What is Horizontal Transfer and What are the Requirements?

University Transfer (Horizontal Transfer) is an important opportunity for students who want to change their department during their higher education journey. In this article, you will learn what horizontal transfer is, its types, application requirements, and how the process works in detail.

What Is Horizontal Transfer?

Horizontal transfer is a system that allows university students to transfer to another program at the same academic level or to a different university. Students can move to a new department without interrupting their current education.

This system makes it easier for students to switch to a field that better matches their interests. It can also provide the opportunity to transfer to a more prestigious university.

What Are the Types of Horizontal Transfer?

Horizontal transfer can be carried out in different ways. These types vary depending on the student’s situation and the rules set by universities.

The main types of horizontal transfer are:

• Transfer based on GPA (Grade Point Average): Evaluated according to the student’s academic performance.
• Transfer based on centralized exam score: Based on the student’s ÖSYM entrance score.
• Inter-university transfer: Allows transfer between different universities.
• Intra-university transfer: Involves changing departments within the same university.

Each type has its own application requirements and evaluation criteria.

What Are the Requirements for Horizontal Transfer?

Students who want to apply for horizontal transfer must meet certain academic and administrative requirements. These conditions may vary depending on the university.

Generally required conditions include:

• Having completed at least one semester in the current program
• Meeting a minimum GPA requirement
• Having no disciplinary record
• Availability of quotas in the target program
• Sufficient ÖSYM placement score (for centralized transfers)

These criteria may differ depending on the university and program applied for.

How Does GPA-Based Horizontal Transfer Work?

GPA-based horizontal transfer is a type of transfer based on a student’s academic success. In this method, the student’s cumulative GPA is an important factor.

The application process generally includes the following steps:

• Preparing transcript and student certificate
• Applying through the university’s application system
• Evaluation of GPA and other documents
• Placement based on available quotas

This method is especially advantageous for students with high academic performance.

What Is Centralized Score-Based Horizontal Transfer?

In this type of transfer, the student’s ÖSYM entrance score is taken into account. The student can apply if their score is equal to or higher than the base score of the target department.

In this system:

• The score from the year of university admission is used
• The base score of the new department is compared
• Eligibility is evaluated accordingly

This method is commonly preferred by students who want to change their university or department.

When Are Horizontal Transfer Applications Made?

Horizontal transfer applications are generally made during specific periods in the academic calendar. Most universities accept applications during the summer term.

Important points during the application process:

• Follow the application dates announced by universities
• Prepare all required documents completely
• Do not miss the application deadline
• Each university may have its own schedule

Therefore, official announcements should be checked regularly.

What Documents Are Required for Horizontal Transfer?

Applicants are required to submit several official documents. These documents form the basis of the evaluation process.

Commonly required documents include:

• Student certificate
• Transcript (academic record)
• Course syllabi (in some cases)
• ÖSYM exam result document
• Copy of ID card

Submitting complete documents is essential for a smooth application process.

What Should Be Considered When Applying for Horizontal Transfer?

The horizontal transfer process is not limited to submitting an application. Without proper planning, adaptation problems may arise.

Important considerations include:

• Checking course compatibility with the target department
• Researching the language of instruction and education system
• Reviewing quota availability in advance
• Planning living conditions if relocating to another city

These steps help ensure a smoother transition process.

What Are the Advantages of Horizontal Transfer?

Horizontal transfer offers students the opportunity to reshape their academic journey. When chosen correctly, it can increase academic success and motivation.

Key advantages include:

• Opportunity to switch to a more suitable field of study
• Possibility of transferring to a better university
• Increased academic satisfaction
• Education more aligned with career goals

Because of these advantages, many students consider horizontal transfer.

Horizontal transfer is an important system that allows students to shape their university education in a more suitable direction. Carefully researching the requirements and managing the application process properly plays a critical role in achieving a successful transfer.