College applications for the fall 2025 term are now open, and deadlines are quickly approaching. In California, students have the option of choosing from 32 campuses between the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) systems. Additionally, there are over a hundred community colleges that offer pathways for transfer to other campuses and associate degrees, with some even providing bachelor’s degrees.
For those wondering when college applications are due, the deadline for fall 2025 admissions to all undergraduate campuses within the UC and CSU systems is December 2, 2024. While community colleges do not have a specific deadline, it is advisable to apply early. Private colleges and universities have their unique deadlines, with most falling in mid-January.
Eligibility requirements for California colleges vary. To apply to the UC system, residents must meet the A-G requirements and maintain a GPA above 3.0 in these courses during their sophomore and junior years. On the other hand, CSU applicants are required to meet similar A-G requirements and have a GPA above 2.50. However, consideration may still be given to students with a GPA above 2.0 based on supplemental factors like math and science GPAs, household income, and extracurricular activities.
When it comes to the number of applications needed, students applying to UC campuses can use a single application, as can those applying to CSU campuses. Private colleges, however, often rely on the Common Application, which includes universal essay prompts and additional requirements like essays, short-answer questions, and letters of recommendation.
The application process for UC campuses involves responding to four personal insight questions with short essays under 350 words, while the CSU application primarily considers grades in college preparatory classes. Private colleges typically require essays and letters of recommendation.
Early action and early decision options are available for students interested in applying to colleges early, with early decision being binding upon acceptance. Application fees vary, with the UC system charging $80 per campus, the CSU system charging $70 per campus, and private colleges charging between $50 and $100. Fee waivers are available for those who qualify, and the FAFSA form should be completed for federal financial aid assistance by March 2025.
In March, students can expect to hear back from colleges they applied to unless they opted for early action or early decision. These options provide students with the opportunity to receive decisions months earlier and express a particular interest in the campus. However, early decision requires students to commit to that university if accepted, unlike early action, which is generally non-binding.