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College Essentials

TYPES OF FOUR-YEAR COLLEGES

  1. California State University System
    • Largest public university system in the country
    • Takes in pride in the quality of its teaching
    • Smaller class size than other public universities
    • Admission requires at least a 2.0 GPA
    • Admission application does not include essay writing
    • SAT/ACT test scores not required for admission if your GPA is at least 3.0
      • Impacted programs can require SAT/ACT
    • CSU campuses have a local service area; higher likelihood of acceptance to your local CSU
    • Apply through Cal State Apply
  2. University of California System
    • World renowned research universities
    • Classes often taught in large lecture halls by professors who are conducting own research
    • Admission requires at least a 3.0 GPA
    • Admission application requires personal insight questions (PIQs)
      • Allows you to express yourself in other ways than GPA and test scores
    • Mission is to serve top 12.5% of graduating class
    • Apply through UC Application
  3. Private Institutions (in and out of state)
    • Can generally offer the most financial aid
    • Great option for undocumented/DACA applicants because they can offer larger financial aid packages
    • May offer smaller classes
    • Each college has its own admission process and deadline
  4. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)