Spring vs Fall Transfer: What's my better option?

Transfer Students
1

I am here first to see my chances acceptance to my choice schools, but also to see which application slot is a better fit (and odds).

I am a non-traditional student in the fact that I received my GED at 19. Not because I was a dropout, but because of homeschooling. Had to have a certificate for college admittance. However, my lack of a high school record limted my freshman options. Long story short, I went to a adult studies program at a small liberal arts school and due to doubling up will be receiving my associates degree this Dec. after less than two years. I now want to transfer to one of my dream schools to get my bachelors. The reasoning for my gap year is mainly due to the fact I was the caregiver to an elderly and very ill family member my senior year of HS onward.

My top choices are NYU, Fordham, and Emory. I am also considering Wake Forrest, and as back ups Berry, Mercer, etc.

Stats -
High school GPA: N/A, but received GED with honors. Scored in the top 10%.

College GPA: 3.99
Honors: Dean and President’s lists.
Test scores: None, but none of the schools I am applying to require them with the amount of credits I have.
ECs: multiple volunteer work, job with notable nonprofit, real estate licensed.

Recs: I am blessed to be close to many of my professors who have all offered to write me letters. I have narrowed that down to one prof in my major of choice, another whose degree is in my area of study, and lastly the Dean who taught me in a class and is a graduate of one of my top choices.

Here’s my predicament… I have the option to transfer for Spring 2016 and can easily make that mark. However, I am considering waiting for Fall 2016 transfer. My reasoning is because of a short-term promotion at the nonprofit I work for and other opportunities for financial security before my next two years. Also, is one time easier to get in than another?

My concern is that taking a gap year after my delayed start will make it seem like I’m unfocused or undedicated. Which could not be further from the truth. I want to make the right decisions now because my end goal is graduate school, ultimately a PhD. I am very serious about my education and don’t want to mess this up.

I’m sorry for being so long winded. Any comments or advice would be a great help.

2

I think your academic record shows how serious you are about your education. Taking some time off is perfectly reasonable if it helps you finance your education the way you want to. The real issue which will determine when you transfer is how many credits maximum can be transferred to your new university. If there is a limit, there is no reason to take more courses after your AA is complete. You might as well take a semester off and apply for the fall if that gives you more financial stability.

My guess is that you will have about the same chance in either Spring or Fall terms.

3

Spring is less competitive but it has it disadvantages