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Is a Transfer the Right Move? The Top 5 Reasons Students Switch Schools
College transfers are on the rise, prompted by various factors. According to research, the top motivators are cost, location, academic programs, college fit, and mental health. While transferring can be beneficial, it also comes with trade-offs to weigh. For parents seeking to advise student children, understanding the main drivers behind transferring equips you to have meaningful discussions around whether changing colleges makes sense.
Making the decision to transfer colleges can be difficult, but many students realize it is the best option. If you are thinking about transferring, here are 5 major reasons students switch schools:
1. Cost: Rising tuition causes financial strain for lots of students. Nearly 30% transfer to find more affordable options with better financial aid and lower overall costs. Saving money is key.
2. Location: Moving back closer to home is why around 20% transfer. Being far from family is a big adjustment. Some students become homesick and desire their support system nearby, making transferring closer to home helpful.
3. Academic Programs: If a school doesn't offer a student’s preferred major or career focus, around 20% transfer to access these programs elsewhere. For goal-oriented students, transferring allows them to find specialized majors to advance professionally.
4. Environment: Between 10-15% transfer due to social or cultural aspects of a school. Some struggle to find their niche or adapt to a campus’ size, diversity, or vibe. Transferring provides a fresh start to find the right fit.
5. Mental Health: In one study, 95% of transferring students cited mental health as critical. The pressures of school profoundly impact wellbeing. By moving schools, students can escape negative environments to better care for mental health.
Considering issues like academics, finances, health, and support when transferring enables smoother transitions to better situations. Though tough, transferring is getting more popular and can really pay off.
"College MatchPoint helps steer and advise you from beginning to end of the college search and application process. They take what can be a very stressful time and break it down into smaller, manageable pieces. Bob, Lisa and their staff support their student clients, enabling them to find the best fit. You can trust that the process will work; it did for all 3 of my very different kids."
— Ellen Miura
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