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I recently completed a content analysis of over 300 transfer-related webpages hosted by Ontario postsecondary education institutions. Based on my research, I offer three tips for transfer websites.  

1) Define Transfer 

Online resources that explicitly define transfer can help students establish an understanding of their educational pathway options. While Ontario college and university websites do vary, my research revealed that most included transfer-related definitions and terms. For example, many websites defined transfer based on students’ specific educational backgrounds, and it was also common for institutions to define transfer by showcasing the various program pathways available to students. 

In general, I found the word transfer was used as an umbrella term for student mobility and pathways. For instance, in addition to the transfer of credit from one institution to another, online resources also defined transfer in relation to prior learning assessment recognition (PLAR) of students’ skills and knowledge gained through employment, life experiences, and other forms of learning. In addition, several transfer websites defined transfer-related terms such as equivalency, exemption, articulation agreement, advanced standing, generic credit, bridging courses, block transfer, etc.  

When considering transfer, students may encounter a variety of new terminology and transfer lingo. Presenting both foundational definitions of transfer and related terms within institutional webpages can help students navigate educational pathway options and processes. 

Online definitions and transfer-related terms including institutional and/or program specific terminology, deadlines, and fees are important information resources for those navigating transfer. Further, while not officially included in my analysis, ONTransfer.ca is a comprehensive online resource on educational pathways and student mobility which offers key transfer terms.

2) Share Transfer Stories 

Students transfer stories are powerful. Through stories, students may find inspiration or assistance on their own transfer journeys. The transfer stories shared on the websites I reviewed featured a diverse range of student backgrounds, experiences, and outcomes. For example, stories described student success using scholarships and institutional partnerships supporting transfer into programs abroad.  

While most of the online stories I reviewed celebrated student success through transfer, those that resonated the most for me also shared struggles. For instance, a memorable online story described how a student found success and tackled common misconceptions by transferring during their post-graduate experience. Another student story highlighted transfer as a pivotal opportunity to overcome challenges and get back on track to achieving educational goals. 

In addition, transfer stories highlighted the educational experiences of students who utilized transfer while also balancing school and additional responsibilities. For example, a student described transferring while raising a family, and several stories featured transfer students who achieved their educational dreams while also working full-time, being new to Canada, pursuing a career in the skilled trades, etc. Students also shared tips for a successful transfer experience. Student stories offered advice on family, friends, and the transfer process, including how to connect with peers and get involved in campus extracurriculars as a transfer student. 

Sharing students’ transfer stories is both an opportunity to inspire and celebrate the diverse experiences, challenges, and achievements of transfer students. I suggest including student stories within transfer-related web resources and print materials whenever possible.

3) Include Transfer Tools & Advising Info 

Another common element I found on many postsecondary education websites were searchable pathway exploration tools and online transfer databases. For example, a variety of online databases and exploration tools offered the ability to search for transfer specific options, including: transfer credits, equivalencies, articulation agreements, and incoming and outbound pathways. I also found tools that included prior learning search options and course outline databases that could be used in support of transfer assessment.  

The wealth of digital transfer resources and pathway exploration tools currently available online can complement transfer advising and on-campus supports for student mobility. I recommend transfer websites also include contact information through which students may connect with transfer advisors, admissions personnel, and registrar staff. While online transfer resources are helpful, personalized assessments are often required before an institution will provide an official decision regarding an individual student’s specific credit exemption, equivalency, advance standing, and/or admission. For a comprehensive listing of transfer offices and advisors by institution, check out ONtransfer.ca.

In conclusion, after reviewing more than 300 transfer-related websites, my overall opinion is that simply designed, inclusive, and easily accessible online transfer resources are important and impactful ways to support student mobility and success in postsecondary education in Ontario.  

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By J. Sparks, PhD (Higher Education) 
ONCAT Postdoctoral Research Fellow, University of Guelph