Getting In: A College Coach Conversation The Cost of California Colleges; How to Choose from the Schools You've Been Admitted to; Why are Colleges Sending Me So Much Mail?
Mar 26, 2026
Kristine Sawicki, former admissions officer and college coach, explains why schools flood students with mail and how they gather contact info. Maya Gee, former admissions officer turned coach, guides deciding among admit lists by focusing on fit, academics, and priorities. Pati Pineiro‑Goodenberger, education finance expert, breaks down California residency rules, WUE limits, and how UC aid and merit awards work.
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WUE Rarely Covers UC Campuses
- The Western Undergraduate Exchange doesn't include any University of California campuses and excludes popular Cal State campuses like Cal Poly SLO and SDSU.
- Pati warned WUE discounts may apply to some Cal States but not to UCs or certain flagship Cal State programs.
UC Merit Scholarships Are Scarce And Small
- UC merit scholarships are very limited and small relative to need; regents and chancellor awards range $2,500–$10,000 and mostly go to the top 1% of admits.
- Pati used UC Berkeley data: ~133,100 apps, ~14,400 admits, ~144 merit awards—about 1% of admitted students.
Make A Real Plan If You Want A Costly Out Of State Option
- If a student insists on attending an out-of-state private school, plan concrete ways to cover extra cost: apply for private scholarships, work summers, and consider student or parent loans.
- Pati told her daughter she must 'do your part' by finding scholarships or savings to bridge the gap.