Admission and Application

Requirements for admission to California State University San Marcos are in accordance with Title 5, Chapter 1, Subchapter 3, of the California Code of Regulations. Complete information is available on the California State University website.

All CSU applications must be submitted online on the Cal State Apply website. An acknowledgement will be sent to the applicant when the online application has been submitted.

Reservation

The University reserves the right to select its students and deny admission to the University or any of its programs at the University, in its sole discretion, determines appropriate based on an applicant’s suitability and the best interests of the University.

Importance of Filing Complete, Accurate, and Authentic Application Documents

California State University San Marcos advises prospective students that they must supply complete and accurate information on the application for admission, residency questionnaire, and financial aid forms. Further, applicants must, when requested, submit authentic and official transcripts of all previous academic work attempted. Failure to file complete, accurate, and authentic application documents may result in denial of admission, cancellation of registration or academic credit, suspension, or expulsion (Section 41301, Article 1.1, Title 5, California Code of Regulations).

Admissions and Student Outreach

The Office of Admissions and Student Outreach offers a full array of services from the time of first contact until students register for their first semester.

All pre-enrollment services are housed in Cougar Central. Admissions and Student Outreach is responsible for processing admission applications and for the evaluation of high school and transfer credits, but also offers a wide variety of services to prospective students who have not yet applied. Admissions information sessions, and campus tours are available to students seeking information about the University. Questions about majors offered, support services available, or the future development of the campus can also be addressed. In addition to the professional staff, the Pride Ambassadors are a group of continuing CSU San Marcos students who are available for these services.

Enrollment Management Services Operations/Registrar

The Office of EMS Operations/Registrar is responsible for registration, grade reporting, maintenance of the official academic record, name, address, and major changes, outgoing transcripts, incoming transcript evaluation, class rosters, enrollment verification, registration status, leaves of absence, and graduation processing. Application for services related to the above may be obtained from Cougar Central in the Administrative Building. The official name, address, and major changes for a student must be requested in Cougar Central. All official academic records for students are maintained in EMS Operations/Registrar, including academic transcripts, academic status, degree information, grade changes, and petitions for exceptions to academic regulations.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Freshman Requirements

Generally, applicants will qualify for consideration for first-time freshman admission if they meet the following requirements:

1. Have graduated from high school, have earned a Certificate of General Education Development (GED) or have passed the California High School Proficiency Examination (CHSPE); 
2. Complete the 15-unit comprehensive “a-g” pattern of college preparatory courses;
3. Have completed, with grades of C- or better, each of the courses in the comprehensive pattern of college preparatory subject requirements also known as the “a-g” pattern (see “Subject Requirements”); and

• The CSU will accept “Credit” or “Pass” grades to satisfy “a-g” requirements completed during Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall 2020 terms and during Winter, Spring or Summer 2021 terms. The CSU expects and assumes that high school Pass (Credit) grades will represent work completed at the C- or higher level. As of Fall 2021 and forward, grades are expected for courses.

4. Earn a qualifying “a-g” grade point average (GPA) as described below. 

• California residents and graduates of California high schools will be eligible for admission by earning a 2.50 or greater “a-g” GPA.
• Any California high school graduate or resident of California earning a GPA between 2.00 and 2.49 may be evaluated for admission based upon supplemental factors such as number of courses exceeding minimum “a-g” requirements, household income, extracurricular involvement, and other available information that would inform the university admission decision. 
• Non-California residents may be eligible for admission to the CSU by earning a 3.00 or greater “a-g” GPA along with other supplemental factors utilized by the individual university, including those outlined by impacted universities and programs. 
• Any Non-California resident earning a GPA between 2.47 and 2.99 may be evaluated for admission based upon supplemental factors such as number of courses exceeding minimum “a-g” requirements, household income, extracurricular involvement, and other available information that would inform the university admission decision.  

5. Each campus will determine the supplemental factors used with GPA to determine eligibility in these cases and communicate these criteria publicly for prospective students. 

The California State University (CSU) has permanently discontinued the use of ACT/SAT examinations in determining admission eligibility. Submitted test scores by admitted students would be considered only for purposes of student placement in Math or English courses.

High School Students

High school students may be considered for enrollment in certain special programs if recommended by the principal and the appropriate university department chair, and if preparation is equivalent to that required of eligible California high school graduates. Such admission is only for a given specific program and does not constitute a right to continued enrollment.

Transfer Policies of California State University

Most commonly, college level credits earned from an institution of higher education accredited by a regional accrediting agency is accepted for transfer to member universities of the CSU. However, authority for decisions regarding the transfer of undergraduate credits is delegated to each CSU university.

California Community Colleges and other authorized certifying institutions can certify up to 39 semester (58.5 quarter) units of General Education-Breadth (GE-Breadth) or 37 semester (55.5 quarter) units of the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) for transfer students to fulfill lower-division general education requirements for any CSU prior to transfer.

“Certification” is the official notification from a California Community College or authorized institution that a transfer student has completed courses fulfilling lower-division general education requirements. The CSU GE-Breadth and the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) certification course lists for particular community colleges can be accessed on the official transfer and articulation system for California’s public colleges and universities website, assist.org.

CSUs may enter into course-to-course or program-to-program articulation agreements with other CSUs, any or all of the California community colleges, and other regionally accredited institutions. Established CSU and CCC articulations may be found assist.org. Students may be permitted to transfer no more than 70 semester (105 quarter) units to a CSU from an institution which does not offer bachelor’s degrees or their equivalents, for example, community colleges. Given the university’s 30-semester (45-quarter) unit residency requirement, no more than a total of 90-semester (135-quarter) units may be transferred into the University from all sources.

Transfer Requirements

Applicants who have completed fewer than 60 transferable semester college units (fewer than 90 quarter units) are considered lower-division transfer students. Applicants who have completed 60 or more transferable semester college units (90 or more quarter units) are considered upper-division transfer students. Applicants who complete college units during high school or through the summer immediately following high school graduation are considered first-time freshmen and must meet the CSU minimum eligibility requirements for first-time freshman admission. Transferable courses are those designated for baccalaureate credit by the college or university offering the courses and accepted as such by the university to which the applicant seeks admission.

