The University of Washington considers you a transfer student if you completed any college courses at another institution after graduating from high school. As a transfer student, you are part of a community that brings a wide range of experiences, perspectives and strengths from previous schools and pathways into this next step in your educational journey. Your time at the UW is an opportunity to build on what you’ve already learned while exploring new academic, professional, and community opportunities.
Because transferring to a new university can also mean navigating new policies, systems, and expectations, the UW offers a variety of transfer-specific resources and communities designed to support you along the way. From Transfer Ambassadors and success coaches to advising and involvement opportunities, these resources are here to help you connect, find support and make the most of your time at the UW.
Transfer-specific spaces for students
Undergraduate Academic Affairs (UAA) manages two spaces where transfer students are the priority, with resources, events, and connection opportunities for transfer students to engage in.
Commuter & Transfer Commons (CTC)
Located in room 141 of the Husky Union Building (HUB), the CTC is dedicated to students who have transferred to the UW and students who commute to campus. Resources available at the CTC include:
- Planned events and social activities to connect with other transfer and commuter students.
- Kitchenette, including fridge, microwaves, hot water dispenser and toaster.
- Day-use lockers to store your heavy books, backpack, or helmets. Private changing room and lactation station.
- Large study area with large mobile white boards for problem solving or group work.
- Technology, board games, and puzzle rentals, as well as a Dawg Prints station for all your printing needs.
UW Transfer Center
Located in the UAA Advising Suite in Mary Gates Hall (MGH) 141, the UW Transfer Center was created as a space where transfer students can connect with each other, mentors and advisers and find support throughout their journey. Resources available at the UW Transfer Center include:
- One-on-one guidance from Transfer Student Ambassadors, who lead programs, answer questions, host drop-in hours, and can help in navigating campus life.
- Events and mentorship throughout the year to help you tap into academic support, campus services, and opportunities.
- Located right in the advising suite, it’s simple to drop in or schedule time with UAA or OMA&D advisers — so you’re never far from expert guidance.
- Transfer Center programming designed to help you feel connected, confident, and equipped to succeed.
Transfer Student Success Coaching
Meet with the Transfer Student Success Coach to develop personalized academic strategies, set goals, and build a strong foundation for success at the UW. The Transfer Student Success Coach is a fellow transfer student and can provide support in navigating the UW through a series of virtual or in-person one-on-one appointments.
Transfer Center Ambassadors
Transfer Center Ambassadors are current UW students who are excited to share their experience and support other transfer students by providing connections to resources, one-on-one mentorship and community building opportunities. Visit the UW Transfer Center in the Undergraduate Advising Suite (Mary Gates Hall 141) during Peer Drop-In Hours to connect with a Transfer Center Ambassador.
Transfer course: GEN ST 205
ACADEMIC SKILLS AND IDENTITY DEVELOPMENT FOR TRANSFER STUDENTS
GEN ST 205 is a two-credit course designed specifically for first-quarter transfer students. This course will help you explore your academic identity, plan your academic and career paths, and build valuable social networks. This course is led by an instructor and several Transfer Peer Educators, who are current transfer students who have taken the course and serve a valuable role as a mentor, support and connection to UW resources. You will get to connect with fellow transfer students and create a supportive community as you navigate your new environment.
Transfer student events and celebrations
Transfer Student Celebration Week
Transfer Student Celebration Week takes place every October on the UW campus, and is part of a wider national transfer celebration initiative. Join us as we recognize and celebrate our UW transfer students through a week of curated events, resources and opportunities to connect with fellow transfer students, staff and faculty! Whether you are looking to build community, explore campus life, or just have some fun, there’s something for everyone.
Dawg Daze
Dawg Daze takes place right before autumn quarter starts, and is a great way to discover resources, get familiar with important campus landmarks and connect with UW staff and other students. Build community with other transfer students by attending a transfer-specific event during Dawg Daze! Recurring transfer-specific events include the Transfer Success Panel and the Transfer Community Mixer, and many more are added throughout the summer. Explore all the events and find more ways to get involved!
Questions to reflect on
What’s one thing you’ve been curious about but haven’t had the chance to try yet? As a transfer student, you have access to the same clubs, events, research opportunities, and study abroad programs as first-year students. Don’t wait to explore what’s out there!
Is there a role or activity from your previous school or community that you’d like to pick back up — or build on? Your experience before the UW is an asset. If you were a peer adviser, student government representative, or club officer, there are parallel opportunities here waiting for you!
What groups, identities or interests have shaped who you are — and how do you want to explore them at the UW? The UW has a rich network of identity-based and interest-driven communities, including cultural clubs through the Kelly Ethnic Cultural Center (ECC), ASUW and hundreds of Registered Student Organizations.
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