ALMA — Alma College has been recognized as one of the top transfer-friendly schools in the nation, having been named to the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (PTK) 2025 Transfer Honor Roll, which recognizes the development and support of pathways created for the success of community college transfer students.

“We’re proud to be acknowledged by Phi Theta Kappa for the strong foundation we’ve built in supporting students who are ready to take the next step in their academic journey,” said Doug Freed, vice president for enrollment management, marketing and communications. “At Alma College, we prioritize creating a transfer-friendly experience — from substantial financial aid opportunities to individualized support — to ensure students thrive. We remain focused on understanding what transfer students need and helping them feel at home here.”

Institutions are selected based on 40 key metrics considering support and success of transfer students, analysis from the National Student Clearinghouse, and data submitted by universities through PTK Connect, a platform used by prospective transfer students to gather information and find their best fit at a four-year school. The portal uses that information to generate a transfer-friendliness rating.

A total of 251 colleges and universities made the list, including just eight from Michigan — only two of which are private. Alma College has earned a spot for the fourth year in a row.

Blaze Rybicki, a senior accounting major from Iron River, Mich., transferred to Alma College after his original institution, Finlandia University, announced its closure in 2023. Rybicki said he considered larger state colleges and universities before choosing Alma, which opened up doors that were otherwise closed.

“What happened at Finlandia was totally unexpected and made me feel nervous about my next steps. But Alma College reached out to me and erased those feelings — it made me feel wanted and positive about my future,” Rybicki said.

“I have nothing but positive things to say about this place. I didn’t lose any credits and found it easy to transfer in. The accounting program has been great and there are so many things to do outside of campus. I’m truly happy I transferred to Alma.”

Alma College offers a number of different transfer scholarships, well as different transfer admission pathways.

All degree-seeking students, including transfer students, are eligible to apply for Alma Venture grants to fund experiential learning opportunities such as internships, research, and study abroad. Alma is also the only college in Michigan with a commitment that ensures its students graduate on time.

“I’m proud of the transfer outcomes we’re seeing at these Honor Roll colleges,” said Lynn Tincher-Ladner, president/CEO of Phi Theta Kappa. “These colleges are doing more than just opening doors — they’re walking students through them. Their commitment to creating clear, supportive pathways demonstrates what’s possible when student success is truly the priority.”

For more information about transferring to Alma, visit alma.edu/admissions/apply/transfer-students.