Quantitative Exploratory Study on Students’ Navigation Experiences with Transfer Policies in Illinois

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 1:45 pm - Gold 1
  In Roundtable Session: Transfer

Abstract

Despite the intention of transfer policies to ease transitions from community colleges to four-year institutions, students frequently struggle to navigate these policies due to institutional barriers and information gaps. This study investigates the experiences of pre- and post-transfer students in Illinois with key state transfer policies. Using paired-sample t-tests on survey data, this research compares the familiarity and navigation experiences of transfer students within each group. Results reveal consistent gaps, especially for individualized tools, suggesting persistent information constraints. Descriptive analysis further highlights the need for a more structured transfer guidance system, especially at the pre-transfer stage. Findings inform how institutions can better align policy communication to facilitate students’ transition by reducing information constraints, which helps cultivate a more transfer-receptive culture overall.

Authors

• Jeongsan Hwang, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

• Karla Velasco, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

• Gianina R Baker, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

• Lorenzo D. Baber, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign