[Sender’s Address]
No. 25, Olowora Street,
Ikeja, Lagos State.
23rd September, 2025.
The Principal,
Great Heights Secondary School,
Ikeja, Lagos State.
Dear Sir,
APPLICATION FOR A TRANSFER CERTIFICATE
I respectfully write to request the issuance of a transfer certificate to enable me to continue my education in another school. I am a student of Senior Secondary Class Two (SS2) in your esteemed institution, and I have benefitted immensely from the academic and moral guidance provided by the school.
The need for this request has become unavoidable because of my father’s recent transfer by his employer from Lagos State to Abuja. The relocation of my entire family makes it practically impossible for me to continue schooling here at Great Heights Secondary School. Since education is a continuous process that should not be interrupted, my parents and I believe that obtaining a transfer certificate will enable me to gain admission into a reputable school in Abuja where I can continue my studies without delay.
Sir, I must sincerely express my gratitude to you and all my teachers for the solid foundation I have acquired in this school. I particularly appreciate the disciplined environment, the commitment of the teachers, and the well-structured academic programme which has contributed greatly to my intellectual growth. Leaving the school is therefore not out of dissatisfaction, but rather due to circumstances beyond my control.
I kindly request that the transfer certificate should be issued as soon as possible to enable me to meet the admission deadline of the new school. In addition, I would be grateful if you could also include a testimonial highlighting my academic performance, moral conduct, and participation in extracurricular activities such as debating, quiz competitions, and sports. Such documents will give the authorities of my new school a clear picture of my background and abilities.
I assure you that I shall remain a proud ambassador of Great Heights Secondary School wherever I go, and I will continue to uphold the good values instilled in me here.
Thank you very much for your understanding and anticipated cooperation.
Yours faithfully,
(Signature)
Chinedu Okafor
What Examiners Want to See
- Correct Format – sender’s address, date, principal’s designation, salutation (“Dear Sir”), subject/title, appropriate closing (“Yours faithfully”), and full name.
- Politeness and Respect – the tone must reflect humility and courtesy when addressing a school authority.
- Clarity of Request – the purpose of the letter (transfer certificate) must be stated clearly.
- Reason for Request – examiner expects a convincing reason, e.g., family relocation or parent’s job transfer.
- Gratitude and Formality – appreciation for the school’s contribution should be included.
- Length – at least 450 words with a well-structured body.
Tips for Students
- Always state your class and identity so the principal knows who is writing.
- Give a genuine, reasonable reason for your request; avoid vague or flimsy excuses.
- Maintain respectful language throughout (avoid rude or casual expressions).
- Request politely but firmly for what you need (transfer certificate, testimonial, etc.).
- Proofread for grammar and spelling errors – they carry marks in WAEC.