Transferring from a community college to a four-year college or university can be made simple and efficient by understanding the process and by proper planning. Commonly believed misconceptions surrounding transfer include:

• Misconception #1: If I complete my associate degree all my courses will transfer.

Correct Answer: Even with a completed degree, courses will be evaluated individually to determine transferability.

• Misconception #2: By only taking general education requirements, I will ensure an efficient transfer to a four-year college or university.

Correct Answer: In the Maryland System, universities do transfer recognized general education courses from community colleges. However, to take just any courses in this category may not be efficient and can often result in a poor transfer.

• Misconception #3: If I complete my associate’s degree and then transfer, I will be a junior and need only two more years to complete my degree.

Correct Answer: A completed associate’s degree does not guarantee junior standing. In order to reach junior standing, you need sixty transferable credits. Junior standing also does not necessarily mean you will need only two more years to complete your degree. This is accomplished when your associate’s degree is comprised of courses that meet general education requirements and discipline requirements specified by the major at your chosen transfer institution.

• Misconception #4: I need a 2.00 GPA and a completed degree in order to transfer into any major.

Correct Answer: Some colleges, universities, and majors require students to have GPAs higher than a 2.00.