What is the UC TAG Agreement?
The University of California Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) is a formal agreement that offers eligible community college students a guaranteed path to a UC campus. Through TAG, you can secure admission to a participating UC school before you complete your transfer requirements, provided you meet all specified conditions.
Conditions for TAG Eligibility
Each UC campus sets its own requirements for TAG, but common conditions include:
- Completing a minimum number of transferable units (typically 60 semester or 90 quarter units).
- Achieving a required GPA in transferable coursework—exact thresholds vary by campus and major.
- Completing specific major preparation courses with a minimum grade.
- Finishing the general education requirements (such as IGETC) or campus-specific GE pattern.
- Submitting the TAG application by the September 30 deadline for the following fall term.
- Maintaining continuous enrollment at a California community college until transfer.
- Meeting any additional campus-specific requirements, such as a minimum number of units completed at the time of application.
Because requirements differ, you must review the TAG criteria for your target campus and major. Some competitive majors may not be eligible for TAG.
The 2+2 Transfer Plan
The 2+2 model means you spend two years at a California community college (roughly 60 transferable semester units) and then transfer to a UC for your final two years of bachelor’s degree study. This plan pairs with TAG to give you an early admission decision, letting you plan your coursework with confidence. You benefit from lower community college tuition while completing lower-division requirements, then finish your upper-division coursework at the UC.
Steps to Apply for TAG
- Research your target campus and major to confirm TAG participation and specific requirements.
- Meet with a community college counselor to create an academic plan that satisfies UC transfer and TAG criteria.
- Complete required coursework and maintain the required GPA.
- Submit the TAG application by the deadline (typically September 30) for the fall term.
- After receiving a TAG confirmation, continue to meet all conditions, including maintaining grades and completing remaining requirements.
Note: TAG is not available at every UC campus, and each campus reviews applications independently. Always confirm current details and deadlines with the UC campus and your community college counselors.