How to Transfer

Recognized as a transfer-friendly college, we take pride in making your transition to Columbia College seamless.

You can transfer a total of 90 credit hours from any regionally accredited college or university.

When should I transfer? 

You can apply anytime. We accept applications for all of our programs on a rolling basis. If you're accepted, we'll work to find a place for you as quickly as possible. 

Please contact us at 803.786.3871 with any questions about the enrollment timeline.  

How do I apply as a transfer student? 

Are you a student coming from Midlands Technical College? If so, learn more about the MTC to Columbia College transfer process.

1. Start Your Free Online Application 

Use our application or the common application to get started. You can always take a break and come back to finish or check your status.

You're considered a transfer student if you've completed classes of any kind at a college or university AFTER completion of high school. 

2. Request Your Transcript

This includes official transcripts from all colleges previously attended as well as your high school transcript if you have not earned 30 or more college credits. This includes dual enrollment. Official transcripts should be sent directly from each school.

Send your transcripts electronically to: documents@columbiasc.edu or you can send them to the following address:

3. Transfer Your Credit Hours

Only classes in which you have received a 2.0 or higher will be accepted and we reserve the right to determine which courses meet the requirements and standards of the College. We only accept transfer credits from regionally accredited colleges and universities.

Once your admission file is complete, it will be sent to the registrar for an official transfer evaluation that determines the number of transfer hours to which you are entitled. You can transfer a total of 90 credit hours from any regionally accredited college or university.

MTC to Columbia College 

Graduation Requirements 

In order to graduate after transferring, you'll need to complete at least 30 credit hours at Columbia College. You'll also need to take at least 12 credit hours in your respective major. This does not include pass/fail classes.

For a minor, you will need to take at least 1/2 of the credit hours at Columbia College.

Learn more about transfer credits and other frequently asked questions. 

FAQs

Will my credits transfer?

We accept transfer credit in which you received a 2.0/C or higher, but we reserve the right to determine which courses meet the College’s current curriculum requirements. For example, we only accept transfer credits from regionally accredited colleges and universities. A complete transfer evaluation will be sent after acceptance into the College.

What does “regional accreditation” mean and why is it important?

When a college or university is regionally accredited it means they adhere to standards established by regional agencies. Most regionally accredited schools only accept credits from other regionally accredited schools. Columbia College cannot accept transfer credit from nationally accredited institutions. Also, students who attend unaccredited colleges are not eligible for federal financial aid, and often they’re not eligible for licensure and other workforce requirements.

How fast can I get my degree?

How fast you can graduate depends on several factors, particularly how many credits you’ve received prior to attending Columbia College and your course load each semester. We are able to accept a total of 90 credit hours from any regionally accredited college or university. That means you can transfer into Columbia College with senior class standing, saving you time and money. You are required to complete at least 30 credit hours at the College earning 12 credits in your specific major.

Is your school transfer friendly?

Yes, Columbia College is extremely transfer friendly. We give transfer students the same priority as incoming first year students. Students are able to transfer up to 90 credit hours to start their academic journey at the College. We were also named one of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society’s Transfer Honor Roll recipients in 2020 and 2021.

Will my financial aid and student loans transfer?

Eligibility for financial aid and federal student loans is based on the information submitted on your FAFSA form. If you are plan to use private loans or college savings plan to assist with the cost of attendance, our Office of Financial Aid will award it to your account. Learn more about your financial aid options. 

Are there grants or scholarships available to transfer students?

We offer a wide range of grants and scholarships to transfer students. Academic scholarships are awarded to eligible students based on their cumulative GPA. Program specific scholarships are available. And athletic scholarships can be awarded to recruited athletes. Based on eligibility, transfer students can also receive the South Carolina Tuition Grant and Federal Pell Grant. We also offer a scholarship to members of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Learn more about your scholarship options. 

What other benefits and support does Columbia College offer transfer students?

Transfer students have access to peer tutoring, a communication lab for assistance writing papers, licensed counselors on campus, a commuter lounge, and much more!

Can I chat with a transfer student?

If you’re interested in transferring or you have more questions about transferring, we encourage you to reach out to our admissions team. We can connect you with one of our current transfer students, so you can hear about the Columbia College transfer experience firsthand.