How many schools is it normal to apply to as a transfer?

Hi, I’m a freshman and I’m planning to eventually go from CC to UCSD and/or SDSU. My major is bio studies. I 'm reading about how selective and difficult UCSD is, and I’m worried that I’m not applying to enough schools. However, when I look at assist.org, I see that I’d have to take tons more classes to meet the requirement for each UC (I was looking at UCLA and UCirvine). On my current UCSD and SDSU plan, I should be done with all my classes by Spring 2022, with the last few classes for transferring to UCSD. I 'm sorry if I sound super naive and lost … it is because I am . Should I consider adding more classes to my schedule so that I can apply to more schools? How many schools do people usually apply to as a transfer?

What is your backup plan if you do not get into SDSU or UCSD? Are you a local to San Diego?

Since both schools especially UCSD are competitive and there is no guarantee that you will be accepted, I would probably TAG to another UC that participates in the TAG program just in case and also take some courses needed to meet other campus requirements. Much depends upon your GPA and how you compare to other transfer applicants. Other than course requirements, is there a reason for limiting your transfer target schools to these 2?

Hello!  Yes, I’m a local to San Diego. I have decided to apply to both SDSU and UCSD because they are close to home. The only reason I applied to both of these schools was because they were closer to home and because I wasn’t accepted as a high school graduate, so I’m planning to try to apply again as a transfer. I currently don’t have a backup plan right now, but I see now that it’s better to look at applying to other schools as well. Thank you for suggesting that I look at the TAG program, I’m definitely going to do that.

CSU San Marcos is less competitive for admission than SDSU, and is the next closest California public university to San Diego after SDSU and UCSD.