I'm thinking about transferring to UCLA for my junior year. What's the GPA requirement like for transfer students, and do they care as much about extracurriculars as they do for freshman applicants?
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The minimum GPA requirement for transfer admission to UCLA is 3.2 for California residents and 3.4 for non-residents. However, the actual average GPA for admitted transfer students is typically much higher, often around 3.7 or above, due to UCLA's highly competitive nature. You'll need to complete at least 60 semester units or 90 quarter units of transferable college credit before enrolling at UCLA.
For transfer students, UCLA primarily focuses on your academic performance in college-level coursework rather than extracurricular activities. Your GPA in transferable courses, especially in prerequisite classes for your intended major, carries the most weight in the admissions decision. While extracurricular activities and leadership experiences can enhance your application, they're generally considered secondary factors compared to your academic achievements.
Transfer admission requirements also include completing major preparation courses and general education requirements. You should prioritize maintaining a strong GPA in these prerequisite courses, as they're often viewed as predictors of your potential success in your chosen major at UCLA. Some competitive majors may have additional GPA requirements above the university minimum, sometimes as high as 3.5 or higher.
Beyond GPA, UCLA evaluates transfer applications holistically, considering factors like your academic trajectory, the rigor of your coursework, and your preparation for your intended major. They particularly value strong performance in mathematics, writing, and critical thinking courses. Meeting with a transfer counselor at your current institution can help ensure you're taking the right courses to maximize your chances of admission.
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