlights the diverse reasons students choose to transfer but also normalizes an often overlooked yet common part of the college experience. Jaime Smith, already recognized as a national expert on college transfers, shares her deep knowledge and remarkable storytelling to great effect. As the parent of a student whose personal growth led her to seek a new college – and who blossomed into a true scholar at her new school – I understand both personally and professionally the profound impact of finding the right fit, even if it doesn’t happen straight out of high school. I only wish we’d had this book when we were navigating the complexities and emotional weight of the transfer process.” – Mark Sklarow, CEO emeritus of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) “The Complete Guide to College Transfer is a lifeline for transfer students striving for success. Jaime Smith provides a clear, comprehensive road map that helps students navigate the complexities of changing colleges. This well-researched guide offers practical advice on everything from comparing credit transfers to understanding financial aid options. With expert tips, insightful case studies, and a detailed timetable for the transfer process, Smith empowers students to avoid common pitfalls and make informed, confident decisions.” – Steven R. Antonoff, PhD, author of College Match and A Student of Colleges, coauthor of The College Finder, independent educational consultant, trainer, and certified educational planner “Jaime Smith brings needed clarity and authenticity to a complex and growing student population: college transfers. Her use of case studies and emphasis on financial literacy make this book an essential part of a student’s transfer journey.” – April Gamble, MEd, associate director of admissions at The College of Wooster “Jaime Smith provides a timely and important guidebook on the many nuances of becoming a successful transfer student. There’s never one right way to do higher education, and this book gives many wonderful examples and case studies for how to make college work for a variety of students. I’m sure this resource will be a huge asset to many students.” – Mia Nosanow, MA, LP, author of The College Student’s Guide to Mental Health “This book is a gift to anyone navigating the complex and often overwhelming world of transfer admissions. At once a compassionate, step-by-step guide and an indispensable reference, it meets students exactly where they are – whether transferring from a community college, starting over after a false start, or seeking a better fit – and empowers them with clarity, strategy, and encouragement.” – Sheila Akbar, PhD, president and CEO of Signet Education

“In The Complete Guide to College Transfer, Jaime Smith offers an inclusive and compassionate road map for anyone navigating the transfer journey. She acknowledges and values the wide range of transfer backgrounds and stories – ensuring that every student feels seen and empowered. No stone is left unturned in her approach to this often overlooked process. As a transfer-specific admissions counselor, I only wish every student I work with could read this book.”– Ryann Wegrzyn, senior associate director of transfer admissions, Willamette University

Jaime Smith, MA, MSEd, CEP, is a college adviser and certified educational planner with twenty-five years of experience. She specializes in transfer admissions, homeschoolers, neurodiverse learners, and other nontraditional students. She lives in Eugene, Oregon, and blogs about transfer.