Choosing the Right College/College Application

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Question
I'm currently a college freshman and wish to go to a different college. I do not, however, want to transfer any of my credits, only my financial aid (I simply wish to wipe the slate clean and start over with my collegiate career). My question is if this is possible; can I just apply as a first-year student to the college of my choice?

Answer
Ben,

The answer to your question may differ from college to college but most colleges will want to know if you have taken college credit. Technically if you don't care about the credit you wouldn't need to report it but that might be construed as not being truthful on your new college application if they ask the question. I assume that you have not done well and that is why you don't care about the credit. Generally I would just recommend that you be honest about your past experience, tell them what you learned from the experience and go from there.

Financial aid generally goes with the college although federal grants and loans will transfer to yoru new institution. Once you have determined where you wish to go you will need to go through the financial aid process again.

Although this can be difficult being honest is the best policy.

Good luck.

Choosing the Right College

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Todd Johnson

Expertise

I can help students and families understand the whole college admissions process from evaluating what a student wants from a college to finding the right college. This includes advising on the college application, the essay, recommendations and visiting colleges. I also can help families understand college financial aid. I have particular expertise in helping students who are applying to BS/MD programs.

Experience

I am a lawyer as well as a college admission consultant and have spent more than 11 years consulting with students and families on how to find the right college for each student. I work with students throughout the US as well as international students who wish to attend college in the US. I have helped hundreds of students find the best college for each student's needs. I have particular expertise helping students become the most competitive candidate for BS/MD programs.

Organizations
Independent Educational Consultants Association, Professional Member; Higher Education Consultants Association; National Association for College Admission Counseling; Minnesota Association for College Admission Counseling

Publications
Todd is the author of "BS/MD Programs-The Complete Guide: Getting into Medical School from High School." College Admissions Counseling’s blog content has been featured by the Chicago Sun Times, Fox News, Reuters and other major websites. It is syndicated by Blogburst.

Education/Credentials
BA St. Olaf College; JD Washington University in St. Louis

Awards and Honors
I am an instructor for the University of California Irvine extension.

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