College Readiness Hub

The University of California has 9 undergraduate campuses across the state. Each one has unique programs, culture, and opportunities. Explore the basics here, then visit the official UC site for details:

UC Campuses & Locations

TBA

Overview

• What PIQs are (4 of 8 prompts, max 350 words)
• PIQs are not essays – they're short responses meant to highlight your story, values, and growths
• Link to the official UC site for rules - How to Answer Personal Insight Questions Video

PIQ Questions 

1. Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time.
2. Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.
3. What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?
4. Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced. 
5. Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement? 
6. Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.
7. What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?
8. Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?

Brainstorming Worksheet

Please use this worksheet to help guide your brainstorming ideas. This will help pick your best 4 prompts and prepare for assistance. 

UC_PIQ_Worksheet_Guide.docx 

General Advice for PIQ

• Review the prompt and answer it directly, do not use part of your personal statement or sections from other applications without modifying it to answer the prompt first 
• Show don't tell, use examples and stories that highlight your qualities instead of just talking about your qualities .
  • For example: Rather than saying that you have good leadership skills, talk about how you ran a school club, lead your sports team, etc. 
• Quality over quantity, you don't have to cover everything you've done like on a resume, instead pick 2-3 strong experiences to write about on your PIQ response and expand on them.
• Be authentic, admission readers want to hear your genuine experiences, not what you think they want to hear. 

How to Pick your Questions 

You will have 8 questions to choose from and can only respond to 4 of them, here are some strategies to picking which questions: 

1. Play to your strengths. 
   1. Think about which prompts let you highlight your unique experiences, strengths, or perspectives.
2. Avoid overlapping content.
   1. Pick prompts that show different sides of you rather than repeating the same themes.
3. Does each topic relate to one of your activities.
   1. If so, Great! However if it doesn't your answer might be too vague and might need some reworking or you should consider another prompt that you can link with something you have done.

Additional Tips 

• Try to choose prompts that complement each other so application reviewers can get a holistic view of you 
• Highlight experiences that tie into your future goals (ie. Volunteering, sports, extracurriculars, etc.) 
• Get lots of feedback from others but remember that it is your application and that you don't have to include every piece of feedback if you don't agree with it 
• Bonus points if you can tie your responses to one of the UC Values. 

Web Resources

What are BS/MD Programs? 

• BS/MD programs are combined pathways that allow students to apply to medical school while in high school 
• If accepted students will receive conditional admission to both the undergraduate (BS) and medical (MD) portions 
• Benefits include streamlined process to medical school, reduced uncertainty about med school acceptance, tailored advising/mentorship/classes. 
• Challenges include more competitive admissions process, less flexibility to change field, and higher academic workload. 

SJV PRIME+ (UC Merced/UCSF) Program Overview 

• SJV PRIME+ is a BS to MD pathway offered in partnership between UC Merced, UCSF, and UCSF-Fresno aimed at training physicians committed to serving the San Joaquin Valley 
• Students will completed undergrad BS degree at UC Merced then transition into the UCSF medical curriculum carried out first at UC Merced then UCSF-Fresno for clinical years 
• About 12 students are accepted into the program each year 

SJV PRIME+ Application Requirement and Deadlines 

• Complete UC Application (October 1 – November 20
  • Only regular  on-time first year (freshman) applicants that apply directly to UC Merced will be reviewed for BS/MD pathway 
  • Qualifying majors: Biological sciences, bioengineering, chemistry, and Public Health BS) 
• Supplemental Application (Due Early December) 
  • Complete responses to the SVJP+ Supplemental Application Questions 
  • Will also need to submit two names and email of their Letters of Recommenders to complete supplemental application 
• Letters of Recommendations (Due Early December) 
  • Applicants will need to have submitted the two letters of recommendation by early December 

Web Resources

Overview

The CSU system has 23 campuses across California, offering a wide range of programs from business, engineering, and health sciences to arts and social sciences.

Student Experience

 Campuses vary from urban settings (e.g., CSU Los Angeles) to smaller college towns (e.g., Humboldt State). Each campus has unique strengths and cultures. 

• What You Need to Know About Applying to the CSU 

• Freshman: Admission Requirements 

• How to Apply: First Year Students 

• CSULA Freshman Admissions  

• Cal State Apply Applicant Help Center 

• Stanislaus State Freshman Admissions 

What is a non-profit private college?  

A private college is an independent school that is able to set its own policies and goals, and are privately funded.  These institutions rely on tuition, donations, and grants, from private sources such as individuals, foundations, and corporations. Typically tending to a smaller student body and curricular flexibility. Whereas, public colleges are funded and governed by state governments. In California there are over 150 private nonprofit colleges, producing about 20% of bachelor's degrees annually, costing about $20,000 per year.