Provisional Admission First-Time Freshman

California State University San Marcos may provisionally admit first-time freshman applicants based on their academic preparation through the junior year of high school and planned coursework for the senior year. The campus will monitor the final terms of study to ensure that admitted students complete their secondary school studies satisfactorily, including the required college preparatory subjects, and graduate from high school. Students are required to submit an official transcript after graduation to certify that all course work has been satisfactorily completed. Official high school transcripts must be received prior to the deadline set by the University. In no case may documentation of high school graduation be received any later than the census date for a student’s first term of CSU enrollment. A campus may rescind admission decisions, cancel financial aid awards, withdraw housing contracts, and cancel any university registration for students who are found not to be eligible after the final transcript has been evaluated.

Applicants will qualify for regular (non-provisional) admission when the University verifies that they have graduated and received a high school diploma, have completed the comprehensive pattern of college preparatory “a-g” subjects, and, if applying to an impacted program or campus, have met all supplementary criteria.

Subject Requirements

The CSU requires that first-time freshman applicants complete, with grades of C- or better, a comprehensive pattern of college preparatory study totaling 15 units. A “unit” is one year of study in high school.

• 2 years of social science, including 1 year of U.S. history, or U.S. history and government.
• 4 years of English.
• 3 years of math (algebra, geometry, and intermediate algebra; four years recommended).
• 2 years of laboratory science (1 biological and 1 physical, both must include laboratory instruction).
• 2 years in the same foreign language (subject to waiver for applicants demonstrating equivalent competence).
• 1 year of visual and performing arts: art, dance, drama/theater, or music.
• 1 year of electives: selected from English, advanced mathematics, social science, history, laboratory science, foreign language, visual and performing arts, or other courses approved and included on the UC/CSU “a-g” list.

The California Promise 

The California Promise Program enables a specific number of CSUs to establish pledge programs for entering first-time students who are both interested and able to complete baccalaureate degrees in 4 years. All CSUs have established programs for students with Associate Degrees for Transfer from any California Community College to complete their baccalaureate degrees in 2 years. The program is limited to students who are residents of California.

Students who commit to enter either the 4-year or 2-year pledge will be given a priority registration appointment for each state-supported enrollment period and will be provided with routine and thorough academic advisement. In order to remain in the program, students must meet with their advisors as prescribed, develop an enrollment plan, and complete 30 semester units or the quarter equivalent within each academic year, including summer. Participating CSUs may stipulate other requirements as well. Interested students entering the CSU should contact university offices or visit the California Promise Program website.

Foreign Language Subject Requirement

The Foreign Language Subject Requirement may be satisfied by applicants who demonstrate competence in a language, other than English, equivalent to or higher than expected of students who complete two years of foreign language study. Consult with your school counselor or any CSU campus’ Admissions Office for further information.

Subject Requirement Substitution for Students with Disabilities

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to complete college preparatory course requirements if at all possible. If an applicant is judged unable to fulfill a specific course requirement because of his or her disability, alternate college preparatory courses may be substituted for specific subject requirements. Substitutions may be authorized on an individual basis after review and recommendation by the applicant’s academic advisor or guidance counselor in consultation with the Director of Disability Support Services. Although the distribution may be slightly different from the course pattern required of other students, students qualifying for substitutions will still be held for 15 units of college preparatory study. Students should be aware that course substitutions may limit later enrollment in certain majors, particularly those involving mathematics. Further information can be obtained from the Director of Disability Support Services.

Undergraduate Transfer Applicants

Transfer Requirements

Applicants who have completed fewer than 60 transferable semester college units (fewer than 90 quarter units) are considered lower-division transfer students. Applicants who have completed 60 or more transferable semester college units (90 or more quarter units) are considered upper-division transfer students. Applicants who complete college units during high school or through the summer immediately following high school graduation are considered first-time freshmen and must meet the CSU minimum eligibility requirements for admission. Transferable courses are those designated for baccalaureate credit by the college or university offering the courses and accepted as such by the campus to which the applicant seeks admission.

Lower-Division Transfer Requirements

Due to increased enrollment demands, some CSUs do not admit lower-division transfer applicants. Students are advised to check the respective university they are interested in to see if lower division transfer applications are accepted.

An applicant who completes fewer than 60 semester (90 quarter) units of college credit is considered a lower-division transfer student. Due to enrollment pressures, some CSUs do not admit lower-division transfers so that more upper-division transfers can be accommodated. 

Having fewer than 60 semester (90 quarter) units at the point of transfer may affect eligibility for registration priority at a CSU and may affect the student’s financial aid status. 

California resident transfer applicants with fewer than 60 semester or 90 quarter units must: 

• Have a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 (C) or better in all transferable units attempted; 
• Have completed, with a grade of C- or better, a course in written communication and a course in mathematics or quantitative reasoning at a level satisfying CSU General Education Breadth Area A2 and B4 requirements, respectively; 
• Be in good standing at the last institution attended; and 
• Meet any one of the following eligibility standards. 

Transfer Based on Current Admission Criteria 
The applicant meets the freshman admission requirements in effect for the term for which the application is filed;
OR
Transfer Based on High School Eligibility 
The applicant was eligible as a freshman at the time of high school graduation and has been in continuous attendance in an accredited college since high school graduation;
OR
Transfer Based on Making Up Missing Subjects 
The applicant had a qualifiable eligibility index at the time of high school graduation (combination of GPA and test scores if needed), has made up any missing college preparatory subject requirements with a grade of C- or better, and has been in continuous attendance in an accredited college since high school graduation. 

One baccalaureate-level course of at least 3 semester (4 quarter) units is usually considered equivalent to one year of high school study. 

(Note: Some CSUs may require lower-division transfer students to complete specific college coursework, for example the four basic skill courses, as part of their admission criteria.)

Upper-Division Transfer Requirements

Generally, applicants will qualify for consideration for upper-division transfer admission if they meet all of the following requirements:

1. Cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 in all transferable units attempted;
2. In good standing at the last college or university attended; and
3. Completed at least sixty (60) transferable semester (90 quarter) units of college level coursework with a grade point average of 2.0 or higher and a grade of C- or better in each course used to meet the CSU general education requirements in written communication, oral communication, critical thinking, and quantitative reasoning, e.g. mathematics.

