How do I transfer from Los Angeles Valley Community College?

I'm considering starting at Los Angeles Valley Community College before transferring to a four-year university. What should I know about the transfer process, and how can I ensure my credits will apply toward my major at the new school?

The transfer process can have a few different steps, so here's a general overview focused on maximizing your chances of successfully transferring credits.

First, you'll want to ensure you're choosing classes at Los Angeles Valley College that are likely to transfer to four-year universities. Generally, courses that are part of an Associate of Arts/Science (AA/AS) degree designed for transfer (sometimes called a "transfer degree") usually align with general education requirements at a four-year school.

To find out whether a specific course will transfer, you'll need to check with the four-year college. California, for example, has a tool called "ASSIST" which shows how community college courses transfer to California public universities. For out-of-state or private universities, your best bet is to contact the college's Transfer Admissions or Registrar’s office. They can tell you if a course is transferrable or not, and sometimes more specifically, whether it fulfills a general education requirement or a requirement for your intended major.

It's also notable that some states and schools have "articulation agreements” that make the transfer process from community college to four-year schools smoother. These agreements often guarantee that completion of an AA/AS degree will satisfy all or almost all lower-division general education requirements at the state's public colleges. California, again, is an example of a state with these pathways, called Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) programs. Look into whether such agreements exist for your target four-year schools.

Second, to improve your chances of admission after you transfer, bear in mind that your cumulative GPA at the community college will be a significant factor in the admissions decision along with your high school transcript. Schools will also consider your involvement in extracurricular activities and leadership roles, so look for opportunities to get involved at Los Angeles Valley College.

Finally, keep track of deadlines. Different schools have different timelines for when you need to have your grades, application, and other documents submitted.

The most important thing in the whole process is communication—keep in touch with your community college advisor, potential four-year schools, and anyone else who can provide support or information along the way. They will help you navigate the specifics of your journey, as these can change based on the state, school, and specific degree program involved.