If you are a SUNY Community College Student, you’re already in the right place! As part of the SUNY family, you have access to resources, tools, and policies designed to help you succeed. Completing your associate degree isn’t just a milestone—it’s a game-changer. It guarantees that you’ve met all SUNY General Education requirements, allows you to start at junior-level standing, and prepares you to thrive at a four-year campus. Even better, you’ll have support and guidance both at your SUNY community college and at your future SUNY transfer school.
Below, you’ll find the steps we recommend to help you finish your associate degree and get the added support you need to take the next big step toward your bachelor’s.
Explore Academic Options and Programs
Begin exploring your options as early as possible. Students who identify their intended major or general area of interest sooner tend to complete their degrees more efficiently and are less likely to need additional coursework after transferring.
Explore SUNY Transfer Paths
SUNY Transfer Paths can help you understand how your courses align with specific degree programs. They’re a great way to explore how your interests connect to your associate degree and future studies.
Connect with an Advisor and Create an Academic Plan
Connecting with an advisor or mentor early helps you build a transfer-friendly academic plan. They’ll guide you through SUNY Transfer Paths so your associate degree courses count toward your bachelor’s degree—keeping you on track to graduate within four years.
Explore SUNY Campuses
SUNY community colleges have strong connections with SUNY four-year campuses. Ask your advisor or mentor about programs, events, and opportunities to engage with other campuses. Building those connections early can make your transfer experience smoother and more informed.
Apply to Your Chosen SUNY Campus
Check application deadlines for your chosen campus and send official transcripts from all previously attended schools.
Complete or Renew Your FAFSA
Submit the FAFSA as soon as it's available and send your Student Aid Report (SAR) to all campuses you've applied to. You can sebd it to multiple campuses at no added cost.
Meet with Representatives at Your Intended Campus
Once you apply, reach out to the admissions office or the main contact at your intended campus to learn about opportunities to connect and explore campus offerings.
Review Your Transfer Credit Guidance with Your Advisor
After acceptance, campuses provide preliminary credit evaluations or tools. Review them with your advisor. If a course doesn’t transfer you’ll receive the reason and have an option to appeal or seek further guidance.
Make it Official
Once you're ready, follow your acceptance instructions to commit to your campus. Submit any deposits if required—deadlines and amounts may vary.
Register for Courses and Attend Orientation
Course registration and orientation happen on different timelines depending on your start term. Check your welcome materials for details. If orientation is offered—go! It’s a great way to meet people and get campus-ready. If not, support is still available to help you register and settle in.
Send Final Transcripts
After finishing your last term at your associate degree campus, send updated transcripts with final grades to your new campus. Check your registrar’s website for quick and easy instructions.