Community College to UCLA Transfer

Has anyone transferred from a community college to UCLA? I'd love to know more about what the transfer process involved and any key steps I should be aware of.

It's awesome that you're considering a transfer to UCLA! UCLA strongly values the diverse perspectives brought by transfer students, and as a result, has robust transfer programs.

Firstly, there are two types of admissions for transfer students: Regular decision and the Transfer Alliance Program (TAP) for California residents. Regular decision requires 60 semester units or 90 quarter units for transfer eligibility. TAP is a collaboration between UCLA and participating California community colleges, which gives students the opportunity to enhance their ability to transfer to UCLA in select majors. To be eligible for TAP, you need to complete the honors/scholars program at your community college. Being in the TAP program will give you priority consideration for admission.

Whether you're applying through TAP or regularly, you'll want to familiarize yourself with UCLA's specific requirements. They look at overall GPA, major preparation, and the general education coursework you have completed. UCLA prioritizes students who made progress in their intended majors, so it's crucial to align your course selection with the requirements of your intended major. Some highly competitive majors like Economics, Business Economics, and Psychology have pre-major requirements that need to be completed prior to transferring. All UCs, including UCLA, require transfers to complete two English composition courses and one mathematical concepts course before transferring.

Remember, transfer admission is about more than just grades. Your Personal Insight Questions will play a significant role. These essays are your chance to tell your story and provide context for your academic achievements. Some possible topics can include - your reasons for transferring, the challenges you've overcome, your leadership skills, or how you've affected your community. Avoid common cliches and instead focus on specific experiences that have shaped you.

Lastly, keep track of deadlines. The application filing period for transfer applicants is typically from November 1-30, with decisions released in April. Also, be sure to send your final transcripts and IGETC (if completed) certification to UCLA after you've received your admission offer.

Remember, transferring is a journey and everyone's path is unique. Use resources available at your community college and consult with a transfer counselor to navigate this process. They can provide valuable guidance tailored to your specific situation. Best of luck with your journey!