An interactive 90-minute counselor-led lesson for 11th graders on the four California higher education systems: CCC, CSU, UC, and Private/Independent colleges. Includes comprehensive resources for entrance requirements (A-G, GPA), degree types, student matching, and sorting scenarios.
This isn't graded. It is a planning blueprint to help your counselor support your next-steps during senior year mapping!
15 Minutes - Individual Planning Map Slide 11 of 12
Debrief California College Quest
READY FOR THE NEXT STATION?
Turn in your Self-Assessment Map and Transit Match Activity Sheet before leaving. Let's make junior year count!
✔️ Plan Courses • ✔️ Protect Your GPA • ✔️ Explore Careers
GOLDEN STATE EXPEDITION
Slide 12 of 12
Academic Reset & Transfer Path
California Higher Education Transit Sort Page 1 of 2
TEAM ANSWER SHEET
THE TRANSIT SORT GRID
Group Names:
Date:
In your team, assign each of the 6 students from Page 1 to one of California's systems. Fill in the student name and list two pieces of concrete evidence (GPA requirement, degrees, classes, or specific goals) that prove this system is their target path.
1
California Community Colleges
Matched Student(s):
Why does this route fit? (Provide Academic & Career Evidence):
2
California State University
Matched Student(s):
Why does this route fit? (Provide Academic & Career Evidence):
3
University of California
Matched Student(s):
Why does this route fit? (Provide Academic & Career Evidence):
4
Private & Independent Colleges
Matched Student(s):
Why does this route fit? (Provide Academic & Career Evidence):
California Higher Education Transit Sort Page 2 of 2
Route 1: CCC 2-Year / Transfer / Voc
Route 2: CSU 4-Year / Practical Degrees
Route 3: UC 4-Year / Academic Research
Route 4: Private 4-Year / Small Seminar
My Route Rationale
Explain why this California college system represents your primary target. Reference your desired major, estimated GPA, and class preferences.
Junior Action Checklist
Essential next steps to take during the remainder of your 11th grade year to prepare for college apps:
Calculate my cumulative A-G GPA with my school counselor.
Research 3 specific campuses within my selected system.
Verify if I need to make up any "D" or "F" grades in A-G classes over summer.
Draft responses to the 8 UC Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) or build standard college resume.
💡 Counselor Tip: Most applications open on August 1st prior to your senior year. Do not wait until winter to begin researching!
Counselor Support Corner
Write down one specific question regarding admission, GPA, major alignment, or cost that you want to ask your counselor during your individual senior planning session.
