Advice on transferring to a CSU from community college?

I'm at a community college and thinking about transferring to a CSU. What steps should I be taking now to ensure my credits transfer smoothly? Are there specific requirements I need to keep in mind for this process?

As you're considering transferring to a California State University (CSU) from a community college, there are specific steps and requirements you'd need to take to ensure your credits can be transferred. Here are some key pieces of advice:

1. Check The Articulation Agreements: California's community colleges have articulation agreements with the CSUs that specify which courses at your community college fulfill requirements at the CSU campuses. These can be found on a website called ASSIST. This is a crucial resource in ensuring the courses you're taking will count towards the degree you want to pursue.

2. Complete the Associates Degree for Transfer (ADT): If you can, aim to earn an ADT, which guarantees your admission to the CSU system in a similar major, and ensures that you are ready to start upper-division coursework. You'd enter your CSU of choice as a junior, with the intention to complete your bachelor’s degree in 60 semester units.

3. Maintain Strong Academic Performance: Focus on maintaining a GPA of 2.0 or higher; most CSU campuses require this as a minimum. However, competitive programs may require a higher GPA.

4. Get To Know The Application Process: CSU uses a common application called Cal State Apply. For fall admission, the application filing period is from October 1 to November 30, but you'd ideally start preparing even before that.

5. Be Aware of Major Specific Requirements: Some majors may have additional requirements for transfer students. Be sure to check admission and prerequisite requirements for your intended major.

6. Seek Advising: Take advantage of academic counselors at your community college who can help guide you through the transfer process. These are vital resources and their expertise can help navigate through any obstacles that may arise.

By paying careful attention to these pieces of advice and proactively managing your community college coursework, you can ensure a smoother transfer to a CSU. The earlier you begin planning, the better it is. Good luck!