<p>I am an incoming freshman and will be attending Cal in the fall. I am currently choosing breadth courses and was told by advisors to pick lower division classes (1-99). Unfortunately, all the classes of interest to me are upper division. It is not my intention to sound pretentious, but I am studious, hard-working, and capable of handling a lot of work. Can I take upper division classes as a freshman? Is it strictly not permitted or just frowned upon?</p>
<p>You can take upper division classes but you’ll have last priority as a freshman so it will be harder to get in. Doesn’t hurt to try though, so I would say try signing up for one interesting upper division class that doesn’t have a long waitlist. If it’s just a breadth class and not a competitive major requirement course the material shouldn’t be too difficult. If you don’t like the class you can always drop it by the fifth week of classes without consequences.</p>
<p>Yes, you can take upper division courses as a freshman, though registration priority may not be in your favor. Be sure to consider listed prerequisites, if any.</p>
<p>Thank you both for the information. It was very helpful!</p>