SC TRAC - South Carolina Transfer and Articulation Center > Student > I Want To Take A Course During The Summer

Transfer Tip: It is important to remember that each transfer institution makes the final determination of how many and which credits transfer. Credits that transferred to a previous institution may or may not transfer or count toward a degree at another institution. The only way to know for sure is to ask your academic counselor or advisor and to get an agreement in writing.

I want to take a course during the summer.

Often, students who are currently enrolled and in good standing at one college or university take courses at another college or university.

If you are planning to take courses at a different college or university while still enrolled in your current institution, make sure you meet with your academic advisor and read the following steps before you register.

Step 1:

Find an equivalent course. Search for Equivalencies to find a course that is equivalent to the requirement you need to fulfill at your home institution.

Remember that placement testing or prerequisite courses may be required at either institution.

Step 2:

Check with an advisor or registrar to determine your institution's academic and transfer policies. Knowing the details of such policies ahead of time may save you time, money, and frustration.

Step 3:

Obtain written approval. You will most likely need to receive written approval from your home institution before scheduling courses at the transfer institution.

Step 4:

Apply for admission, if required. At some institutions, students must apply for admission before registering for classes. A call to the transfer institution’s Admissions Office or the Office of the Registrar will help you determine whether admission is required.

Step 5:

Complete the appropriate forms. Some institutions require students to complete course approval forms before registering. Check with the transfer institution and complete any forms that may be required.

Step 6:

Register for classes and pay tuition and fees. Check the transfer institution's website and catalog for registration information and payment deadlines.

Step 7:

Discuss financial aid options. Students are generally not eligible for financial aid through the transfer institution. However, a student may be eligible for financial aid through his or her home institution. For more information, contact the Financial Aid Office at your home institution.

Step 8:

Request an official transcript. To properly transfer credit to your home institution, you must request that an official transcript be sent from the transfer institution to your home institution. Remember, this process is not automatic and your course(s) will not transfer until a transcript is sent, evaluated, and credit is applied.

Step 9:

It may be helpful to contact the appropriate office at the transfer institution to determine if you will need a photo ID. You may be required to obtain a photo ID specifically for the new institution. You may also find it beneficial to contact the appropriate office at the new institution for instructions on how to obtain a parking permit.