What is the UC Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG)?

The University of California’s Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) is a program that provides eligible California community college students with a guaranteed admission offer to one of six participating UC campuses. By completing specific course and GPA requirements, students can secure a spot at a UC without undergoing the regular competitive admissions process.

Which UC Campuses Participate?

Six UC campuses currently participate in the TAG program: Davis, Irvine, Merced, Riverside, Santa Barbara, and Santa Cruz. UC Berkeley, UCLA, and UC San Diego do not offer TAG agreements; students interested in these campuses must apply through the regular transfer process.

What are the General TAG Requirements?

  • Completion of a minimum of 30 UC-transferable semester units at a California community college.
  • Achievement of a cumulative GPA in UC-transferable coursework that meets or exceeds the campus-specific minimum (usually ranging from 3.0 to 3.4).
  • Fulfillment of the seven-course pattern in English and mathematics for UC transfers.
  • Completion of major-specific lower-division prerequisites listed in the TAG agreement for the chosen campus and major.

A community college student discussing course plans with an advisor to prepare for UC transfer.

How to Apply for TAG

  1. Develop an educational plan with a community college counselor to map out required courses.
  2. Submit an online TAG application through UC’s Transfer Admission Planner between September 1 and 30 of the academic year prior to planned transfer.
  3. After receiving TAG approval, complete the regular UC admission application by November 30.
  4. Maintain all academic requirements and promptly update your application if circumstances change.

The 2+2 Transfer Pathway: From Community College to UC

The “2+2” pathway refers to spending two years at a community college followed by two years at a university to earn a bachelor’s degree. TAG agreements streamline this path by guaranteeing admission to a UC campus if all conditions are met. To maximize your chances, start planning early, follow your community college’s Transfer Admission Planner, stay in close contact with counselors, and prioritize completing the required coursework with strong grades.