YOUR JOURNEY STARTS HERE.

    R-STEP is UC Riverside’s transfer preparation program for California Community College students who are working toward a successful transfer to a four-year university. Through personalized guidance, academic planning, campus engagement, and transfer-focused resources, R-STEP helps students prepare for the next step in their educational journey.

    JOIN R-STEP TODAY →

    What is R-STEP?

    R-STEP is UC Riverside's comprehensive transfer preparation program designed to help California Community College students successfully prepare for transfer through personalized advising, meaningful campus engagement, and opportunities that support academic, personal, and professional growth.

    5 Program Pillars of R-STEP

    Personalized Transfer Guidance

    Receive individualized support from UC Riverside Admissions Specialists through one-on-one advising, transfer planning, application guidance, and major preparation review. R-STEP helps students understand their transfer pathway and make informed decisions throughout their educational journey.

    Transfer Resources & Planning

    Access online tools, transfer planning resources, academic information, and application support designed to help you stay organized, informed, and on track toward your transfer goals.

    Academic & Professional Development

    Explore opportunities that strengthen your academic experience beyond the classroom, including undergraduate research, leadership development, academic enrichment, and career exploration.

    Signature Experiences

    Engage in immersive programs and campus experiences that deepen your understanding of the transfer process while helping you build connections with the UC Riverside community. Signature programs include Transfer Empowerment Day, Highlander Day, and the Summer Stay Program.

    Community & Peer Connections

    Build relationships with current transfer students, peer mentors, admissions professionals, faculty, and campus partners who can provide encouragement, guidance, and support throughout your transfer journey.

    How to Join R-STEP

    1
    Explore

    Create your UC TAP account.

    • Create your UC TAP account
    • Complete your personal profile
    • Complete your academic profile
    • Add UC Riverside to your campus interest list
    • Select UC Riverside R-STEP as a program of interest
    Create UC TAP Account →
    2
    Connect

    Connect with UC Riverside.

    • Schedule a one-on-one appointment with an Admissions Specialist
    • Attend virtual or in-person transfer events
    • Learn about transfer requirements, majors, and campus resources
    Schedule an Appointment →
    3
    Engage

    Become an active participant.

    • Receive ongoing advising
    • Attend workshops and events
    • Participate in campus experiences
    • Stay on track toward a successful transfer
    View Upcoming Events →

    YOUR FUTURE
    AT UCR

    UC Riverside (UCR) is a top-tier research university known for its academic excellence, diversity, and commitment to student success. Located in Southern California, UCR offers more than 100 undergraduate programs and is recognized for its inclusive environment and innovative research.

    Top 1.3%

    Best Public Universities in the Nation

    #1

    Top Performer in Social Mobility

    200+

    Academic Programs to Explore

    500+

    Student Organizations & Clubs

    Signature Experiences

    Students participating in a UC Riverside transfer program

    Transfer Empowerment Day

    A full-day program to empower and prepare community college students for transfer success.

    →
    UC Riverside students and Scotty the Bear on campus

    Highlander Day

    Experience UC Riverside! Explore campus, connect with students, and learn about life as a Highlander.

    →
    Students gathered during a campus experience

    Summer Stay Program

    Live on campus, take courses, and experience UC Riverside before you transfer.

    →
    UC Riverside campus tower and walkway

    And More!

    Discover additional campus visits, workshops, and programs designed for transfer students.

    →
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Who is eligible for R-STEP?+

    R-STEP welcomes students from all 116 California Community Colleges who are planning to transfer to a four-year university. If you're interested in earning a bachelor's degree, learning more about UC Riverside, and receiving support with transfer planning and academic preparation, R-STEP is designed for you.

    The program also offers targeted outreach to students attending local area community colleges, first-generation and income-eligible students, educationally disadvantaged students, and participants in select community partnerships and grant-funded initiatives.

    How do I join R-STEP?+

    Joining R-STEP is simple and free. Create a UC Transfer Admission Planner (UC TAP) account, add UC Riverside to your campus interest list, and select R-STEP as a program of interest. Then, connect with a UC Riverside Admissions Specialist through an appointment or transfer event and stay engaged through advising, workshops, and campus experiences to make the most of your R-STEP experience.

    What are the benefits of R-STEP?+

    R-STEP helps you prepare for transfer with personalized advising, transfer planning resources, academic and professional development opportunities, immersive campus experiences, and a supportive community of admissions staff, peer mentors, and current UC Riverside students.

    Who can I contact for Advising?+

    You can schedule a transfer advising appointment with one of our counselors for personalized support, questions about the program, and help planning your next steps.

    Ready to Start Your Journey?

    Join thousands of students who are building their future at UCR.

    Join R-STEP Today →