Transferring from community college to a California State University

I'm at a community college, hoping to transfer to Cal State. What's the process like, and any tips for making it a smooth transition? Also curious about how units transfer and if there's anything specific I should focus on.

In California, there's an established path for community college students who want to transfer to a CSU. The process involves completing an Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT), which guarantees admission in a similar major (though not necessarily to a specific CSU campus).

Here's a general roadmap to make your transition as smooth as possible:

1. Meet with a Counselor: Start by talking to your community college's transfer counselor. They'll provide guidance on your major-specific requirements and make sure you're fulfilling the necessary prerequisites.

2. Pursue an ADT: If your major aligns, pursue an Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT). These degrees simplify the transfer process by providing a clear checklist of what you need to take before transferring.

3. Track Your Progress with the Help of ASSIST: ASSIST.org is an online student-transfer information system that lays out which community college courses are equivalent to those required at the CSUs (and UCs). This is incredibly helpful in figuring out how each of your units will transfer.

4. Get Involved: While your academic record is important, involvement in extracurriculars can also be beneficial, showcasing your abilities outside the classroom. This could be community involvement, leadership roles, clubs, or work experiences.

5. Apply through Cal State Apply: When it's time, you'll submit your transfer application through the Cal State Apply website. You generally apply a year before you plan to transfer, with the application window typically being from October 1 to December 15.

6. Send your Transcripts: Once accepted, you'll need to send in your official college transcripts before enrolling.

Remember, each CSU can have different admission requirements, so it pays to check out each campus's specific criteria. Make use of all the resources available to you at your community college, like career and academic advising. Good luck!