I'm considering transferring from City College of San Francisco to UC Berkeley and want to know more about the transfer requirements. Any tips on what Berkeley looks for in transfer applicants from community colleges like CCSF?
UC Berkeley prefers applicants from California community colleges, so you're potentially in a great spot! However, keep in mind that transfer recognition is highly competitive. Here are some things you might want to bear in mind:
1. Preparatory Course: Make sure you've completed the necessary preparatory courses for your intended major. UC Berkeley outlines these on their website by different fields of study.
2. Required GPA: While the minimum GPA for transfer applicants is 2.4 (for CA residents), competitive applicants typically have a GPA of 3.5 or above. Some majors, like those in the College of Engineering, may have even higher average GPAs.
3. Units: You must complete at least 60 semester (90 quarter) units of transferable coursework by the end of the spring term before fall admission.
4. General Education: You should complete the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) before transfer. This will satisfy your lower-division GE requirements at UC Berkeley.
5. Major Selection: Not all majors at UC Berkeley are open to transfer students. Ensure that your intended major accepts transfers.
6. Personal Insight Questions: Like freshman applicants, transfer students need to respond to Personal Insight Questions. Here, you have the chance to discuss the reason behind your decision to transfer, how you've prepared for your intended major, etc.
7. Experiences: Many transfer students have found success in recounting how they've bounced back from an academic setback or how they juggle work, family obligations, etc. Remember, universities value determination and grit.
Lastly, you should look into the Assist.org tool to find out how specific classes or units transfer between CCSF and UC Berkeley. Best of luck with your endeavor!
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