@shaj It depends. Do you have AP credit?
You need at least 60 semester units. That’s at least 15 units per semester (15x4=60), unless you take summer classes (which are quickly-paced, but are a good way to increase the amount of units you have in a short amount of time). Lets say you take two classes, or about 6 units in the summer. Then you wouldn’t have to take 15 units for two semesters.
I’ll give you the details of my transfer plan, so you get an idea. Classes are generally 3-4 units. A full courseload is 12+ units, but people often take more than 12. I’d suggest not taking too many courses your first semester of college, but I digress:
I had a 3 on an AP Literature exam, which translates to 5.333 UC units and knocks out English 1A (introductory college english) from my general ed.
Fall 2014: 13 units
Spring 2015: 14 units
Summer 2015: 7 units
Fall 2015: 13-14 units
Spring 2016: 13-14 units
With them all added, I’ll have about 66.33-68.33 units. I think the cap for transferable units is 70 semester units, although I could be wrong. I planned out all of my classes ahead of time to be sure that I will have finished my IGETC, major prerequisites, and take enough units without having too much on my plate. Some people might not want to take summer classes, and some might. If you do, try not to take too many courses. I’d maybe suggest taking a course or two (introductory courses) at a CC before you attend, if you do wish to go that route. UCSC is still a great school, and I have friends who love it there. Community college is still a great option if you want a second chance to apply to college with a blank slate (high school grades are not counted).
It isn’t too difficult to transfer in two years; some people take more or less time, but it’s definitely manageable. Talk to counselors ahead of time to make sure you’re taking what you need to take, plan out everything really far in advance, and don’t overwhelm yourself.