Exploring Transfer Policies in Higher Education and Their Impact on Transfer Student Success and Degree Completion
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| Title: | Exploring Transfer Policies in Higher Education and Their Impact on Transfer Student Success and Degree Completion |
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| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Jennifer Strobel |
| Source: | Online Submission. 2026Ed.D. Scholarly Research Project, Bradley University. |
| Peer Reviewed: | N |
| Page Count: | 127 |
| Publication Date: | 2026 |
| Document Type: | Reports - Research Tests/Questionnaires |
| Education Level: | Higher Education Postsecondary Education |
| Descriptors: | Higher Education, College Transfer Students, Student Mobility, Transfer Policy, Educational Policy, Educational Attainment, Student Experience, Barriers, School Policy, Educational Practices, Transfer Programs, College Credits |
| Abstract: | This study examines the predominant challenges faced by transfer students in higher education and explores strategies for improving institutional transfer practices to better support student mobility and academic success. As transfer pathways become an increasingly common route toward degree completion, students frequently encounter barriers that complicate the transition between institutions. Using a qualitative case study approach, this research investigates the experiences of transfer students within a higher education institution to better understand the structural and procedural barriers affecting their transition. Data was collected through an individual case study and a review of transfer policies and support structures. This approach allowed for an in-depth examination of how institutional processes influence the experiences and outcomes of transfer students. Findings reveal that transfer students frequently encounter three primary challenges: inconsistent academic advising, financial complications related to transferring, and unclear or restrictive transfer credit articulation agreements. Participants reported difficulty accessing timely and specialized advising to help them navigate degree requirements, credit evaluations, and academic planning after transferring. Additionally, many students experienced unexpected financial burdens due to changes in tuition structures, loss of scholarships or financial aid eligibility, and extended time to degree completion. Compounding these issues, unclear credit articulation agreements between institutions often resulted in previously completed coursework not being fully recognized, forcing students to repeat courses. The results of this study suggest that institutions can better support transfer students by implementing more proactive and specialized academic advising models, addressing financial barriers through clearer financial aid guidance and support, and strengthening transfer credit articulation agreements between institutions. Improving these areas can reduce uncertainty, minimize credit loss, and promote more equitable and efficient pathways for students transferring between higher education institutions. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2026 |
| Accession Number: | ED680044 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | This study examines the predominant challenges faced by transfer students in higher education and explores strategies for improving institutional transfer practices to better support student mobility and academic success. As transfer pathways become an increasingly common route toward degree completion, students frequently encounter barriers that complicate the transition between institutions. Using a qualitative case study approach, this research investigates the experiences of transfer students within a higher education institution to better understand the structural and procedural barriers affecting their transition. Data was collected through an individual case study and a review of transfer policies and support structures. This approach allowed for an in-depth examination of how institutional processes influence the experiences and outcomes of transfer students. Findings reveal that transfer students frequently encounter three primary challenges: inconsistent academic advising, financial complications related to transferring, and unclear or restrictive transfer credit articulation agreements. Participants reported difficulty accessing timely and specialized advising to help them navigate degree requirements, credit evaluations, and academic planning after transferring. Additionally, many students experienced unexpected financial burdens due to changes in tuition structures, loss of scholarships or financial aid eligibility, and extended time to degree completion. Compounding these issues, unclear credit articulation agreements between institutions often resulted in previously completed coursework not being fully recognized, forcing students to repeat courses. The results of this study suggest that institutions can better support transfer students by implementing more proactive and specialized academic advising models, addressing financial barriers through clearer financial aid guidance and support, and strengthening transfer credit articulation agreements between institutions. Improving these areas can reduce uncertainty, minimize credit loss, and promote more equitable and efficient pathways for students transferring between higher education institutions. |
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