The Transfer Survival Guide
You're not a freshman, but you're new. Here's the honest guide to navigating BU when you didn't start from Day 1.
Your Transfer Timeline
- Submit final transcripts
- Complete transfer credit evaluation
- Register for orientation
- Apply for housing (limited options)
- Connect with transfer student groups online
- Attend Transfer Orientation
- Meet with academic advisor
- Finalize course registration
- Get your BU ID and T pass
- Explore campus before classes
- Join 2-3 clubs at Splash
- Introduce yourself to professors
- Find your study spots
- Attend transfer student events
- Start building your routine
- Meet with career services
- Build relationships with professors
- Consider leadership roles in clubs
- Explore Boston
- Check in with academic advisor
The Honest Truth
What other guides won't tell you (and how to deal)
Friend Groups Are Already Formed
The Reality: Freshman year bonds are real. You're joining mid-story.
The Solution: Join clubs aggressively, be the one who initiates plans, and know it takes a semester to build real friendships.
Housing Options Are Limited
The Reality: As a transfer, you get last pick. Many end up in less desirable dorms or off-campus.
The Solution: Apply early, be flexible with preferences, and know that sophomore year housing is easier to navigate.
Credits May Not Transfer Perfectly
The Reality: Even if credits transfer, they might not count toward your major requirements.
The Solution: Meet with your academic advisor immediately and plan a realistic graduation timeline.
You Missed Shared Experiences
The Reality: Inside jokes from freshman year, orientation bonding, first-year dorm memories - you weren't there.
The Solution: Create new experiences rather than trying to catch up on old ones. Start fresh.
Key Resources
Transfer Credit Evaluation
Work with the registrar to understand exactly which credits transferred and how.
BU Transfer Credits →Transfer Student Association
Connect with other transfers who get what you're going through.
Find them at Splash or search BU Engage
You've Got This
Transfers bring perspective, maturity, and drive. Use it.