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iTransfer.org
The Illinois Transfer Student Portal

Transfer Planning for Students

  • Transfer In Illinois

    Illinois is a national leader in student transfer and credit mobility. Through the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) and institutional articulation agreements, students can transfer coursework more seamlessly between participating institutions, helping them save time, reduce costs, and stay on track toward degree completion.

    Discover your options

  • What is Articulation?

    Articulation is the process of determining how courses and credits transfer between institutions. The Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) helps streamline transfer, making it easier for students to receive credit for completed coursework and continue progressing toward their degrees.

     Read more about articulation

  • Transferology™ 

    MyCreditsTransfer is an Illinois initiative powered by Transferology™ that helps students see how their college coursework may transfer between participating colleges and universities, making it easier to plan a path to a degree.

    Students can use Transferology™ to compare how courses transfer across participating institutions and plan next steps with confidence.

    Explore Transferology™

  • Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) of Illinois

    PTK membership can provide significant advantages for students planning to transfer:

    • Eligibility for millions of dollars in transfer scholarships offered by four-year colleges and universities.
    • Recognition by many Illinois universities through dedicated PTK scholarships. For example, some state universities offer renewable scholarships for eligible transfer students who are PTK members.

    Visit the PTK website

  • Participating Institutions

    View Illinois colleges and universities that participate in the Illinois Articulation Initiative, and support student transfer pathways.

    Check the list of participating institutions

  • Transfer Inquiries

    Submit your transfer questions through our online form and receive guidance from participating Illinois institutions.

    Learn how to make your inquiries

Transfer Checklist

This checklist provides general guidance for students planning to transfer between colleges and universities. Because transfer requirements vary by institution and academic program, students should work closely with their current advisor and representatives at their intended transfer institution throughout the process.

1. Research Colleges and Universities

Identify institutions that align with your academic, personal, and career goals. Consider factors such as:

  • Academic programs and majors
  • Campus size and location
  • Housing options
  • Athletics and student activities
    Admission requirements and selectivity

Plan your coursework with your intended transfer institution in mind. Utilize Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) recommendations and the General Education Core Curriculum (GECC) whenever appropriate to support a smooth transfer process.

Whenever possible, schedule campus visits to explore the environment, meet staff and students, and determine whether the institution is a good fit for your goals.

2. Connect with Admissions Representatives

Admissions representatives can provide valuable information about transfer requirements, application procedures, and available resources.

  • Apply for admission as early as possible.
  • Request official transcripts from every institution you have attended.
  • Verify whether additional materials, such as high school transcripts or ACT/SAT scores, are required.
  • Submit updated transcripts after each completed semester prior to transfer.

Starting the process early allows institutions sufficient time to evaluate transfer credit and helps ensure a smoother transition.

3. Meet with Academic Advisors

Work with advisors and transfer counselors to select courses that support your educational goals and intended major.

Many institutions offer:

  • Transfer guides
  • Articulation agreements
  • Sample academic plans
  • Major-specific transfer recommendations

Because transfer requirements can change, always confirm current information directly with your intended transfer institution.

4. Prepare Your Financial Plan

Review financial aid opportunities and deadlines well before transferring.

Be sure to:

  • Contact the Financial Aid Office
  • Complete any required financial aid applications
  • Explore scholarships and transfer-specific aid opportunities
  • Consult veterans' services staff if you are eligible for military or veteran educational benefits

5. Plan for Your Transition

Prepare for the practical aspects of transferring, including:

  • Housing arrangements
  • Textbooks and course materials
  • Transportation
  • Technology and campus services
  • Orientation and registration

Ask questions and take advantage of campus resources to help ensure a successful transition.

Successful transfers begin with early planning, regular communication, and informed decision-making. Working closely with advisors and transfer professionals can help you stay on track toward achieving your educational goals.

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