The 60 units must include at least 30 units of courses that meet CSU general education requirement, including all of the general education requirements in communication in the English language (both oral and written) and critical thinking and the requirement in mathematics/quantitative reasoning* (usually 3 semester units) OR the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) requirements in English communication and mathematical concepts and quantitative reasoning.

*CSUSM currently recognizes a statistics course taken outside of the CSU system and the California Community Colleges as satisfying the requirement in mathematics/quantitative reasoning if the course is certified by a California community college or has an explicit intermediate algebra prerequisite.

Associate Degrees for Transfer (AA-T OR AS-T)

The Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) and the Associate in Science for Transfer (AS-T) degrees offered at the California Community Colleges (CCC) are designed to provide California Community College students the optimum transfer preparation and a clear admission pathway to those CSU degree majors.

CCC students who earn an Associate Degree for Transfer (AA-T or AS-T) are guaranteed admission with junior standing to a CSU and given priority admission consideration over other transfer applicants when applying to a local CSU or non-impacted CSU program. AA-T or AS-T admission applicants are given limited priority consideration based on their eligibility ranking to an impacted university/program or to CSUs/programs that have been deemed similar to the degree completed at the community college. Students who have completed an AA-T/AS-T in a program deemed similar to a CSU major are able to complete remaining requirements for graduation within 60 semester (90 quarter) units. It is the responsibility of the student who has earned an AA-T/AS-T to provide documentation of the degree to the CSU. For the admissions process, students are responsible for working with their community college counselors to complete verification of AA-T or AS-T degree progress through the e-Verify process within the established university deadlines.

Provisional Admission Transfer Applicants

California State University San Marcos may provisionally or conditionally admit transfer applicants based on their academic preparation and courses planned for completion. The university will monitor the final terms to ensure that those admitted complete all required courses satisfactorily. All accepted applicants are required to submit an official transcript of all college-level work completed. A CSU may rescind admission for any student who is found not to be eligible after the final transcript has been evaluated. In no case may such documents be received and validated by the University any later than a student’s registration for their second term of CSU enrollment.

Adult Students

As an alternative to regular admission criteria, an applicant who is 25 years of age or older may be considered for admission as an adult student if they meet all of the following conditions:

1. Possesses a high school diploma (or has established equivalence through either the General Educational Development or California High School Proficiency Examinations).
2. Has not been enrolled in college as a full-time student for more than one term during the past five years.
3. If there has been any college attendance in the last five years, has earned a 2.00 GPA or better in all college work attempted.

Consideration will be based upon a judgment as to whether the applicant is as likely to succeed as a regularly admitted freshman or transfer student and will include an assessment of basic skills in the English language and mathematical computation.

Other Applicants

An applicant not admitted under the provisions cited in this catalog should consider enrollment at another appropriate institution. Only under the most unusual circumstances will such applicants be permitted to enroll in the University. Permission is granted only by special action of the University.

International (Foreign) Student Admission Requirements

The California State University must assess the academic preparation of foreign students. For this purpose, “foreign” include those who hold U.S. temporary visas as students or exchange visitors or in other nonimmigrant classification.

The CSU uses separate requirements and application filing dates in the admission of foreign students. Verification of English proficiency (see the section on the English Language Requirement for under graduate applicants), financial resources, and academic performance are each important considerations for admission. Academic records from foreign institutions must be on file at least four weeks before registration for the first term and, if not in English, must be accompanied by certified English translations. Complete information can be found at www.csusm.edu/global/.

Insurance Requirement

Effective August 1, 1995, all F 1 and J 1 visa applicants must agree to obtain and maintain health insurance as a condition of registration and for continued enrollment in the CSU. Such insurance must be in amounts as specified by the California State University System. Information about required coverage and which insurance policies meet these criteria may be obtained from the Office of Global Education.

Returning Students

Undergraduate students in good standing may re-enroll in the University after an absence of one term (see Out One Term  ).

The application for admission and fee of $70 are required if the student was not enrolled in any of the two terms (not including summer) prior to the term for which the student is seeking admission, or if the student was enrolled in another institution during the absence from CSU San Marcos (see Leave of Absence  ). Returning students who must reapply must be fully eligible as an upper-division transfer student before they will be admitted to CSU San Marcos. Students must reapply through www.calstate.edu/apply during the following period for the semester they plan to attend.

Fall semester: October 1 - November 30
Spring semester: August 1 - August 31

Students should send official transcripts to the Office of Admissions & Student Outreach from all schools attended since their last semester at CSU San Marcos.

Readmission of Previously Disqualified Students

Students who have been academically disqualified must submit a Petition for Reinstatement and may be required to reapply for admission. The petition for reinstatement, as well as important deadlines and instructions, can be found online.

Intrasystem and Intersystem Enrollment Programs

Fully matriculated students enrolled at any CSU have access to courses at other CSUs on a space available basis unless those universities/programs are impacted. This access is offered without students being required to be formally admitted to the host university and in most cases without paying additional fees. Students should consult their home university academic advisors to determine how such courses may apply to their specific degree programs before enrolling at the host university.

There are two programs for enrollment within the CSU and one for enrollment between CSU and the University of California or California Community Colleges. Additional information about these programs is available from the Office of Enrollment Services.

CSU Fully Online Courses – Matriculated students in good standing may request enrollment in one course per term, offered by a CSU host university. Enrollment requests will be granted based on available space, as well as completion of any stated prerequisites. Credit earned at the host university is electronically reported to the student’s home campus to be included on the student’s transcript at the home university.

CSU Visitor Enrollment – Matriculated students in good standing enrolled at one CSU may enroll at another CSU for one term. Credit earned at the host university is reported at the student’s request to the home university to be included on the student’s transcript at the home university.

Intersystem Cross Enrollment – Matriculated CSU, UC, or community college students may enroll on a “space available” basis for one course per term at another CSU, UC, or community college and request that a transcript of record be sent to the home university.

There are two programs for enrollment within the CSU and one for enrollment between CSU and the University of California or California Community Colleges. Additional information about these programs is available from the Office of Registration and Records.

