How to Transfer

Planning To Transfer

The following are a list of things to consider when planning to transfer to a university:

1. See your community college counselor at least once a semester to plan your coursework carefully.

2. Develop an educational plan that includes major preparation and general education (GE) courses.

3. To choose the best school for you, first identify those aspects of academics and campus life that are most important to you. Some examples include the academic programs, the location, the size of the student body and the climate. You must also consider how far from home the campus is and the cost of the institution. If possible, consider visiting the campus; attend their open house sessions and Preview Day events. The Transfer Center offers field trips each semester to various campuses.

4. If you are unable to visit a particular campus, the Center provides a variety of university videos, catalogs and compact discs that can assist you in learning more about the colleges and universities. Check out the many resources that are available to help you make the most informed decision possible.

5. Consider your housing options. Visit our California State University housing page and University of California housing page for contact information.

6. As soon as possible, meet with a representative from the university that you plan to attend to discuss up-to-date information about majors, impacted programs, coursework you need to take and requirements that relate to your major.

7. To learn more about the specific requirements that apply to you, read the appropriate campus general catalog or explore ASSIST. The ASSIST website is the official California state-wide database listing a selection of campus-approved transfer agreements, general education requirements and information on University of California and California State University transferable courses.

8. Plan ahead for financial aid. Ask your financial aid advisor about the deadlines for grants, scholarships, loans, and other financial aid.

9. Check to make sure you know and meet ALL the deadlines.
   

How To Transfer To A California State University

1. Start completing "The Golden Four" as soon as you can. Complete one course in each of the four areas below:
   
       1.  English V01A
       2.  English V01B, Philosophy V04 or V05, or Speech V10
       3.  Speech V01, V10
       4.  Math V04, V05, V20, V21A, V21B, V21C, V24, V38, V40, V44, V46A, V46B, Psychology V04



2. Complete 56 transferable semester units with a minimum 2.0 grade point average. The grade point average for admission can be significantly higher because of the major, campus, and/or applicant pool.



3. Complete coursework in the major along with your General Education (GE) requirements. To satisfy GE, you have two choices: CSU-GE or IGETC. Talk to a counselor to determine which is the best option for you.



4. Apply on time. All California State Universities begin accepting applications in October through November 30 for the following Fall. Some California State Universities accept applications through March, or later but some close at the end of November. The sooner you apply, the better your chances for admission.



5. Inside the California State University application are a list of "impacted" majors. "Impacted" usually means you need to apply early, complete coursework in the major, and have a strong grade point average.

How To Transfer To A University of California

1. Immediately begin completing your Math and English requirements. The University of California places a high priority on students that complete transferable Math and English courses early in their academic careers. Take the Ventura College English and Math Assessment test and get started immediately.



2. The University of California gives high priority to students that complete major coursework early in their academic career. Meet with a counselor to complete an academic plan.



3. Complete 60 University of California transferable semester units with a minimum 2.4 grade point average (2.8 for non-residents) for minimum eligibility. The grade point average for admission can be significantly higher depending on major, campus and/or applicant pool. Along with Math and English and your major coursework, you are required to complete four courses, including at least two of the following areas:
   
       Physical/Biological Sciences
       Art/Humanities
       Social/Behavioral Sciences



4. Complete your General Education (GE) requirements, usually by completing the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC). IGETC may not be recommended for some majors and for some colleges (i.e. Revelle College at UC San Diego). See a counselor for details.



5. Apply on time! All Universities of California accept in Fall, which requires you to apply during the previous November. Some Universities of California accept Winter and Spring applicants, but you should check with a counselor to see which Universities of California are accepting for a particular term.

How To Transfer To An Independent Or Out-of-state College

Transferring to an independent or out-of-state college is different than applying to a University of California or California State University. The minimum requirements for transfer vary from college to college and from major to major. Essentially, transferring to independent or out-of-state college requires the following:

1. Complete a minimum amount of transferable units (usually 30).



2. Complete the appropriate English and Math requirements.



3. Complete General Education courses.



4. Complete courses for the major.



5. Earn and maintain a competitive grade point average.



6. Apply on time!

The number one reason students don't consider independent or out-of-state colleges is usually the cost. "How can I pay for a private or out-of-state education?" This is a legitimate question, but to get the answer requires a multi-step procedure:

1. Identify a college or university that you would like to attend.



2. Complete the academic requirements to gain admission.



3. Apply when the institution first begins accepting applications, not at or near the deadline. This gives you maximum consideration for institutional scholarships.



4. Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and CSS/Financial Aid profile on time.



5. Submit grade point average verification form for Cal Grant Aid (if transferring to a school in California).



6. Check private resources through the Internet (fastweb.com) or scholarship resource books.

Make sure you apply to multiple institutions in case you do get the financial help you need. Strategize your transfer options with a counselor.