North Wake News

The University of North Carolina System has introduced new regulations to simplify the transfer process for undergraduate students. This initiative aims to reduce the waiting period for transcript reviews, a historically lengthy procedure due to the involvement of multiple departments.

Under the new rule, students transferring with three or fewer transcripts can expect an evaluation within 15 business days. Those submitting four or more transcripts, including international ones, will receive their evaluations in 30 business days. The regulation is based on best practices from within the UNC System.

Additionally, the UNC System's 1,400 transfer guides will continue to be updated annually by North Carolina's 16 public universities and remain accessible on College for North Carolina’s website.

“Transfer students bring extraordinary talent to our universities and to our state,” stated UNC System President Peter Hans. “We should never allow bureaucratic hurdles to stand between ambitious students and the opportunities they’ve earned.”

A national study indicated that while 80% of community college students aim for a bachelor’s degree, only one-third manage to transfer successfully to a four-year institution. In fall 2024, over 17,000 students transferred into UNC System institutions, with more than half coming from North Carolina Community Colleges. Among these transfers, nearly 40% were underrepresented minorities and just over 30% were adult learners.

Eric Fotheringham, assistant vice president for transfer student success and partnerships at the UNC System, emphasized that transfer solutions are a priority. He noted that “transfer students are often adults with careers, families, or military backgrounds.” He added that a complex transfer process can deter these individuals from pursuing their degrees.

The policy is set for full implementation by spring 2026 and aims to provide prospective students with accurate information about credit transfers before classes begin. This measure seeks to prevent wasted resources and ensure timely degree completion while minimizing student debt post-graduation.