CSU Concurrent Enrollment

CSU Visitor Enrollment — matriculated students in good standing enrolled at one CSU campus may enroll on a space-available basis at another CSU campus for one term. Credit earned at the host campus is reported at the student’s request to the home campus to be included on the student’s transcript at the home campus.

Intersystem Cross Enrollment — matriculated CSU, UC, or community college students may enroll on a space-available basis for one course per term at another CSU, UC, or community college and request that a transcript of record be sent to the home campus.

Admission to Teaching Credential Programs

Admission to the University as a student does not constitute admission to a teaching credential program, and vice-versa. Students must be admitted to both in order to enroll in classes. Students who intend to work toward the Multiple or Single Subject Credential must also apply for admission to the credential program. For details regarding the admission requirements, please refer to the School of Education section.

Post-baccalaureate students must file official transcripts with both the Office of Admissions and Student Outreach and the School of Education if they plan to enter a credential program. Students must include transcripts from each college attended (including extension, correspondence, summer session, or evening courses).

Second Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements

Students who have a previous bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education may apply to receive a second bachelor’s degree (on a space-available basis). Applicants must have a cumulative undergraduate grade point average of 2.5, or a grade point average of 2.5 in the last 60 units attempted. Due to campus enrollment demands, enrollment of students seeking a second bachelor’s degree may be limited to majors designated as “areas of critical need” by the CSU Chancellor’s Office. Please note that students may not receive a second bachelor’s degree by taking a second concentration within a previous degree program.

Undergraduate Application Procedures

Prospective students applying for part-time or full-time undergraduate programs of study must submit a completed undergraduate application. The $70 nonrefundable application fee should be paid online at the time of application via credit card, e-check, or PayPal and may not be transferred or used to apply to another term. An alternate major may be requested on the application if desired by the university. The applications of persons denied admission to an impacted university may be redirected to another university at no cost, but only if the applicant is CSU eligible.

Application Filing Periods

(Most campuses do not admit students to summer term.)

Each non-impacted campus accepts applications until capacities are reached. Many campuses limit undergraduate admission in an enrollment category due to overall enrollment limits. If applying after the initial filing period, consult the campus admission office for current information.

Undergraduates are encouraged to apply during the initial filing period to facilitate the campus’ early review and response. If applying after the initial filing period, the student should consult with the Office of Admissions for current information.

Semester/Session

Application Acknowledgement

On-time applicants may expect to receive an acknowledgment from the universities to which they have applied within two to four weeks of filing the application. The notice may also include a request that applicants submit additional records necessary to evaluate academic qualifications. Applicants may be assured of admission if the evaluation of relevant qualifications indicates that applicants meet CSU admission requirements, and in the case of admission impaction, supplemental criteria for admission to an impacted program. Unless specific written approval/confirmation is received, an offer of admission is not transferable to another term or to another university.

Notification of Admission

Applicants who have received an application acknowledgment and have submitted all required admission materials will begin to receive admission decisions electronically. If the processing schedule permits, some applicants may be notified in advance of these dates.

Cancellation of Admission

Admission will be cancelled automatically if a student who received a notice of admission for a given semester does not register for that semester. If the student wishes to undertake studies at the University at a later date, the student must file a new application, pay a new application fee, and meet the current admission requirements.

Materials supporting the application for admission, such as transcripts and entrance examination scores, are retained for one year only. Additional documentation will be required of studies done in the interim to complete the student’s application file.

Filing Official Transcripts

Applicants must file the following official transcripts with the Office of Admissions:

1. Freshmen – May be required to submit seventh semester high school transcripts prior to graduation but must send final official transcripts with graduation date listed by July 15 for Fall admission.
2. Transfers – Request official transcripts be sent directly from all colleges or universities previously attended (even if no coursework was completed at the time of application). Transcripts must be received in sealed envelopes from each institution attended. Official score reports from Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or CLEP, or CLEP exams must also be submitted. Applicants should keep personal copies of all transcripts and test scores to complete the admission application and for academic advising sessions. Applicants may be asked to submit high school transcripts if admissibility cannot be determined on the basis of college or university transcripts. Final official transcripts must be received by July 15 for Fall admission and October 15 for Spring admission.
3. Photocopy of the military separation form DD-214, evaluation of military training form DD-295, or SMART transcript if applicant wants transfer credit for active military service.

A transcript will be considered official and accepted to meet the regulations governing admission only if forwarded directly to California State San Marcos by the institution attended, or if delivered to the Office of Admissions and Student Outreach in an original sealed, official envelope. Transcripts or documents labeled “Unofficial” are not accepted. All records or transcripts received by the University become the property of the university and will not be released to a third party.

Student Identification Numbers

Students enrolled at CSUSM will be issued a unique student identification number. This number will be used on all forms, identification cards, petitions, class rosters, and University records. It will be utilized for all student services and campus transactions.

Use of Social Security Number

Applicants are required to include their correct Social Security numbers in designated places on applications for admission pursuant to the authority contained in Section 41201, Title 5, California Code of Regulations, and Section 6109 of the Internal Revenue Code (26 U.S.C. 6109). The University uses the Social Security number to identify students and their records including identification for purposes of financial aid eligibility and disbursement and the repayment of financial aid and other debts payable to the institution. Also, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires the University to file information returns that include the student’s Social Security number and other information, such as the amount paid for qualified tuition, related expenses, and interest on educational loans. This information is used by the IRS to help determine whether a student, or a person claiming a student as a dependent, may take a credit or deduction to reduce federal income taxes.

Undergraduate English Language Requirement   

All undergraduate applicants whose native language is not English, and who have not attended schools at the secondary level or above for at least three years full-time where English is the principal language of instruction, must present a score of 61 or above on the internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with a score no lower than 19 on the Writing section, and no section score below 14.

Alternatively, applicants may present a score of 500 or above on the paper-based TOEFL, or an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 5.5 or above.

Individual degree programs may require a higher score.

Placement Measures for First-Year GE Written Communication and Mathematics/Quantitative Reasoning Courses 

Freshman skills assessment and placement for general education written communication and mathematics/quantitative reasoning shall be based on systemwide skills assessment standards that include the Early Assessment Program/ Smarter Balanced Achievement Levels, ACT scores and/or SAT scores, high school coursework, high school GPA and math GPA.
Skills assessments are not a condition for admission to the CSU; they are a condition of enrollment.

