Transferring to a university
Start smart at CCC! You can save thousands of dollars on your education while taking classes at CCC that can transfer to a number of in-state and out-of-state colleges and universities, including public and private schools.
Our transfer degrees are designed to fit seamlessly into your goals beyond CCC.
CCC also offers a dual admissions program called Degree Partnerships which allows you to be jointly admitted and enrolled at CCC and one of partner universities.
We strongly encourage you to meet with both a CCC advisor and an advisor from your intended university to ensure a smooth transition.
Prepare to transfer
01
Research and explore
When: Your first two terms at CCC
Identify your goals and start exploring majors and careers. CCC offers resources to help you learn about and get experience in the areas that interest you.
Your research and explore checklist
Explore these resources to help you find your focus.
- Search degrees and certificates by educational focus area
- Visit the Career Center
- If you are undecided on your major or career pathway, here is a step-by-step guide for undecided students: Explore Your Options
Register for your first term at CCC, taking introductory courses such as Writing and Math. Consider taking a basic introductory course in your major or pathway. A CCC advisor can help you choose the right courses.
- Join student clubs or organizations.
- Explore internships, volunteer work, or jobs in your field of interest.
- Explore your top college(s)
- Determine if dual enrollment may be beneficial for you to save you time and money. See our Degree Partnerships.
- Compare costs for in-state and out-of-state schools. College tuition and other expenses.
Looking at out-of-state colleges? Save on out-of-state tuition with Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a tuition savings program that makes attending out-of-state colleges and universities more affordable for students in the West. Through WUE, qualifying students receive a reduced out-of-state tuition rate, making college more affordable.
Review the WUE Program Handout (PDF) for details and participating schools.
- Minimum GPA requirements you need to be accepted
- Which general education and major-specific classes you must complete
- When you need to apply (deadlines) and how long the process takes
- How many students are accepted and the average GPA they had when admitted
02
Make a plan
When: After completing 15-25 credits
With the help of an academic advisor, start mapping your classes to meet the requirements for your major and university of choice.
Your make a plan checklist
- Confirm Your Degree Path – Talk with your advisor about whether your major leads to a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree and what that means for your classes.
- Match Classes to Requirements – Go over the university’s transfer guide to see which classes at your community college will count toward your degree.
- Make a Graduation Plan – Map out the rest of your classes at Clackamas Community College.
- Check Prerequisites – Make sure you complete any required courses before transferring so you can start upper-level classes right away.
- Stay on Track – Review timelines, GPA requirements, and application deadlines so there are no surprises.
03
Submit your applications
When: After you’ve completed 45-70 credits
Work with a transfer advisor to prepare your application materials and apply to universities.
Your application checklist
A university transfer advisor can confirm how your completed (and in-progress) courses will apply to your intended major or general education requirements.
- Confirm your course equivalencies and transfer credits.
- Get help with the application process.
- Write and revise your personal statement or admissions essays.
- Tailor your statement to each school’s values or programs.
- Request letters of recommendation (if applicable) from instructors and supervisors at least 4-6 weeks before the deadline.
- Create accounts for application portals (e.g., Common App, Beaver Basecamp).
- Research deadlines and submit all required documents in advance (application, financial aid, scholarships, etc.)
- Pay attention to application fees and fee waiver options
- Pay any required application fees.
- Request official transcripts from all colleges attended to be sent to your university.
- Monitor your email and university portals for updates and requests.
- Send final official transcripts after your last term and final grades are posted.
- After you receive acceptance letters, financial aid and /or scholarship offers, make your final decision and choose your university by the stated deadline and accept your offer.
- Attend any orientation and complete all necessary enrollment requirements for your new university.
- Submit an application for graduation two terms before your anticipated term of completion.
Top transfer schools for CCC students
Here are the top 15 universities that CCC students transfer to along with helpful links for general education requirements, degree requirements, transfer guides and transfer equivalency search tools.
Transfer university resources and requirements
Transfer Events and Information Sessions
Colleges and universities frequently visit CCC to meet with students and help ease the transfer process, some even offer one-on-one appointments.