Many students consider making the switch to Hopkins, and naturally, they have questions. We’ve rounded up the top five questions transfer applicants ask to help you feel more prepared about what’s ahead.
Here are some of the most common questions we receive from transfer applicants:
1. How do you consider my high school academic performance?
We require high school transcripts for all transfer applicants in addition to college transcripts. Your high school transcript serves as the foundation for your academic narrative, which we evaluate in context through a holistic review of all application materials. As we review your materials, we do consider the time that has passed since high school along with any academic progress or growth.
2. Will my credits transfer? How does credit evaluation work?
We aren’t able to confirm credit transferability for prospective students. Admitted transfer students receive preliminary credit assessment at the time of admission, which estimates transferrable credits. Official credit evaluation for matriculated students begins in the summer before they enroll through a review conducted by academic departments and advising.
You can learn more about our transfer credit policies here.
3. Do you offer scholarships for transfer students?
Our financial aid meets 100% of demonstrated need for all domestic transfer students through need-based scholarships, rather than merit scholarships, and work-study opportunities. We do not include loans in our financial aid offers. That way, our students can fully participate in our community without the burden of debt.
While financial aid helps with educational costs, students can also receive funding for everything from laptops to study abroad, so they can enjoy all Hopkins has to offer. This includes paid research, on-campus jobs, and internships.
We currently do not offer financial aid to international transfer students. Please note your citizenship status determines your financial aid eligibility regardless of whether you attend a university or college within the U.S.
4. I have previously applied to Hopkins. Will this affect my chances now?
Each year’s applicant pool is different, and we review the applicant in the context of their current application pool and with their updated materials. Previous admissions decisions do not affect future outcomes, but please note transfer admission is still highly selective.
If you are reapplying for admission, consider what may have changed since your previous application. This can include academic and community experiences inside and outside the classroom or special circumstances you choose to write about in your transfer essay or the additional information section.
5. Can I still be pre-med or pre-law, do research, or study abroad? What other academic opportunities are available to transfer students?
Absolutely! Transfer students can do all the above and more. There are lots of campus resources in place to help every Blue Jay make the most of their time at Hopkins. The Imagine Center, for instance, houses offices like Life Design Lab and Hopkins Office of Undergraduate Research (HOUR) to help you find hands-on learning experiences that align with your interests. A network of advisors will also work with you to ensure a smooth transition and help you achieve your goals.
For more insights into the transfer application process, sign up for a virtual information session.
