One other thought here. Since you say “returning student” I assume this means you started college, took some time off, and then started back at a CC. Depending on how old you are you may qualify as a “non-traditional student”. If so you should look for UC resources to help you apply, and there may be different rules in admissions to help you.
If you are not tied to your locale or CA for college, some privates have programs aimed at non-traditional students so that is worth exploring too. Sometimes they even come with generous financial aid because the pool of students is so small.