These skills assessments are designed to inform entering freshmen of placement in appropriate baccalaureate-level courses based on their skills and needs.

First-time freshmen in need of support as determined by the skills assessment will be placed in supported instruction. Supported instruction is designed to assist students in credit bearing courses. Students may also be required to participate in the Supportive Pathways for First-Year Students Program.
The Supportive Pathways for First-Year Students Program offers pathways and academic and social support that align with each incoming student’s needs. The goal of the program is to ensure that first-time students successfully complete the General Education (GE) written communication (A2) and math/quantitative reasoning (B4) requirements within their first year.

Assessments and Placement for GE Written Communications Has Fulfilled the GE Subarea A2 English Requirement
The student has met the requirement via completion of one of the following: 

Advanced Placement (AP) Test

• 3 or above: AP Language and Composition
• 3 or above: AP Composition and Literature

College Transfer Coursework

• Completed approved college course that satisfies CSU GE Area A2 (written communication) with a grade of C- or better

Placement in a GE Subarea A2 English Course

• The student has met examination standards and/or multiple measures-informed standards via one of the criteria below:

English CAASPP/EAP Test: 

• Standard Exceeded 
• Standard Met and completed 12th grade approved year-long English course (CSU ERWC, AP, Weighted Honors English) with grade of C- or better 

SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing Test:

•  550 or above 
• 510 – 540 and completed 12th grade approved year-long English course (CSU ERWC, AP, Weighted Honors English) with grade of C- or better English 

ACT Test: 

• 22 or higher
• 19-21 and completed 12th grade approved year-long English course (CSU ERWC, AP, Weighted Honors English) with grade of C- or better

High School Courses and GPA:

• Weighted GPA 3.3 or above
• GPA 3.0 or above and completed approved 12 grade year-long English course (AP, CSU ERWC, Weighted Honors English) 
• GPA 3.0 or above and completed Honors English 
• GPA 3.0 or above and 5 or more years of high school English

Placement in a Supported GE Subarea A2 English Course 
The student has met examination standards and/or multiple measures-informed standards via one of the criteria below:

SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing Test:

• 510 – 540 and 4 or more years of high school English 

ACT Test: 

• 19-21 and 4 or more years of high school English

High School Courses and GPA:

• Weighted GPA 3.0 or above and 4 or more years of high school English

Placement in a Supported GE Subarea A2 English Course and Participation in the Early Start Program Required
Based on multiple measures evaluation, student needs additional academic support including participation in the Supportive Pathways for First-Year Students Program. Visit csustudentsuccess.org to learn about this program.

Assessments and Placement for GE Mathematics/Quantitative Reasoning: Non-Math Intensive Majors (Algebra and Statistics Disciplines, Non-STEM and Undecided Majors)

Has Fulfilled the GE Subarea B4 Math/Quantitative Reasoning Requirement 

The student has met the requirement via completion of one of the following: 

Advanced Placement (AP) Test:

• 3 or above: Calculus AB 
• 3 or above on AP Calculus BC
• 3 or above on AP Statistics
• 3 or above on AP Computer Science Principles 

International Baccalaureate (IB) Test:

• 4 or above on Math Higher Level (HL) 

College Level Examination Program (CLEP): 

• 50 or above on: Calculus, College Algebra, College Algebra-Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus or Trigonometry 

College Transfer Coursework: 

• Completed math/quantitative reasoning college course with a C- or better that satisfies CSU GE Area B4

Placement in a GE Subarea B4 Math/Quantitative Reasoning Requirement 
The student has met examination standards and/or multiple measures-informed standards via one of the following criteria:

CAASPP/EAP Math Exam:

• Standard Exceeded 
• Standard Met and completed 12th grade approved year-long math course beyond Algebra 2 with a C- or better
• Standard Met and 4 or more years of high school math or quantitative reasoning 

SAT Math Test: 

• 570 or above
• 520 – 560 and completed 12th grade approved year-long math course beyond Algebra 2 with a C- or better 

ACT Math Test: 

• 23 or above 
• 20-22 and completed 12th grade approved year-long math course beyond Algebra 2 with a C- or better

High School Courses and GPA: 

• Weighted math GPA 3.0 or above and completed 12th grade approved year-long math course beyond Algebra 2 with a C- or better
• Weighted math GPA 3.0 or above and 5 or more years of high school math or quantitative reasoning
• Weighted high school GPA 3.7 or above 
• Weighted high school GPA 3.5 or above and 4 or more years of high school math or quantitative reasoning

Placement in a Supported GE Subarea B4 Math/ Quantitative Reasoning Requirement 
The student has met examination standards and/or multiple measures- informed standards via one of the criteria below:

High School GPA: 

• Weighted math GPA 3.3 or above 
• Weighted high school GPA 3.0 or above

Placement in a Supported GE Subarea B4 Math/Quantitative Reasoning Requirement and Participation in the Supportive Pathways Program Required 
Based on multiple measures evaluation, student needs additional academic support including participation in the Supportive Pathways for First-Year Students Program. Visit the csustudentsuccess.org to learn about this program.

Assessments and Placement for GE Mathematics/Quantitative Reasoning: Pre-STEM/STEM and Other Math-Intensive Majors
Has Fulfilled the GE Subarea B4 Math/Quantitative Reasoning Requirement 
The student has met the requirement via completion of one of the following: 

Advanced Placement (AP) Test:

• 3 or above on AP Calculus AB  
• 3 or above on AP Calculus BC 
• 3 or above on AP Statistics
• 3 or above on AP Computer Science Principles 

International Baccalaureate (IB) Test: 

• 4 or above on Math Higher Level (HL) 

College Level Examination Program (CLEP):

• 50 or above on: Calculus, College Algebra, College Algebra-Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus or Trigonometry 

College Transfer Coursework: 

• Completed math/quantitative reasoning college course with a C- or better that satisfies CSU GE Area B4

Placement in a GE Subarea B4 Math/Quantitative Reasoning Requirement 
The student has met examination standards and/or multiple measures-informed standards via one of the criteria below:

CAASPP/EAP Math Exam: 

• Standard Exceeded 
• Standard Met and completed 12th grade approved year-long math course beyond Algebra 2 with a C- or better 

