College Applications
Early Decision vs. Early Action
California Community College
Time to apply: Spring semester for best course selection.
Fee to apply: none.
Testing: not required for admission
Math and English placement based on level of high school coursework, grades and GPA
No letters of recommendation.
No essays.
Some Community Colleges have residence halls.
If you are interested in attending a community college other than SJDC, visit that school’s website for more information.
California State University (CSU)
Time to apply: October 1st – December 2nd
Fee: $70 per campus
Testing required: No SAT/ACT testing requirement for admission
Students must satisfy A-G course requirements and earn a C or better in course work
Minimum GPA to apply: 2.0
No letters of recommendation.
No essays.
University of California (UC)
Time to apply: October 1st – December 2nd, but can begin application Aug. 1st
Fee: $70 per campus.
Testing required: No SAT/ACT testing requirement for admission.
Students must satisfy A-G course requirements and earn a C or better in course work.
Minimum GPA to apply: 3.0
No letters of recommendation.
Four Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) required.
Each response has a maximum of 350 words.
Private and Out of State Public Colleges & Universities
Time to apply: varies by College/University
Where to get applications: check websites
Students apply through the Common ApplicationMost private and out of state colleges will require teacher and counselor recommendations. Give your teacher and counselor recommenders at least 3 weeks notice! Provide them with a resume.
Writing recommenders a thank you note is polite and recommended.
Remember to “invite” and “assign” your teacher and counselor recommenders.
Fee for applying: varies.
Testing required: Will vary for Fall 2023 admission cycle. Check with colleges for their SAT/ACT requirement.
Recommendation required: varies. Usually required for most private colleges.
Essays are usually required (start early)
Major Clarity
Linden High School has partnered with Major Clarity for teacher recommendations, counselor recommendations and for uploading student transcripts. LHS students click on the button below to be directed to Major Clarity's login and use their LUSD Google Login to gain access to their account. LHS Students will link their Common App account to their Major Clarity account to request counselors and teachers for letter of recommendations. If there are any questions, please reach out to the counseling department.
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)
WUE is a program of the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE). Students who are residents of WICHE states may enroll at participating two and four-year college programs outside of their home state at a reduced tuition rate.
Merit Based Aid available pending students GPA or SAT/ACT Test scores
Students may be limited to certain majors