Best community college transfer programs in California?

I'm planning to start at a community college in California with the goal of transferring to a UC or CSU. Which colleges have the best transfer programs and support systems in place?

You're definitely on the right track in seeking community colleges with strong transfer support systems. It's crucial to have good resources and advising to ensure a smooth transfer process. Here's a quick look at some California community colleges noted for their successful transfer rates and programs:

1. De Anza College: Located in Cupertino, De Anza College is well-known for its solid transfer rates to UC and CSU schools. They offer a robust transfer center with a wide variety of resources and services to support students in their transfer process.

2. Santa Monica College: SMC maintains the highest transfer rate to the UC system among all California community colleges. They have well-developed support services for transfer students, including a Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) with six UC schools.

3. Diablo Valley College: Situated in Pleasant Hill, DVC also has a great track record of transferring students to UC and CSU. They have a particularly strong relationship with UC Berkeley, historically sending more students there than most other community colleges.

4. Pasadena City College: PCC has a robust support system for transfer students and has been known for a high number of students transferring to four-year universities.

Remember, the "best" community college will ultimately depend on your specific needs and educational goals. Each of these schools also offers a wide array of academic programs, so make sure you're choosing a community college that aligns with your intended major or area of study.

Also, look into the California Community Colleges Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) program, which guarantees admission to a CSU (though not necessarily to a specific campus or major) if you meet certain requirements. This could be a great option, depending on your goals.

Lastly, as you're exploring transfer options, I'd recommend reaching out to potential community colleges' transfer centers or academic advisors. They can provide you with more specific information and help you navigate the transfer process. Good luck!