New SAT Math Test: 

• 570 or above 
• 520 – 560 and completed 12th grade approved year-long math course beyond Algebra 2 with a C- or better 

ACT Math Test: 

• 23 or above
• 20-22 and completed 12th grade approved year-long math course beyond Algebra 2 with a C- or better 

High School Courses and GPA:

• Weighted math GPA 3.5 or above and completed 12th grade approved year-long math course beyond Algebra 2 with a grade of C- or better
• Weighted math GPA 3.5 or above and 5 or more years of high school math or quantitative reasoning 
• Weighted high school GPA 3.7 or above 

Placement in a Supported GE Subarea B4 Math/Quantitative Reasoning Requirement 
The student has met examination standards and/or multiple measures-informed standards via the criteria below:

High School Math GPA: 

• Weighted math GPA 3.3 or above 

Placement in a Supported GE Subarea B4 Math/Quantitative Reasoning Requirement and Participation in the Supportive Pathways for First-Year Students Program Required 
Based on multiple measures evaluation, student needs additional academic support including participation in the Supportive Pathways for First-Year Students Program. Visit csustudentsuccess.org to learn about this program. 

The goal of the Supportive Pathways for First-Year Students Program (SPFYP) is to:

• Ensure that first-time students successfully complete the General Education (GE) written communication (A2) and math/quantitative reasoning (B4) requirements within their first year.
• Better prepare students in written composition and mathematics/quantitative reasoning before the fall term of freshman year, improving students’ chances of successful completion of a baccalaureate degree. 
• For general information about SPFYP, visit https://csustudentsuccess.org/supportive-pathways. Students are encouraged to visit the university website for SPFYP information once admitted. 
• Eligible financial aid applicants with an Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) of $6,000 or less will be eligible for waiver of the per unit SPFYP fee. For more information on assessments, placements and the Supportive Pathways for First-Year Students Program, please visit www.csustudentsuccess.org

CSU COVID-19 Vaccination Policy

Entering CSU students are required to present proof of the following immunizations to the CSU they will be attending before the beginning of their first term of enrollment.

All individuals who access university/programs must be Fully Vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus, as defined by this policy, subject to the terms and limited Exemptions described in this policy, as well as comply with Other Safety Measures established at each CSU.

Fully Vaccinated for COVID-19 is defined as:

• Having received 2 doses (separated by the appropriate interval) of mRNA (Moderna/Pfizer), Novavax, or WHO-approved vaccine for international students
• Or 1 dose of the J&J/Janssen
• PLUS Moderna or Pfizer booster when eligible

A Student may be exempted from the vaccine requirement in this policy as described below:

Medical Exemption: due to a medical (including mental health) condition for which an Approved Vaccine presents a significant risk of a serious adverse reaction. Any medical exemption must be verified by a certified or qualified licensed healthcare professional.

Religious Exemption: due to either (i) a person’s sincerely held religious belief, observance, or practice, which includes any traditionally recognized religion, or (ii) beliefs, observances, or practices which an individual sincerely holds and that occupy a place of importance in that individual’s life, comparable to that of traditionally recognized religions.

For more information and updates refer to CSUSM As One

CSU Immunization Requirements

Entering CSU students are required to present proof of the following immunizations to the CSU they will be attending before the beginning of their first term of enrollment.

Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR): Two (2) doses with first dose on or after 1st birthday; OR positive titer (laboratory evidence of immunity to disease). If you need further details or have special circumstances, please consult CSUSM Student Health and Counseling Services (760/750-4915; for the deaf: 760/750-4924; or shcs@csusm.edu).

Hepatitis B (Hep B): All new students who will be 18 years of age or younger at the start of their first term at a CSU must provide proof of full immunization against Hepatitis B before enrolling. Full immunization against Hepatitis B consists of three timed doses of vaccine over a minimum 4 to 6 months’ period. If you need further details, please consult CSUSM Student Health and Counseling Services (760/750-4915; for the deaf: 760/750-4924; or shcs@csusm.edu).

Varicella (Chickenpox): Two (2) doses with first dose on or after 1st birthday; OR positive titer (laboratory evidence of immunity to disease) prior to enrollment.

Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap): One (1) dose on/after age 7 years. 

Meningococcal conjugate (Serogroups A, C, Y, & W-135): One (1) dose on or after 16 for all students and age 21 or younger.

Each incoming freshman who will be residing in on-campus housing will be required to return a form indicating that they have received information about meningococcal disease and the availability of the vaccine to prevent contracting the disease and indicating whether or not the student has chosen to receive the vaccination. Students must sign the response form prior to returning it with all housing documents to the campus housing office. If you need further details or have special circumstances, please consult University Village Apartments – 760/750-3711; uva@csusm.edu or The Quad – 760/750-3730; quad@csusm.edu.

The immunization requirements are not admission requirements, but are required of students as conditions of enrollment in CSU. Students can submit their documentation of compliance with the Measles and Rubella and/or Hepatitis B requirement to Student Health and Counseling Services during normal business hours, by faxing the documentation to 760/750-3181, or via email to shcs@csusm.edu. For documentation submitted via fax or email, the documents must include student name, date of birth, student ID number, and student contact phone number. Documentation that is not received prior to priority registration will result in a registration hold. First time freshman who will reside in university housing, must submit their meningococcal disease information form with their housing contract documents to campus housing.

Tuberculosis Screening/Risk Assessment: All incoming students must complete a Tuberculosis risk questionnaire. Incoming students who are at higher risk* for TB infection, as indicated by answering “yes” to any of the screening questions, should undergo either skin of blood testing for TB infection within one year of CSU entry.

*Higher risk include travel or living in South or Central America, Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East; prior positive TB test; or exposure to someone with active TB disease.

The above are not admission requirements, but are required of students as conditions of enrollment in CSU.

Immunization Holds

Enrollment Management Services has the task of placing registration holds on students’ records if documentation of full immunity has not been presented to Student Health and Counseling Services. Holds are placed if proof has not been submitted approximately four weeks prior to the start of priority registration. If a hold is placed on registration, this hold will be lifted if immunization documents are submitted, proof of immunity is submitted, or if the student receives the injection. Holds will be temporarily lifted for one semester for those students who have signed the waiver for exemptions. Students who sign the waiver for exemption, must sign the waiver each semester that they are enrolled. Questions can be directed to Student Health and Counseling Services at (760) 750-4915.