What is a for-profit private college?  

A for-profit college is a business enterprise that offers educational opportunities. The primary goal is to generate income for their owners and shareholders. These colleges provide a broad range of degree programs at the  undergraduate and graduate levels.  

Which is right for you?  

In order to find the best fit for you, it is crucial to consider cost, class size, academic offerings, campus resources, and cultural fit. Refer to the table below for specifics on cost, class size, teacher-student ratio, curriculum, extracurriculars, and diversity and social environment.  

Article Resources:

1. Public vs Private Colleges: What's The Difference & Which Is Right For You? (crimsoneducation.org)
2. Public Vs Private Colleges: How Are They Different? (prosperityforamerica.org)

VIEW MAP of private colleges in California courtesy of Humboldt County of Office of Education

Notable private universities outside of California 

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) 
• Cornell University
• Harvard University 
• Columbia University
• Yale University
• Princeton University
• Johns Hopkins University
• Duke University
• Dartmouth College  

Overview: State Center Community College District consist of four colleges that serve over 50,000 students in the central valley. These colleges are: Fresno City College, Clovis Community College, Reedley College, and Madera Community College

Education Offered: These colleges offer lower division courses from career and technical programs to general education and major preparation for college transfer. Community colleges offer a wide variety of certificates as well as associate degrees for the workforce and prep for transfer to the university.

Affordability: currently the cost is $46. Per unit (2025-26 academic year) Financial Aid is available—students must complete FAFSA for the academic year they will be attending to be considered for any grants, scholarships, & student loans 

California has 116 community colleges across 73 districts, offering affordable pathways to earn associate degrees, career certificates, or transfer to a UC or CSU. Community colleges are a great option for students interested in starting their higher education locally, saving on tuition, or exploring the Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) program, which guarantees admission to many CSU and UC Campuses. 

Explore the full alphabetical list of colleges in this directory.

View Map of Community Colleges Near Fresno and the Central Valley courtesy of Central Valley Mother Lode Regional Consortium.

Many students start their higher educational journey at a community college (CC) then transfer to a four year university to obtain their bachelor's degree. The transfer route is a strategic way to complete lower division preparation, save money, and become a competitive transfer applicant to the California State University (CSU) or University of California (UC) systems. 

CSU Transfer Pathways

Many CSU campuses provide online transfer planners or roadmaps for specific majors. These help you plan which lower division courses to take at your community college so that your credits transfer smoothly. Visit the official CSU website to view the deadlines, checklist, etc. 

To learn more about CSU Transfer Pathways, click HERE

Associate Degree for Transfer

The Associate Degree for Transfer (AA-T or AS-T) guarantees priority admission to a California State University system. It does not guarantee admission to a specific CSU campus or major but ensures you are considered for admission to a CSU. Some campuses also consider ADTs during the admissions review.  

To learn more about the Associate Degree of Transfer, click HERE

UC Transfer Pathways

Transfer Pathway provides outline the key courses for popular majors to help you stay on track, graduate on time, and be a strong applicant to multiple UC campuses. Please visit the official UC website to view the full list of available majors.  

To learn more about UC Transfer Pathways, click HERE

Transfer Admission Guarantee 

Six UC campuses offer the Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) program. If you plan ahead and meet the requirements, you can secure a guaranteed admission to one UC campus. 

1. UC Davis
2. UC Irvine
3. UC Merced
4. UC Riverside
5. UC Santa Barbara
6. UC Santa Cruz

To get started, complete your UC Transfer Admission Planner and review it with your school counselor. If you do not have access to a counselor, UC campuses have transfer advisors who can help. Please visit the official UC website for deadlines, GPA requirements, and major specific details.  

To learn more about the Transfer Admission Guarantee, click HERE

Transfer Tools & Support  

ASSIST.org - see how community college courses transfer to UC and CSU campuses. Verify major prep and general education courses.  

UC Transfer Admission Planner – track UC transfer

Community College Transfers Centers – offer advising, workshops, and access to UC/CSU representatives. You can find your college's Transfer Center by visiting their official website.  

UC Dual Enrollment

• CMSP SJV-MedBridge 

• Welcome to MESA at Clovis Community College - Clovis Community College  

• PUENTE Program | Fresno City College 

• FREE for the First Year | Reedley College 

• TRIO - Student Support Services | Madera Community College 

Remember:

• The right major is different for everyone
• Spending the next few years learning about your major is part of the journey. 
• Aligning your studies with your passions and interests will keep you motivated. 
• Always look at the careers connected to majors that interest you. 

