College Info
Understanding Community Colleges (JC)
California Community Colleges (also known as Junior Colleges or JCs) provide students with affordable, flexible pathways to achieve their educational and career goals. Community colleges offer opportunities to earn an associate degree, complete career technical education (CTE) programs, gain workforce skills, and transfer to a four-year university.
Unlike UC and CSU campuses, community colleges generally have open admission policies, meaning students can enroll if they have a high school diploma or equivalent. Many community colleges offer support programs, financial aid opportunities, and pathways that make college accessible for all students.
Students can explore options such as career programs, certificates, associate degrees, transfer pathways, and dual enrollment opportunities while building a plan that fits their goals.
At Hilmar High School, counselors help students explore community college options, understand enrollment steps, and connect with resources. Students interested in attending a community college after graduation will receive support with applications, financial aid, and next steps.
Families are encouraged to explore community college programs and requirements below and speak with their student’s counselor for guidance.
Understanding UC and CSU Admissions
California’s public universities include two major systems: the University of California (UC) and the California State University (CSU) systems. While both offer excellent opportunities for students, they have different missions, campuses, admission requirements, and selection processes.
The UC system is known for its strong emphasis on research, innovation, and academic preparation, while the CSU system focuses on providing accessible, career-focused education with many hands-on learning opportunities. Both systems require students to complete specific A–G courses, but admission requirements and application processes may vary by campus.
Families and students are encouraged to explore the links below to learn more about each system, review admission requirements, and understand important deadlines and expectations.
At Hilmar High School, students will launch their UC and CSU applications through the CaliforniaColleges.edu (CCGI) platform, which helps students explore colleges, prepare applications, and connect their academic information to the application process.
Counselors will also provide UC/CSU application workshops during the fall to support students through each step of the application process, including creating accounts, completing applications, reviewing requirements, and meeting deadlines.
We encourage families to begin exploring early and reach out to their counselor with any questions!
SAT/ACT & College Admissions
The University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) systems are currently test-blind, meaning SAT/ACT scores are not considered for admission. Many colleges and universities outside of UC/CSU are test-optional, meaning students can choose whether to submit SAT/ACT scores. Because policies vary by college, students should check each school’s current testing requirements and determine whether taking and submitting a score would benefit their application.