Veterans and Veterans’ Dependents

Many veterans, dependents of deceased or disabled veterans, and reservists are eligible for Department of Veterans Affairs’ education benefits. Additionally, many dependents of deceased or disabled veterans are eligible for a complete waiver of application and most mandatory registration fees through the California Department of Veterans Affairs.

The programs administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs are:

Post 9/11 GI Bill^®. Veterans who served after 9/11 may be eligible to receive all or a portion of this benefit. The benefit will include tuition and fees paid directly to the school, a monthly housing allowance based on the Basic Allowance for Housing for an E-5 with dependents at the location of the school, and an annual books and supplies stipend of $1000 paid proportionately based on enrollment. For more information and instructions on how to apply, visit the GI Bill^® web site at https://benefits.va.gov/gbill/.

VEAP. For veterans who entered active duty between January 1, 1977, and June 30, 1985, and who contributed to the program while on active duty.

Montgomery G.I. Bill^®(Active Duty). For veterans who entered active duty beginning July 1, 1985, and who participated in the twelfth-month pay reduction while on active duty.

Montgomery G.I. Bill^®(Selected Reserve Program). For undergraduates and graduates enlisted in the reserves who have made a six-year commitment to the selected reserves.

Dependents. For spouses or children of veterans who died on active duty, whose death was caused by a service-connected disability, or who are rated 100% permanently disabled by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

California Department of Veterans Affairs

College Fee Waiver Program for Veterans’ Dependents (CALVET). Dependents of deceased or disabled veterans may have all state-mandated tuition and fees waived at Cal State San Marcos. Not included are any campus-based, non-resident, or Extended Education course fees. Those wishing to apply for the College Fee Waiver Program may contact the County of San Diego Veterans Service Office, Tom Splitgerber, County Veterans Service Officer, 5560 Overland Ave., Suite 310, San Diego, CA 92123, or the veterans’ representative in the Veterans Center.

Vocational Rehabilitation. For veterans with a service-connected disability, or who are rated 100% permanently disabled by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Students should be aware that the Veterans Administration will pay educational benefits only for those courses which are part of an approved degree or certificate program, and which have not been previously and successfully completed. Students are required to attend classes regularly and maintain satisfactory grades. For clarification of Veterans Administration policies on withdrawals, incompletes, course repeats, etc., please contact the veterans’ representative located in the Veterans Center.

Students wishing to apply for the programs administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs can obtain an application. Veterans who enroll at CSU San Marcos are encouraged to call or visit the veterans representative in the Veterans Center for instructions prior to signing up for benefits. Dependents of deceased or disabled veterans who wish to apply for the fee waiver program may contact the County of San Diego Veterans Service Office, 5560 Overland Ave., Suite 310, San Diego, CA 92123, or the veterans’ representative in the Veterans Center.

Determination of Residency for Tuition Purposes

University requirements for establishing residency for tuition purposes are independent from those of other types of residency, such as for tax purposes, or other state or institutional residency. These regulations were promulgated not to determine whether a student is a resident or nonresident of California, but rather to determine whether a student should pay university fees on an in-state or out-of-state rate. A resident for tuition purposes is someone who meets the requirements set forth in the Uniform Student Residency Requirements. These laws governing residency for tuition purposes at the California State University are California Education Code sections 68000-68086, 68120-68133, and 89705-89707.5, and California Code of Regulations, Title 5, Subchapter 5, Article 4, sections 41900- 41915. This material can be viewed by accessing the California State University Office of General Counsel website.

Each CSU’s Admissions Office is responsible for determining the residency status of that university’s new and returning students based on the Application for Admission, Residency Questionnaire, and, as necessary, other evidence furnished by the student. A student who fails to submit adequate information to establish eligibility for resident will be classified as a nonresident status.

Residency Requirements

Initial Determination: Eligible Immigration Status, Physical Presence and Intent

A student seeking to pay in-state tuition at a California State University (CSU) as a first-time freshman, transfer, or as a post-baccalaureate/graduate student must have an eligible immigration status to establish residency (see Immigration Information), meet physical presence by the Residence Determination Date, and demonstrate intent to indefinitely remain in the State of California for more than one year immediately preceding the Residence Determination Date. If the student is under the age of 19 (with limited exceptions), the student’s residence status is derived from that of the parent or from that of the legal guardian.

Requirements for Residency for Tuition Purposes

Physical Presence: The student or parent/guardian must be physically present in California for more than one year immediately preceding the Residence Determination Date in which enrollment is contemplated. For example, if a student plans to attend the CSU for the Fall 2022 academic term, and the Residence Determination Date for that term is September 20, 2022, the student must establish physical presence in California no later than September 19, 2021.

Intent: California law stipulates the burden of proof rests with the student, and merely living in California for a year does not support a claim for residency for tuition purposes. The student, or in some cases a parent or legal guardian, must demonstrate intent to remain indefinitely in the state for more than one year immediately preceding the Residence Determination Date (RDD) and sever all residential ties with the former state or country of residence. If the student is under the age of 19, the student’s residence status is derived from that of the parent or legal guardian unless an exception applies. There must be sufficient documentation to demonstrate that intent was established more than one year (a minimum of one year and one day) before the RDD.

Documents must include the student’s name, the student’s California address, and a date at least one year and one day prior or on the RDD for the term. For students under the age of 19, documents must be in the parent or legal guardian’s name unless an exception applies. Also, a parent or legal guardian’s immigration status does not preclude a student from establishing residency; therefore, the parent or legal guardian is not required to provide any immigration documents to demonstrate intent.

Evidence demonstrating intent to remain in the State of California indefinitely may vary from case to case but will include, and is not limited to, the absence of residential ties to any other state, California voter registration and history of actually voting in California elections, maintaining California vehicle registration and driver’s license, maintaining active California bank accounts, filing California income tax returns and listing a California address on federal tax returns, owning residential property or occupying or renting a residence where permanent belongings are kept, maintaining active memberships in California professional or social organizations, and maintaining a permanent military address and home of record in California.

