A method includes receiving a source data set and a target data set and identifying a loss function for a deep learning model based on the source data set and the target data set. The loss function includes encoder weights, source classifier layer weights, target classifier layer weights, coefficients, and a policy weight. During a first phase of each of a plurality of learning iterations for a learning to transfer learn (L2TL) architecture, the method also includes: applying gradient decent-based optimization to learn the encoder weights, the source classifier layer weights, and the target classifier weights that minimize the loss function; and determining the coefficients by sampling actions of a policy model. During a second phase of each of the plurality of learning iterations, determining the policy weight that maximizes an evaluation metric.