How to transfer credits from CLC to a 4-year college
You made a smart choice to attend College of Lake County (CLC) first, then transfer to a 4-year school.
The credits you earn here can count toward your bachelor's degree so you can start as a junior at your new school.
Doing this saves money—up to $30,000 or more in tuition and fees.
When you go to community college first, you're more likely to complete your bachelor’s degree, according to the Illinois Board of Higher Education. Plus, the State of Illinois guarantees admission of community college students to four-year schools. As long as you meet the school’s minimum transfer requirements, like grades and number of credit hours, you’re in.
You can use CLC transfer credits to attend a four-year college in Illinois or out of state. CLC works closely with some of the best schools to transfer to.
Explore transfer planning at CLC
Steps to transfer to a four-year school
While enrolled at College of Lake County (CLC), do the following:
- Meet with your Academic Success Advisor (ASA) each semester. Your ASA helps you plan classes and explore transfer-school options. CLC has
- 30+ guaranteed transfer admission agreements with four-year colleges and universities
- 100+ transfer guides and articulation agreements

- Get involved in student life or get a student job. Being involved increases your success. It also looks good when applying to transfer schools.
- Connect with transfer schools. Attend transfer college fairs held by CLC each semester. Talk to college reps to learn about their admission process and academic expectations. Tour these schools in person or take a virtual tour.
- Apply to your transfer schools. And apply for financial aid. Be aware of application deadlines, which may differ from school to school. Once admitted, decide where to attend based on fit and financial support.
- Follow your transfer school’s ‘next steps’ to begin class. Activate your student account. Take placement exams. Submit deposits, paperwork, immunization forms. Attend the welcome or transfer student event. Make an appointment with your transfer-school advisor to plan your classes there.
- Submit a request to graduate from CLC in the Student Portal. Do this at the start of the semester you plan to complete your CLC degree or career certificate.
Need help transferring credits?
Make an appointment with your Academic Success Advisor. Call (847) 543-2085 or use the Navigate App in the Student Portal.
Explore transfer planning at CLC
Learn more:
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