Transferring to MSU: Find Your Place, Your People and Your Path

Transferring universities can save you money, accelerate your education and improve your college experience — that’s why 1 in 8 undergrad students switch schools every year. No matter what you’re looking for, Minnesota State University, Mankato provides a welcoming atmosphere and resources that can make the transfer process smoother than you’d ever imagine. 

Hear about the journey from three transfer students, each with their own path, and get the tools that helped them find a home at MSU. 

You Deserve a Fit that Feels Like Home

Many students start their journey at a community college, or change schools in search of a different atmosphere. Sometimes, it just takes a little firsthand experience to know if someplace is right for you.  Take it from Jaida Gehring, who transferred three times before finding the right fit.  “I felt like people would see me as weak. But I realized it’s actually the brave thing to do to make a college experience and a future that you like.” —Jaida Gehring If you’re feeling like there might be a school out there that suits you better, learning a little more about our transfer process is a great place to start. 

Transferring to MSU 

Support for a Smooth Transition

MSU sees transfer students from all walks of life. Whether you’re looking for a new major, more flexible learning methods or even moving from a different country, there’s no wrong reason to explore a new school. Wherever you come from, you’re probably looking for one thing: a smooth transition. 

Beth Crandall’s journey can help ease worries you might have about the transfer process. Navigating a career change and a pandemic, she came to MSU with a more complex transcript than most. 

“I had credits from 2015. I had credits from 2019 through 2020. So when I restarted in 2023, I had all these disjointed starts and stops to school. I worked with an advisor that I received here, and within 24 hours, the main problem was fully resolved.” —Beth Crandall

MSU’s transfer specialists, advisors and other resources can work quickly to see how many credits you’ll start with, resolve issues and guide you through any other requirements. 

Transfer Requirements Transfer Pathways

A New Start Doesn’t Mean Starting Over

MSU offers plenty of programs focused on making transfer students feel welcome. Because you’re not just going to a new school — you’re building a new community. From study groups centered around your major to events that encourage transfer students to share their experiences, support comes from many places and will help you feel connected quickly. 

“All the floor dinners and hangouts, they create this comradery. When I finally had a strong social circle, that’s when I felt like… ‘I’m home.’” —Youssef Elsherbiny   [

Transfer FAQs

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From the moment you consider transferring to graduation day, MSU sets transfer students up for success. 

“When you come here, you get to make it what you want it to be. The environment is here for you. The people are here for you. You just have to show up.” —Beth Crandall

Ready to explore your next step? Learn more or set up a meeting with a Transfer Specialist today. 

Transfer Guide Talk to a Transfer Specialist