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Parents & Families

Transfer Students

Welcome. We’re glad you’re here!

Transfer students and families are an important part of the University of Washington community.

As the parent or family member of a transfer student, there’s a lot you’ve already learned about what it means to support your student in their education journey. At the UW, however, we have our own way of doing things. We want to make sure you have all the tools and information you need to help your student’s transition be as seamless and successful as possible.

A good place to start: the UW Parent & Family Guide. Inside, you’ll find a comprehensive roundup of resources on everything from academics to housing to student life.

Connecting to a new community

Shortly after your student confirms their acceptance, they will be invited via email to the UW Transfer Student Yammer Group, to a private chat community. In addition, Transfer Advising & Orientation is an important way for your student to connect with their new campus community. At A&O, transfer students work with peers, faculty, staff and administrators to tap into resources, build community and register for courses.

Learn more

UW staff is here to help

Our faculty and staff are committed to the success of transfer students. The Transfer Student Engagement Council was formed in 2015 as a way to provide transfer students with resources across departments.

About the Council

Common transfer student questions

Common transfer student questions

Shortly after your student confirms their acceptance, they will be invited via email to the UW Transfer Student Yammer Group, to a private chat community managed by UW-IT. Transfer Ambassadors are also available to help support new Huskies, and the Commuter and Transfer Commons (CTC) is a great place to meet fellow transfers.

All transfer students are considered for the same types and amounts of aid as other UW students when they complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) before Jan. 15. The UW also offers several scholarships specifically for transfer students.

Entering a top-choice major can be a challenge for transfer students. A number of majors are capacity-constrained, and it is difficult to know about all of the different major options at a place as complex as the UW. The Exploring Major Alternatives tool can help your student consider all the options and find a course of study that fits their interests.

All UW students have the choice to live on campus — in university-owned residence halls, apartments or family housing — or off campus in a property not owned by the university. Fraternities and sororities are considered off-campus housing. There are a variety of options for your student to choose from with different price points and proximity to campus.

The UW has a range of resources to help students build their professional network and explore career options. Two places to start: the UW Husky Landing tool and the Career & Internship Center. Summer research programs are another way for undergraduate students to try something new or take their academic interests to the next level.

Did you know?

Transfer students have their own space on our Seattle campus. The Commuter and Transfer Commons (CTC) offers day-use lockers, kitchenette and microwave, phone chargers, rentable laptops and more.