From Public to Private: Can it Work?

November 6th, 2008

Recently Zac Bissonnette of “Wallet Pop” discussed the merits of attending a public college or public university instead of a pricier private alternative. We can’t argue with him. After all, we’ve long been proponents of choosing the right school to meet your academic needs and finances, and we’ve always reminded you that popular colleges and their rankings can be misleading.

In his post, Bissonnette also brings up the prospect of transferring to a private college after your second year, pointing out that it will save you much-needed funds while still netting you a big name on your degree. While it’s a great argument, he forgets to mention that most colleges have transfer rates that are considerably lower than their freshman acceptance rates — thanks to fewer open spots — and can be more competitive as a result.

That’s why, if you decide to go Bissonnette’s route, you should put your all into your classes. It’s also good to have a clear idea of what you want to major in — or have already made progress in your major — by the time you apply for transfer, as that will make you look like a stronger and more dedicated candidate.

For more info on transferring colleges and what it takes to make it happen, check out “Taming Transfer Turmoil.”

– Genevieve M. Blaber

Entry Filed under: Budgeting, College Admissions, College Trends, General, Schools