When I worked for a pet adoption, we always charged, not because we needed the money so much as it got rid of people who weren't that committed to animal care... if they weren't willing to spring $50 or 75 bucks, they certainly wouldn't be too pleased about vet bills. You can also ask about what they do with their current turtle (if they hav any) and why they want yours/ how they will treat it. If people get annoyed it's a good sign they won't be good owners... anyone who really wanted the turtle would be thrilled that his current owner cares enough to ask them questions
Can I ask why having him while getting a masters is an issue (i'm sorry if I'm prying too much)... it's just I too am starting a master's program next year and I know graduate school can be hectic and housing less than spaceous, but as I think has been expressed to so many turtle owners in the past... two years of cramped living ( be it in a rubbermaid container or a smaller than optimal tank) won't kill a turtle provided he has a good owner like yourself who understands his needs and will a) make his stay as comfy as possible while its not ideal and b) will get him a great turtle home when they finally do settle in.
I just absolutely love having my turtle Leo, and although I'm sure at 3 inches he's much smaller than your guy, I'd be heartbroken to leave him even to the best of homes. Maybe you can find a relative's pond or house to put his tank in if your graduate housing doesn't have a lot of room?
But, if you choose to find him a home instead, I'm glad you're willing to be so stringent in picking new parents... I'm thinking either way he'll end up in a great home... good luck.
