How does the transfer profile system work in California community colleges?

I'm planning to start my education at a California community college and then transfer. I've heard about transfer profiles. Can anyone explain what they are and how they might help me transfer, especially to UC schools like UC Berkeley?

Transfer profiles can be incredibly valuable for students considering a transfer from a California Community College (CCC) to a University of California (UC) School. They provide useful and comprehensive information about admitted transfer students for each UC campus and are a great source for understanding the range of academic qualifications of previously admitted students.

Every year, the UC system releases a document called the Transfer Admissions Planner or UC TAP. This contains the admission profiles of students who made the jump from a CCC to a UC institution. These profiles typically include GPAs, majors, and other relevant information about the admitted transfer students.

For example, a transfer profile may indicate the average GPA of students accepted into a specific major at UC Berkeley, or specify the mid-range of admitted GPAs. This information lets you judge your standing and competitiveness as a potential transfer student.

Additionally, profiles may provide a range of information, including completion rate of recommended preparatory courses for particular majors—again, incredibly helpful as you plan your course schedule at your community college.

Additionally, as part of the UC system, UC Berkeley participates in the Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) program, which guarantees admission to students from California Community Colleges who meet specific requirements. You'd apply for TAG about one year before you plan to transfer and complete specific courses and GPA requirements at your community college. However, note that not every UC School offers TAG and not each major is TAG-eligible.

All in all, transfer profiles can provide something of a roadmap to increase your likelihood of a successful transfer to UC schools. Good luck with your journey!