Transferring? Start Here
Congratulations on taking this important step toward achieving your educational and career goals! Applying to transfer is an exciting milestone, and the Transfer Center is here to support you throughout the process.
Transfer admission timelines vary by institution and term, with application cycles available throughout the year for Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall admission. Each university may have different application deadlines, admission requirements, and supplemental materials, so it is important to plan ahead and stay informed.
On this page, you will find information about applying to California State Universities (CSU), University of California (UC) campuses, private universities, and other transfer opportunities. We encourage you to review application deadlines carefully, explore transfer pathways and admission programs, and connect with our team early in the process.
If you need assistance with transfer planning, university selection, application completion, personal statements, or understanding admission requirements, the Transfer Center is here to help. We look forward to supporting you on your journey to a four-year university.
Río Hondo College Bachelor’s Programs
Río Hondo College offers bachelor’s degree programs that provide advanced, career-focused education in high-demand fields. Through hands-on learning and industry-relevant training, students can prepare for professional opportunities in areas such as Automotive Technology and Electronic Digital Instrument Performance and Production.
California State Universities (CSU)
Apply to any of the 22 campuses at www.calstate.edu/apply.
| To be accepted for the: | Your application must be received: |
|---|---|
| FALL semester or quarter | October 1 through November 30 the previous year. |
| SPRING semester* | July 1 through August 31 the previous year. (July 1 through July 31 starting in 2027) |
* Some campuses do not accept mid-year applicants. See open campuses and majors on Cal State Apply during the application periods listed above.
University of California (UC)
Apply to UC campuses at apply.universityofcalifornia.edu.
| To be accepted for the: | Your application must be received: |
|---|---|
| FALL semester or quarter | October 1 through November 30 the year before. |
| WINTER quarter 1 SPRING semester at UC Merced | July 1 through July 31 the previous year. |
| SPRING quarter 1, 2 | October 1 through October 31 the previous year. |
1. Many campuses do not accept mid-year applicants. Check with Mt. SAC’s Transfer Center or Counseling for details.
2. Most campuses do not accept applicants for the spring quarter. See open/closed campuses and majors on the UC application.
Private Colleges and Universities
| Campus | Fall Application Deadline | Spring Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Azusa Pacific University | February 15 (priority deadline) June 1 (final deadline) | October 15 (priority deadline) December 1 (final deadline) |
| Biola University | March 1 | November 15 |
| California Baptist University | Rolling application deadline. | Rolling application deadline. |
| Chapman University | March 15 | October 15 |
| Loyola Marymount University | February 1 (priority deadline) March 15 (final deadline) | October 15 |
| Pepperdine University | January 5 | October 15 |
| University of La Verne | Rolling application deadline; submit by April 1 for priority consideration. | Rolling application deadline; submit by December 1 for priority consideration. |
| USC | February 15 | Does not accept Spring applications |
| Whittier College | April 15 | December 1 |
HBCU’s & Out-of-State Universities
If you are considering transferring to an out-of-state university or Historically Black College or University (HBCU), keep in mind that admission requirements, application processes, and deadlines vary by institution. Río Hondo College students are encouraged to connect directly with university admissions representatives to learn about transfer requirements, transfer credit policies, and important deadlines. The information below is intended as a guide and is subject to change.
| Campus | Fall Application Deadline | Spring Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | April 1 (Transfer students may also apply for summer by the April 1 deadline) | December 1 |
| Charles Drew University | See program application dates. | See program application dates. |
| Columbia University, School of General Studies | March 1 (Early action) June 1 (Regular decision) | October 1 (Early action) November 1 (Regular decision) |
| University of Nevada, Las Vegas | July 1 | Early December |
The Common Application
Many private universities, out-of-state institutions, and several HBCUs use the Common Application (Common App), a centralized online platform that allows students to apply to multiple colleges with a single application. While application requirements and deadlines vary by institution, the Common App can simplify the transfer process by providing one location to submit academic information, essays, and supporting documents. To learn more and explore participating colleges and universities, visit the Common App website at www.commonapp.org.
UC Campuses
Private/Independent Colleges and Universities
Next Steps After You Apply for Fall 2026
Congratulations on submitting your university application! Now is the perfect time to stay organized and prepared for what comes next. Each university system has its own follow-up process, and it’s important to check your email and student portals regularly for updates. Click on the links below to view the next steps in your transfer process.
Missed the Fall 2026 Application Deadline?
If you were unable to submit your UC or CSU application by the Fall 2026 deadline, don’t worry—there are still options available to keep your transfer goals on track. Many universities offer additional admission cycles, alternative pathways, or late application opportunities depending on space and program availability. Click on the links below to learn more about which universities are accepting applications for Fall 2026.
Cal State Application Video Tutorials & Resources
UC Application Video Tutorials and Resources
- UC Transfer Application Guide (PDF)
- Personal Insight Questions
- Transfer PIQ
- Transfer PIQ (Spanish)
- Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG)