Quick Answer: To transfer schools in the Philippines, you need your child's SF9 (Report Card), SF10 (Permanent Record), Certificate of Good Moral Character, and PSA Birth Certificate. The originating school sends the SF10 directly to the receiving school. Without these documents, your child can be "temporarily enrolled" while records are being processed.
Introduction
Transferring schools is one of the most common yet confusing processes parents face in the Philippine education system. Whether you are relocating to a different city, switching from public to private (or vice versa), or simply looking for a better fit for your child, understanding the proper procedure ensures a smooth transition with no gaps in your child's academic record.
This guide walks you through every step of the school transfer process, from requesting documents at the old school to completing enrollment at the new one. We cover DepEd's official policies on school forms, temporary enrollment provisions, and practical tips to avoid the most common pitfalls that delay transfers.
Understanding the Key School Forms
Before starting the transfer process, you need to know the two most important school documents:
SF9 — Learner's Progress Report Card (Formerly Form 138)
The SF9 is your child's quarterly academic and attendance record. It is prepared by the class adviser and given to parents at the end of each school year. This is the document you physically carry to the new school.
The SF9 contains:
- Quarterly grades for all subjects
- Attendance record
- Behavioral ratings
- Learner Reference Number (LRN)
- Class adviser's and principal's signatures
SF10 — Learner's Permanent Academic Record (Formerly Form 137)
The SF10 is the official permanent record of your child's entire academic history. Unlike the SF9, parents do not carry this document—it is sent directly by the originating school to the receiving school, either physically or through the DepEd Learner Information System (LIS).
The SF10 contains:
- Complete academic grades from Kindergarten onward
- Personal information and eligibility data
- School transfer history
Step-by-Step Transfer Process
Step 1: Notify the Current School
Inform your child's current school (the originating school) of your intent to transfer. Do this as early as possible, ideally before the school year ends. Most schools require a written notice or a filled-out transfer request form.
Step 2: Secure the SF9 (Report Card)
Request the release of your child's SF9 with complete grades. This is typically given at the end of the school year. Make sure it includes:
- Complete quarterly grades
- The learner's LRN
- Signature of the class adviser and school principal
- The school's official dry seal or stamp
Step 3: Request the Transfer of SF10
Submit a written request to the originating school for the transfer of your child's SF10 to the receiving school. Under DepEd policy:
- The originating school creates a certified true copy of the SF10 for their records
- The original SF10 is sent directly to the receiving school
- The standard turnaround time is 30 days from the date of request
- The school may also send records via the LIS (Learner Information System)
Important: Schools are not allowed to withhold the SF10 due to unpaid fees. Under DepEd guidelines and the Enhanced Basic Education Act, no school can refuse to release student records as a means of collecting unpaid tuition or other charges.
Step 4: Obtain a Certificate of Good Moral Character
Most receiving schools, especially private ones, require a Certificate of Good Moral Character (also called Certificate of Character Rating). Request this from:
- The school's guidance office, or
- The class adviser or principal
Step 5: Gather Additional Documents
Prepare the following additional documents:
- PSA Birth Certificate (original or certified true copy)
- 2x2 ID photos (2-4 pieces, recent, colored)
- Certificate of Enrollment or Transfer Certificate (if required by the receiving school)
- Medical/Health Certificate (some schools require this)
- Clearance from the originating school (certifying no outstanding obligations)
Step 6: Apply to the Receiving School
Submit all gathered documents to the new school and complete their enrollment process. This may include:
- Filling out the school's application/enrollment form
- Taking an entrance exam or assessment
- Attending an interview (for some private schools)
- Paying application and enrollment fees
Step 7: Confirm SF10 Transfer
Follow up with both schools to confirm the SF10 has been sent and received. Until the SF10 arrives, your child is considered a temporarily enrolled learner.
Understanding Temporary Enrollment
DepEd recognizes that document transfers take time. To prevent children from missing school, the receiving school can accept your child as a temporarily enrolled learner while waiting for the SF10.
However, there are important limitations:
- Temporarily enrolled learners cannot advance to a higher grade level without complete records
- They are not eligible for academic honors during the temporary period
- The receiving school cannot release official documents (diplomas, SF9, SF10) for temporarily enrolled students
This is why it is critical to start the transfer process early and follow up regularly.
Transferring Between Public and Private Schools
Public to Private
The process is the same as outlined above. Private schools may have additional requirements such as entrance exams and interviews. Ensure you get your child's SF9 and initiate the SF10 transfer before the enrollment deadline.
Private to Public
Transferring from a private school to a public school follows the same DepEd process. Public schools cannot refuse enrollment based on the originating school type. The child may be temporarily enrolled while records are being transferred.
Across Regions
If you are moving to a different region (e.g., from Manila to Cebu City), the SF10 transfer may take longer. Start the process at least 60 days before the enrollment deadline. You can also request that the originating school process the transfer through the DepEd LIS for faster handling.
Special Cases
Transferring Mid-Year
Mid-year transfers are possible but require coordination. The originating school must provide:
- SF9 with grades for completed quarters
- A certification of the learner's progress to date
- The receiving school will determine grade placement based on available records
Transferees from Schools Abroad
Filipino students returning from abroad need:
- Transcript of Records or equivalent from the foreign school
- Philippine equivalency certification from DepEd
- PSA Birth Certificate
- The student may need to take a Philippine Educational Placement Test (PEPT) to determine the correct grade level placement
Tips for a Hassle-Free Transfer
- Start early. Begin the process at least 2-3 months before the target enrollment date.
- Get everything in writing. Request written acknowledgment when you file for SF10 transfer.
- Know your rights. Schools cannot withhold records due to unpaid fees.
- Keep copies. Photocopy every document before submitting originals.
- Use the LRN. Your child's 12-digit Learner Reference Number is the key identifier across all DepEd systems. Keep it accessible.
- Follow up proactively. Do not assume the SF10 has been sent. Call or visit both schools to confirm.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to transfer school records?
The standard DepEd turnaround time is 30 days from the date the originating school receives the transfer request. However, it can take longer during peak enrollment periods.
Can a school refuse to release my child's records?
No. Under DepEd policy and the Enhanced Basic Education Act, schools are prohibited from withholding student records due to unpaid fees or other financial obligations. If a school refuses, you can file a complaint with the DepEd Division Office.
What is the difference between SF9 and SF10?
The SF9 (formerly Form 138) is the Report Card showing quarterly grades—you carry this yourself. The SF10 (formerly Form 137) is the Permanent Academic Record sent directly between schools.
Can my child attend the new school while waiting for the SF10?
Yes. Your child can be temporarily enrolled at the receiving school. However, they cannot be promoted or receive honors until the SF10 is received.
Do I need to transfer the LRN?
No. The Learner Reference Number (LRN) stays with your child permanently. The receiving school will use the same LRN to locate your child's records in the DepEd Learner Information System.
Is there a fee for transferring records?
Public schools do not charge for the transfer of SF9 and SF10. Private schools may charge a minimal document processing fee, but they cannot withhold records for non-payment of tuition.
Can I transfer my child to a school in another region?
Yes. The process is the same, but allow extra time (60+ days) for document transfer. Cross-region transfers through the LIS can expedite the process.
What if the originating school has closed?
If the school has permanently closed, contact the DepEd Division Office where the school was located. They maintain copies of school records for closed institutions.
Start Your School Search Today
Looking for the right school for your child's fresh start? Explore schools across the Philippines on SchoolFinderPH. Search by location — Quezon City, Makati, Taguig, or anywhere in the country — and compare your options before making the switch.