I'm doing the same thing, and I've done my research. Top caliber schools - Ivy League - accept around 5% of transfer applicants. Keep in mind, Harvard and Princeton do not take transfers.
a. Yes, your HS work is reviewed. If you were a C-student in HS, but pulled up to a 3.8-4.0 GPA in a decent college, you may need 2 years to prove your commitment to work.
b. Your mid-year college grades would be reviewed. Check individual websited for application deadlines, although March 15th is standard.
c. A school like Penn takes 5%.
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6/19/08