Transferring from College of the Desert to a CSU

I'm currently at College of the Desert and want to transfer to a CSU. What should I focus on to meet the transfer requirements and enhance my application?

Great question! When transferring from a community college like College of the Desert to a California State University (CSU) campus, there are generally a few key requirements you need to meet.

First and foremost, focus on maintaining a strong GPA. CSU campuses often require a minimum GPA of 2.0 for California residents and 2.4 for non-residents (please verify this with the specific CSU campus you’re interested in as the GPA requirement can vary).

At the CSU you are considering, do some research on the specific major you want to transfer into. Some majors have additional prerequisite courses you need to complete at the community college level before you can transfer.

For most CSUs, you need to complete a certain number of credits before you can transfer. This typically equates to about 60 semester units of CSU-transferable college credits.

Your courses should include general education and preparation for your chosen major. CSU campuses require completions of classes across several areas such as writing, math, arts and humanities, social sciences, and physical and biological sciences. It would be helpful to use Assist.org, a student-transfer information system that displays reports of how course credits earned at one California college or university can be applied when transferred to another.

In addition to academics, involving yourself in extracurricular activities like clubs, sports, or community service can contribute positively to your overall applicant profile and show the colleges you're applying to that you’re more than just your academic record.

Additional paperwork, like submitting your application through Cal State Apply, sending your College of the Desert transcripts to your chosen CSU, and possibly providing more information or interviews might be needed. It's essential to check with the admissions office for the specific CSU campus you are interested in, so you fully understand all the deadlines and unique requirements.

Remember, every CSU campus has its own set of guidelines and requirements for transfers, so you should check the details on each individual university's website or contact their admissions office. Good luck with your transfer process!