Students face significant burdens using Washington’s college transfer system
September 15, 2026
Olympia—A new report (PDF, 1.21 MB) examines the transfer process at Washington colleges through the direct experience of students. The report finds that students often must advocate for themselves and navigate informal networks, which can be a significant burden.
The report is based on a study conducted by Community College Research Initiatives (CCRI) at the University of Washington in partnership with the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC). Twenty students from different stages of the transfer process were interviewed. Some had transferred, some were hoping to transfer and others had stopped out. Students’ ability to transfer often depended on understanding complex requirements, finding the right advisor or managing financial challenges.
The report focused on the pathway from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree. In this pathway, students start their education at a community and technical college and plan to transfer to a four-year college. This route is often used by historically underserved groups, such as students of color, low-income students, first-generation students and adult learners.
Students noted that the transfer process was often assumed rather than taught. Their ability to transfer depended on more than the academic alignment between colleges. Basic needs such as childcare, transportation and jobs were also important factors.
“Washington has built important transfer pathways that have made meaningful progress, but these pathways only work if students can use them successfully,” said Isaac Kwakye, acting executive director of WSAC. “This research shows that students need clear information, timely advice, financial support and better coordination between colleges. By making those supports proactive and shared, we can build a transfer system that helps students easily move between colleges and complete their bachelor’s degree. Without these supports, transfer pathways may be difficult for many students to use.”
The report suggests several policy changes to improve the transfer system for students. It also suggests changes individual colleges can make today. These include helping students understand how to transfer credits, providing funding for advising services and removing barriers to credit mobility and program entry. These changes would help more students complete their credentials, supporting Washington's goal that 70 percent of adults earn a credential beyond high school.
Read the executive summary (PDF) and the full report (PDF). Plus, see policy recommendations (PDF) from the students interviewed.
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