Plan your transfer as early as possible. As soon as you know that you want to transfer schools, contact the school of your choice to obtain its admission requirements and transfer policies. Many community colleges have transfer agreements, also known as articulation agreements, with private schools. If so, those guidelines can assist you in planning the best course of study to enable a future transfer. According to a 2010 USA Today article, private schools are increasingly recruiting future students from those attending community colleges in an attempt to diversify their enrollment and attract students who would otherwise transfer to public universities.
Meet with an adviser at your community college to discuss your future transfer. Because many community college students eventually transfer, advisers are often familiar with the process and can point you in the right direction, for example in terms of the appropriate course credit that will transfer to the private school of your choice.
Familiarize yourself with your desired college. Obtain a copy of the school's admission guidelines.Meet with an adviser at the college, bringing with you a copy of your current transcript to verify that you are on the right track toward admission, and confirm the information you received at your community college about transferring to the new school.
Maintain the highest possible grade point average; this is likely to be your best chance in proving your ability to succeed at the new school and the strongest factor in being accepted as a transfer. Also a high grade point average at a community college can demonstrate growth from a weaker high school record.
Obtain letters of recommendation from several professors. Choose instructors of classes in which you did particularly well or with whom you developed a good working relationship, putting a focus on professors in areas of your desired major, if you have selected one.
Participate in extracurricular activities, particularly those related to your desired major. Doing so shows involvement in the campus or community, a willingness to go beyond the classroom and, possibly, a dedication to your future career.
Line up your financial aid early. Private college and universities have significantly higher tuition than public schools and especially community colleges. Ensure that you're able to pay for the increased tuition at your private college, through a combination of personal funds, work-study, students loans or grants, or scholarships. Ask about aid opportunities at the desired schools' financial aid offices.
Apply early. Complete and submit all paperwork to the private college six to nine months in advance of your anticipated transfer date. Make note of all admission deadlines. Missed dates could delay your admission and interrupt your education.