Washington has set a goal for 70% of adults ages 25 to 44 to hold a postsecondary credential. Transferring from 2-year to 4-year institutions is one of the most important pathways to reaching it, especially for students of color and low-income, first-generation, and adult learners. In partnership with the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC), CCRI interviewed 20 students across the state who had transferred, were still working toward transfer, or had stopped out. Their stories show that successful transfer depends on more than moving credits. Students need clear information, timely advising, financial support, and a way back when plans pause. Learn more in the publications below.
Navigating Transfer in Washington: Student Experiences, Barriers, and Supports
July 2026 – Full Report
Drawing on interviews with 20 Washington students, this report examines the barriers and supports that shape transfer from two- to four-year institutions, with recommendations for institutions and state policy.
Executive Summary
July 2026
This summary highlights the report鈥檚 five key findings, what students said two- and four-year institutions should do, and policy considerations for building a more navigable transfer system.
What Transfer Students Say Two-Year and Four-Year Institutions Should Do
July 2026 – Institutional Brief
Written for college and university leaders, this two-page brief shares students鈥� recommendations for two- and four-year institutions, paired with transfer students鈥� own words.
What Policy Can Do for Transfer Students
July 2026 – Policy Brief
This one-page brief pairs six transfer challenges students described with potential state policy solutions, from funding advising as core infrastructure to building statewide re-entry support.