Thinking of Transferring? Here’s a Guide to a Smooth Transition!

Transferring colleges can be an exciting opportunity for growth. While it may come with challenges, it’s also a chance to build a new community, explore fresh opportunities, and find a college experience that truly fits you.

Kira McCracken, a transfer student at Luther, has reassuring advice for students who are considering transferring. “Take some deep breaths, you are doing what is best for you,” she said. “Don’t feel like you are ‘failing’ because you are transferring. You are taking a huge step into making your life so much better and full of new opportunities! There is so much more to life than feeling stuck in one spot, and you are always able to continue. All it takes is one good community such as Luther to feel at home!”

Luther College welcomes transfer students every semester, and I know transferring comes with a lot of questions, from credit transfers to scholarships, housing, and making connections. To help make your transition as smooth as possible, here’s what you need to know.

How Will Your Credits Transfer?

One of the biggest concerns for transfer students is how their previous coursework will count toward their degree. It depends on your previous school and major. Every college has different policies, so this is an important question to ask early in the process.

At Luther, the admissions team works with transfer students to evaluate credits and make sure you get the most out of the work you’ve already completed. The earlier you reach out, the easier it is to create a clear graduation plan.

Trust yourself, ask for help when you need it, and take it one step at a time. You’re not starting over, you’re continuing your journey.

Leen Zaher ’26

Deadlines and Scholarships

Scholarships are a big factor when considering where to transfer. Luther can be flexible and works with each student’s timeline, and there is no application deadline for transfer students. Here’s what you should know about financial aid at Luther:

All transfer students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships, so you don’t need to submit extra applications.
Luther also offers a Phi Theta Kappa scholarship, specifically for transfer students, in an award amount of $2,500 per year.
Additional financial aid options are available, and the admissions team can help you explore them.

Where Will You Live?

If you’re moving to Decorah for the first time, housing is probably on your mind. Luther offers various on-campus housing options, including residence halls and apartment-style living. The residence life team works with transfer students to help them find the best fit.

Beyond housing, settling into student life is also important. Therefore, getting involved in clubs, activities, or even just attending the various campus events can make a huge difference in how quickly you feel at home, and it can make your college experience more fun and resourceful!

Connecting with Faculty and Planning Your Path

Professor Maren Johnson in her office with a student, looking at a laptop

Professor of Nordic Studies Maren Johnson meets with a student in her office, fall 2024.

One of the best things you can do as a transfer student is connect with faculty in your major as soon as possible. Your academic advisor will be your best resource for:

Figuring out which courses you still need to take
Mapping out your graduation timeline
Exploring internship, research, or career opportunities

At Luther, you’ll find a supportive community, helpful professors, and many resources to make your transition easier.

Change can feel overwhelming, but it’s also a chance for something new and exciting. Trust yourself, ask for help when you need it, and take it one step at a time. You’re not starting over, you’re continuing your journey.