How to Transfer to Columbia: Hear from a Student Who Made It!

Columbia University is one of the most selective schools in the world, and transferring in is even more competitive. They typically admit fewer than 10 per cent of the applicants for transfer admission each year.  But it’s not impossible!

We’ve helped students transfer to Columbia, and we know what it takes to stand out in the applicant pool.

Here’s what one of our students had to say:

“Futureworks helped me to transfer by helping me build a really strong resume in college. They helped me craft a unique narrative, carefully weaving together my personal experiences, school activities, college research, and leadership achievements. Having worked with another counsellor for my freshman applications, I can confidently say that the difference they make is tremendous.”

What makes transfer applications different?

Transfer applications are different from first-year applications in a few critical ways:

  • You need to have a strong college GPA. While Columbia’s website states that it typically admits transfer students with a minimum GPA of 3.5, your GPA should be closer to 4.
  • You need to have a clear and compelling reason for transferring. Why do you want to transfer to Columbia specifically? What can you offer that other transfer applicants can’t?
  • Your letters of recommendation need to be from college professors, not high school teachers.

How can Futureworks help you transfer to Columbia?

We can help you with every aspect of the transfer application process, from building your resume and writing your personal statement to choosing the right schools and preparing for your interviews.

We understand the unique challenges of transfer applications, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Contact us to understand how you can boost your chances of transferring to Columbia!

Transferring to UCLA

Did you know that last year alone 3,647 students transferred to UCLA?

Here are some of the academic requirements for transfer applicants:

  • Junior-level standing (60 semester or 90 quarter transferable units completed) by the end of the spring term before you transfer
  • Most transfer students have an average GPA of 3.5. However, in our experience, international students should aim to have a GPA of 4.
  • Completion of major preparation requirements by the end of spring prior to transfer
  • Completion of the following course requirements by spring prior to transfer:
    • Two transferable courses in English composition, critical thinking, and writing
    • One transferable math course with a prerequisite of intermediate algebra or higher
    • Four transferable college courses in at least two of the following subject areas: arts and humanities, social and behavioural sciences, physical and biological sciences

UCLA gives preference to students in community colleges in California, but that doesn’t mean that out-of-state or international students don’t have a chance. UCLA also considers personal factors such as employment while attending school, involvement in campus organizations and community service, family responsibilities, significant improvement in academic performance over time, and other opportunities or challenges that may have shaped your educational experience.

UCLA is a competitive school, but with hard work and dedication, anything is possible! If you’re interested in transferring to UCLA, contact us