Here are three tips for seeking out financial aid packages while transferring between colleges, as well as some advice that can help set you up for success.
1. Explore University Scholarships
One of the best places to look for scholarships you might be eligible for is the financial aid section of your preferred school’s website. For example, Azusa Pacific University offers academic scholarships for transfer students. These scholarships can range from $7,000 to $21,000 per year and are renewable for up to four years, so students who transfer in can complete their degree and graduate from APU with financial assistance.
2. Search Outside Resources
In addition to academic scholarships, there are outside sources where you can search for scholarships based on your GPA, talents, or other factors. It’s a good idea to get in touch with the financial aid team at the university you’re interested in transferring to, as this could make it easier to find scholarship opportunities you qualify for.
You can also ask friends and students that attend the university if they know of any scholarships that apply to transfer students. You may even find a list with some outside aid suggestions on the school’s website. Remember, each scholarship is offered by individual companies and organizations, so it’s up to you to keep track of application requirements and deadlines if you want to apply.
3. Seek Sources of Financial Aid
Beyond scholarships, there are a number of other funding options that can help cover your academic costs. For instance, grants are available to students based on their ability to pay and expected expenses. In order to be eligible for most government or private grants, students will likely need to complete the FAFSA to demonstrate their financial need. And, just like scholarships, the money from grant awards does not need to be paid back after graduation—making it another excellent choice for funding your education.
If scholarships and grants won’t cover all your costs, student loans are also available. Seeking out these loans is the next step you can take after receiving scholarships and grants. It’s recommended to apply for federal loans before private ones because federal loans typically offer a better interest rate and repayment/cancellation terms.
When applying to transfer colleges, be sure to speak to an admissions representative and the school’s financial aid team for more information about available scholarships for transfer students and other resources. Investing in a college education (and your future) can be made easier with some careful planning and effort, and you can be rewarded for your hard work as you pursue your goals at your preferred school.
Looking to transfer to Azusa Pacific University and pursue your degree in Southern California? Every year, more than 600 students choose to do so. Contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions to learn more about the application requirements.