How does transferring from a community college to ASU work?

I'm planning on going to a community college first to save money, then transferring to Arizona State University. What do I need to know about this process? Are there specific classes I should take to make transferring easier?

Transferring from a community college to Arizona State University (ASU) is a common path for many students and ASU has systems in place to make this transition smooth. Given your plan, here are the steps you might consider:

1. Plan Your Coursework: ASU has established Transfer Admission Guides (TAGs) for all its majors. TAGs outline the recommended course sequence you should follow at your community college in order to prepare for your major at ASU. Remember, the goal is to choose classes that will not only transfer but also satisfy your major's requirements at ASU.

2. Maintain a Solid GPA: While being admitted to ASU as a transfer student will depend on the competitiveness of your desired program, keep in mind that many programs require a minimum GPA of 2.5 in all transferable coursework.

3. Credentials Evaluation: When you are ready to apply to ASU, you will need to have your community college send your official transcripts to ASU for evaluation. ASU has a great transfer credit guide on their website, where you can check to see how courses you've taken might transfer.

4. Application Review: Apart from GPA, ASU Admissions will consider course rigor, completion of core high school subjects, English proficiency (if English is not your first language), and your need for an on-campus experience (if you are applying to programs in high-demand).

5. Financial Aid: Don't forget about financial aid. Many scholarships and grants are available to transfer students, so remember to fill out FAFSA and look for additional opportunities once you get your acceptance.

6. Advising: Speak with your community college advisor as early and often as possible. Many community colleges in Arizona partner with ASU and offer specific transfer programs that include advising from both the community college and ASU to ensure you are on the right track. They can help you make sure you meet all the requirements and deadlines.

Remember, the earlier you start planning, the better. This would ensure a smooth transition and that you're on track with your desired major's requirements. Best of luck!