Why it Matters

Choosing a major can feel like a huge decision, but remember: the “right” major looks different for everyone. College is about exploration and growth, not having everything figured out on day one. 

The best major is usually one that: 

• Connects with your interests and passions (you’ll stay more motivated). 
• Builds on your strengths and skills. 
• Opens doors to careers or fields you’re curious about.  

How to Start Exploring 

Think about which high school classes or subjects you’ve enjoyed most. 

Ask yourself: What could I see myself learning about for the next 4 years? 

Online Tools:

• O*NET Interest Profiler 
• CareerOneStop Skills Matcher 

Watch videos like:

• How to Choose the Perfect College Major (Without the Stress!) 

• How to Choose a Major | Crash Course | How to College 

BA vs. BS: What's the difference?  

When looking at majors, you might notice some degrees are offered as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS). 

• BA (Bachelor of Arts) → broader focus, more room to connect your major to arts, languages, business, or social sciences. 
• BS (Bachelor of Science) → more science and math requirements, designed for technical, research, or health-related paths 

Example: UCLA Public Health offers both a BA and a BS. 

BA students complete intro-level life science, chemistry, and stats. They can focus on connections to policy, business, or global issues

BA= broader focus, flexibility to combine with other fields.

BS students complete the full Life Sciences Core (bio, chem, math, physics), which prepares them for advanced science electives and research

BS= more math and science-heavy, often leading to technical or pre-professional paths.

Learn more about BA vs. BS here

FAQ: Common Concerns About Majors 

• What if I change my major later?
  • Totally normal! Many students switch once they take classes and discover what excites them most.
• Does my major decide my career forever?
  • Not at all. Majors build skills—like communication, problem-solving, or analysis—that transfer into many careers.
• What if I don’t know yet?
  • That’s okay! You can start as undeclared. This gives you time to explore different fields, complete prerequisites, and still have a strong chance of entering a competitive major later—without limiting your options by applying directly to a high-demand program.

Enter content.

Every major has an official roadmap (sometimes called a degree plan or curriculum guide). These show: 

• Required courses for the major (core and electives). 
• Recommended sequence of classes each semester. 
• Prerequisites for upper-division courses. 
• Options for minors, concentrations, or specializations within the major. 

Why it matters:

• Helps you plan your schedule efficiently and avoid missing prerequisites
• Lets you see how many general education (GE) vs. major courses you’ll take. 
• Ensures you meet all graduation requirements without surprises. 

How to access:  

Search for (Campus Name) (Major) degree plan  or check the department website.

CSU Fresno Nursing Curriculum Guide 

Tip: Always cross-check the roadmap with your academic advisor each semester to stay on track.

Community Colleges (CC) 

California State University (CSU)

University of California

What is FAFSA?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a form administered by the U.S. Department of Education. It is used to determine eligibility for federal financial aid—money from the government to help pay for college.  

Why is it important?  

Completing the FAFSA gives you access to federal financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.  

Resources to start the FAFSA form  

• 6 Things Students Need Before They Fill Out the FAFSA® Form 

• Completing the FAFSA® Form 

• FAFSA Student/Parent Flyer  

Financial Aid Types

Scholarships: Gift aid; do not need to be repaid. Typically awarded for academic performance, talents, or other criteria. 

Grants: Gift aid; generally awarded based on financial need. 

Work Study: Self-help program; part-time employment during college.

Loans: Self-help; borrowed money that must be repaid, usually after leaving school. 

UC Grant Specifics  

Cal Grant is the main grant you actively apply for. Most other aid is automatically applied during school semesters based on eligibility. 

• UC Tuition: What to Expect 

• Tuition & cost of attendance 

• UC Apply for financial aid 

• 2025-26 Financial Aid Calculator 

California Grant Specifics 

Cal Grant is the only grant you apply for directly. Other grants are applied automatically if you meet eligibility requirements during the semester. 

Additional Cal Grant Awards

• Middle Class Scholarship  
• Cal Grant Community College Entitlement Award 

State Financial Aid Programs

For most state financial aid programs, submit your application no later than March 2, 2026 (date postmarked).

Cal Grant

Cal Grant requires submission of a school-certified GPA by March 2, 2026. For additional community college Cal Grants, apply by Sept. 2, 2026 (date postmarked).

• WHAT’S NEEDED TO COMPLETE YOUR FINANCIAL AID APPLICATION: (English & Spanish)  

• Cash for College Online Webinars