Every year, students make common mistakes, like waiting too long to turn in their application or to meet with a counselor. To combat bumps in the road, the Transfer Center gave The Hornet some tips and highlighted common mistakes made to make the journey seamless.
Top 7 Transfer Mistakes FC Students Make
Waiting until the last minute to apply – Applications take much longer than most students think. It’s important to space out enough time to complete each section early in case questions need to be answered.
Not checking in with a counselor – Students are encouraged to check in with their counselor each semester to ensure they are on track to earn their degree.
Entering coursework incorrectly – Students must enter their coursework exactly as their transcript states, if information is input incorrectly their application may not be accepted. Students are encouraged to double check with transfer specialists to ensure everything is correct before submitting.
Forgetting to add all schools attended – All schools attended must be on an application, students commonly mistake Cypress College as another campus as it is a sister school to FC, but it must still be recorded as another school.
Missing application steps – Double check all boxes to ensure everything is filled out.
Forgetting spring classes – Students make the mistake of not entering their spring courses and only entering their fall courses but spring must be recorded to complete the application progress.
Missing deadlines/follow ups – Students forget to check emails regularly, universities request transcripts and documents which may hold up applications.
Start Early, Earlier Than You Think
According to Transfer Center Specialist Kassandra Flores, the best way to have a smooth application process is to start planning at least a year in advance. Planning ahead means allowing enough time to explore your options. Students should look into majors they are interested in, campuses and requirements, transfer center canvas exploration and counselor appointments.
Flores mentions another common mistake students have made is forgetting to add their spring course work. Students must have added the spring courses that they planned to take on their Fall 2026 application. If a student forgot to add their courses or forgot a course altogether, it could result in pushing their transfer date further back. This can be prevented by regularly checking in with a counselor.
Plan Accordingly
Cecilia Arriaza, the director of the Transfer Center, said students tend to underestimate how much time it takes to fill out an application.
Arriaza recommended students map out multiple options and to reach out for help if needed. Fee waivers are also available for students, which can cover up to four campuses, depending on the student’s or family’s income.
Arriaza also said that students should be sure to follow up on deadlines and remember to update applications as grades are posted.
The transfer center provides virtual and in-person workshops, as well as drop in hours from 8:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. to assist students with their applications.
