What are the main requirements to transfer from a community college to UCLA?

I'm studying at a community college and aiming to transfer to UCLA. What are the basic requirements and any competitive edges I can aim for? Does GPA matter a lot?

Transferring from a community college to UCLA is certainly a well-trodden path and the university provides specific guidelines for transfer applicants. Here's a brief rundown of key requirements and ways to strengthen your application.

1. Minimum Transfer Requirements: First and foremost, to be eligible, you need to have at least 60 semester (90 quarter) units of transferable coursework, maintain at least a 2.4 GPA (higher for non-California residents), and be in good standing at your current institution. You also need to have completed the seven-course pattern requirement, which includes two transferable courses in English composition, one transferable math course with intermediate algebra as prerequisite, and four transferable college courses across at least two of the following subjects: arts and humanities, social and behavioral sciences, and physical and biological sciences.

2. Major-specific Prerequisites: Each major may have specific prerequisite courses that you need to have completed to transfer. For instance, if you're planning to apply for an Engineering major, preparation for the major coursework is essential.

3. GPA: As for GPA, while there's a minimum requirement of 2.4 for California residents (2.8 for non-California residents), the average GPA of admitted transfer students is usually much higher. For the Fall 2021 transfer admissions at UCLA, the average GPA of admits was 3.92. Competition is stiff, so the higher your GPA, the better your chances are.

4. Extracurricular Activities: While attaining a solid academic performance is crucial, don't ignore the importance of extracurricular activities. Involvement in leadership roles, community service, or other related activities can provide a competitive edge. They're looking for well-rounded students who will positively contribute to their campus community.

5. Application Essays: The personal insight questions on the application are your opportunity to share more about your personal experiences and growth. Keep your essays focused, well-written, and genuine. It's not just about what you've achieved, but what you've learned and how you've developed as an individual. UCLA will be interested in understanding your academic passion and the personal experiences that have driven your educational journey.

6. IGETC Certification: While not a requirement, studies have shown that students who complete the IGETC (Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum), a series of California community college courses, prior to transferring to UCs tend to be more successful academically. Completing the IGETC can also improve your chances of admission.

Remember to work closely with your community college advisors and use the resources UCLA offers for potential transfer students. UCLA's website lists many resources and lays out requirements in detail, ensuring that you're on track with your transfer journey.

Best of luck with your transfer process!