Georgian-led ONCAT-funded project aims to improve the transfer student experience

Aug. 5, 2026

Students transferring to Georgian College could soon have a clearer, more connected journey from application to registration through a new Georgian-led project funded by the Ontario Council on Articulation and Transfer (ONCAT).

While the project will focus on improving how transfer-related information moves through Georgian’s systems, its findings and best practices are intended to be shared across Ontario’s postsecondary sector to help support student mobility more broadly.

A transfer student is someone who moves from one college or university program to another and may receive credit for courses they have already completed. This can include students coming to Georgian from another institution or moving between programs within Georgian.

The project, which focuses on “Integrating Data Sources to Improve the Transfer Student Experience” will examine how transfer-related information moves through Georgian’s systems and identify ways to make it more accurate, consistent and timely.

If a student has already attended college or university, the application process can be confusing. They might not know that they can apply for advanced standing through the Ontario College Application Service (OCAS), or whether they qualify as a transfer student. Advanced standing can have real benefits for these transfer students. In some cases, it can mean accelerated completion, helping them save time and money and potentially launching them into their chosen career faster.

The project will examine how other Ontario institutions use OCAS tools, gather sector best practices and explore possible improvements with OCAS.

“Georgian is committed to finding new ways to remove barriers and create a more seamless experience for students,” said Kevin Weaver, President and CEO of Georgian College and co-chair of ONCAT’s Board of Directors. “Support from ONCAT allows our teams to explore new ideas, strengthen collaboration and continue improving how we serve learners.”

By improving how information is shared, the project will help ensure learners receive the right support at the right time, regardless of how they arrive at Georgian. It will also explore ways to better understand the experiences of transfer students and identify where additional support may be needed.

Learn more about transfers and pathways at Georgian.