I just missed out on getting TAG for UCSC (all though I’ll still submit it) because of a C in Calculus II instead of a B which means I don’t have a 3.0 in the major prep courses anymore.
My question is, I’m only one class away from getting IGETC done even though UCSC doesn’t recommend having IGETC for STEM majors, would it be beneficial for my transfer application chances to have it done?
Also, the requirements say I need a 2.8 GPA in three of my major prep courses done before this semester. (B in Calc I, B in Programming I and II, but a C in Calc II) means I’ll only have a 2.67 or 2.75 depending on which classes are counted. Counting all six major prep courses i’ll have a 2.8 in all six before transfer, but they’re talking about having that THIS semester.
If you are only one course away from IGETC, you may as well complete it. UCSC allows it to fulfill lower division general education requirements: https://admissions.ucsc.edu/why-ucsc/faq/student-transferring.html . Also, having it completed may be useful if you transfer to some other UC or CSU.
The non-recommendation for IGETC for CS is presumably to get transfer applicants to focus on the major preparation courses as their main priority.
I don’t necessarily think it will be beneficial in the admissions process (getting accepted, denied, etc.) because it isn’ recommended so it’s most likely not something admissions really looks for but I think it’ll help once you get there because all your GE classes will be out of the way. But ucbalumnus is right, you should just finish it because some UC’s &CSU’s do look for that.
&& I’m on the ssame boat. I’m also applying to CS but I’m actually trying to TAG it to UCI for informatics because I actually meet all the requirements for that and I’ll be missing 1 class when I apply to UCSC. But Santa Cruz is my first choice and my gpa right now is 3.57 so hopefully that one class doesn’t screw me over lol.
TAG is a pretty bright line. You meet the criteria, you are in… you don’t you are out. Since you only get one, i wouldn’t t waste it on one you won’t meet. If you meet the UCR or UCM threshold, get the guarantee there - then apply as a regular applicant to UCSC as a fall back.
If you’re only one class away from getting IGETC certified, I say go for it. I’m pretty sure if you get your IGETC done, your general ed reqs are practically waived, which gives you more freedom for scheduling your future classes.