Where can I find good examples of transfer essays for college applications?

It can be tough to find strong, specific examples of transfer essays since there aren’t as many published as first-year application essays. However, there are several approaches and resources that can help you get started and see what works.

One helpful strategy is to check the writing sections of university admissions sites—schools like Johns Hopkins, Stanford, and University of California often publish successful transfer essays or share tips geared toward transfer applicants. For example, some UC campuses (like Berkeley and UCLA) have posted real transfer essays on their websites or student blogs, sometimes highlighting what made the essays stand out. Harvard’s transfer admissions site also provides advice directly relevant to what transfer reviewers look for.

Another place to find quality examples is on major college admissions forums, such as College Confidential. In the Transfer Students section, you’ll occasionally find students who have shared their own essays or provided feedback to others. Just be sure to focus on recent years, as prompts and expectations can evolve.

Additionally, books aimed at transfer students, like 'The Transfer Book' by Davin Sweeney, offer annotated essay examples and break down what worked for successful applicants. These resources often illustrate how transfer essays differ from first-year essays by focusing on motivation for transferring, academic and personal growth, and specific goals at the new institution.

One example of a strong topic: a student who transferred from a community college realized that their school did not offer research opportunities in marine biology, which was their true academic passion. In their essay, they conveyed not only why they had to leave but also what they did with the resources they had, and how the target university was the best fit for their goals, backing it up with specifics about professors and programs they would like to engage with.

Try structuring your draft around these elements: why you want to transfer, what you’ve gained from your current institution, exactly what you’re seeking at the new school, and how you’ll contribute there. If you can’t find an exact essay that mirrors your story, reading a handful for inspiration and then tailoring your narrative with specific details will make your essay shine.

If you need extra help, you might also consider working with a transfer-focused essay review service that can provide direct feedback and examples. Good luck—the clarity and detail you add to your reasons for transferring will go a long way!