ELC form to released student record information...

Sequoia
Sat, 21 Jun 2008 17:40:17 +0000

Definitely have your parents sign the paper. It’s just a formality that allows your school to forward your transcript. That you were asked to fill out the form means that you are presently in the top 12.5% of your grade, and the UCs will then determine through their own GPA calculation based on approved a-g courses whether you are in the top 4%. If you are designated an ELC applicant, you will be guaranteed a spot in the UC system. My D was ELC and had guaranteed spots at UCD and UCI. Berkeley and UCLA, as well as UCSD do not guarantee the spot, but the ELC designation definitely helps in determining you as a strong applicant and can have an effect on your admission prospects (depending on the context of your school and courseload).
Also, have a look at the statistics, I believe something like 98% of ELC students are accepted to UCSD, and around 40/45% to UCB and UCLA, chances that are a lot higher than around 22% admission rates.
And no, there is no “trap” and no obligation to attend a UC.

Here is some more info:
[Welcome to ELC](http://www.ucop.edu/sas/elc/)