California College Deadlines This Week

Time is running out. If you're applying to California state universities, here's what you need to know right now.

Critical Deadlines

• CSU Priority Deadline: December 1st (4 working days away)

• UC Deadline: November 30th (NO extensions available)

After these dates, many schools close their applications entirely—especially the competitive campuses.

This Week's Priority

Students should focus exclusively on finishing UC and CSU applications. Essays are typically the biggest obstacle, and starting now is extremely late. Get applications submitted within the next day or two.

The Transcript Rule (Read Carefully)

DO NOT send transcripts to UC or CSU schools. These applications use self-reported grades. Only send transcripts if specifically requested via email or portal after submission.

All other schools (private, out-of-state) DO require transcripts.

How to Send Transcripts

• Check with your guidance counselor about your school's system (Parchment or similar services)

• If mailing physically: Send directly to the admissions office address, NOT the general school address

• Request a return receipt (but don't use certified mail—it slows down delivery)

Many students wonder why they haven't heard back from schools in April. The #1 reason? The school never received their transcript. Don't let a missing document derail your entire application.

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