Immigration Information

A student seeking to pay in-state tuition at a California State University (CSU) as a first-time freshman, transfer, or as a post-baccalaureate/graduate student must have an eligible immigration status to establish residency. Therefore, the student must be a United States citizen, a permanent resident (Green Card holder), or hold an eligible visa status (see list). If a student does not qualify as a California resident, the student may be eligible for certain exceptions and exemptions.

Nonimmigrant Statuses and Other Categories that are Eligible to Establish California Residency for Tuition Purposes

The Immigration and Nationality Act allows individuals in certain nonimmigrant statuses to establish permanent residency in the United States. Therefore, they are entitled to establish California residency for tuition purposes. For a complete list of eligible visas and other eligible categories, review the nonimmigrant list. Students must hold an eligible visa status at least one year before the Residence Determination Date (RDD) to be eligible to establish California residency for tuition purposes.

Students in the category of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) or Temporary Protected Status (TPS) are also eligible to establish residency for tuition purposes. Also, students who are adjusting their immigration status, such as asylum, may qualify for residency depending on where they are in the application process.

Most nonimmigrant visa holders, such as an F-1 or J-1 visa holder, are not eligible to establish California residency for tuition purposes. Students with a visa or without an immigration status should contact the university Admissions Office.

Exceptions

Exceptions to the general residency requirements are contained in California Education Code sections 68070-68086 and California Code of Regulations, Title 5, Subchapter 5, Article 4, sections 41906- 41906.6, 41910. Whether an exception applies to a particular student can be determined only after the submission of an application for admission and, as necessary, additional supporting documentation. Because neither the university nor the Chancellor’s Office staff may give legal advice, applicants are strongly urged to review the material for themselves and consult with a legal advisor.

Residency determination dates:

Cal State TEACH:

Reclassification - Financial Independence (applies only to continuing students)  

A student classified as a nonresident for a prior term may seek reclassification in any subsequent term; however, reclassification requires that, in addition to satisfying the requirements of physical presence and intent to remain indefinitely in the state, the student must also satisfy the requirement of financial independence as outlined in Title 5 CCR § 41905.5. To do so, the student must contact the appropriate person in the university admissions office and complete a Residency Questionnaire Form and provide supporting documents.

41905.5. Residence Reclassification - Financial Independence Requirement

• Any nonresident student requesting reclassification to resident for tuition purposes must demonstrate financial independence
• Student has not and will not be claimed as an exemption for state and federal tax purposes by his/her parent in the calendar year the reclassification application is made and in any of the three calendar years prior to the reclassification application
• Student has not and will not receive more than seven hundred fifty dollars ($750) per year in financial assistance from his/her parent in the calendar year the reclassification application is made and in any of the three calendar years prior to the reclassification application
• Student has not lived and will not live for more than six weeks in the home of his/her parent during the calendar year the reclassification application is made and in any of the three calendar years prior to the reclassification application

Note: Students who receive a government scholarship and/or financial assistance should be viewed the same as state and federal financial aid, and athletics grants-is-aid; and should not be counted as parental support.

Effective Fall 2020 academic term, if the student meets at least one of the following criteria, the student does not have to meet the financial independence requirement. Student must provide the university admissions office supporting documents (e.g. state income tax returns, court documents, marriage certificate, military order form) that demonstrate they meet the criteria.

• Dependent on a parent who has California residence for more than one year immediately preceding the residence determination date;
• Enrolled in a graduate or postbaccalaureate program, regardless of age;
• Turned 24 years of age by the residence determination date;
• Married or registered domestic partner as of the residence determination date;
• Active duty members serving in the U.S Armed Forces;
• Veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces;
• Legal dependent other than spouse or registered domestic partner;
• Former ward of the court, foster youth or both parents are deceased;
• Declared by a court to be an emancipated minor; or
• Unaccompanied youth who is homeless or at risk of becoming homeless

Residency Appeals

A student classified as a nonresident may appeal a final university decision within 30 days of notification by the university. Appeals will be accepted only if at least one of the following criteria applies:

1. The decisions was based on:
   1. a significant error of fact by the university;
   2. a significant procedural error by the university; or
   3. an incorrect application of the law which, if corrected would require that the student be reclassified as a California resident; and/or
2. Significant new information, not previously known or available to the student, became available after the date of the university decision classifying the student as a nonresident and based on the new information, the classification as a nonresident is incorrect.

Instructions to submit an appeal and additional information can be found on the California Residency for Tuition Purposes Website.

Appeals via email, fax and U.S. mail will not be accepted. A student with a documented disability who is requesting an accommodation to submit an appeal through the CSU Website should contact Student Affairs and Enrollment Management at residencyappeals@calstate.edu.

The Office of the Chancellor will either decide the appeal or send the matter back to the university for further review.

A student incorrectly classified as a resident or incorrectly granted an exception from nonresident tuition is subject to reclassification as a nonresident or withdrawal of the exception and subject to payment of nonresident tuition in arrears. If incorrect classification results from false or concealed facts, the student may also be subject to discipline pursuant to Section 41301 of Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations. A student previously classified as a resident or previously granted an exception is required to immediately notify the Admissions Office if the student has reason to believe that the student no longer qualifies as a resident or no longer meets the criteria for an exception.

Changes may have been made in the rate of nonresident tuition and in the statutes and regulations governing residency for tuition purposes in California between the time this information is published and the relevant residency determination date. Students are urged to review the statutes and regulations stated above.

Impacted Programs

Office of Admissions and Student Outreach
(760) 750 4848
www.csusm.edu/admissions/how-to-apply/impaction/index.html

The CSU designates programs as impacted when more applications from regularly eligible applicants are received in the initial filing period (October and November for Fall terms, June for Winter terms, August for Spring terms, February for Summer terms) than can be accommodated. Some programs are impacted at every university where they are offered; others are impacted only at a few universities. Candidates for admission must meet all of the campus’ specified supplementary admission criteria if applying to an impacted program or campus.

The CSU will announce during the Fall filing period those campuses or programs that are impacted. Detailed information on university and program impaction is available on the Impaction at the CSU website.

Each university will communicate supplementary admission criteria for all impacted programs to high schools and community colleges in their application service area and will disseminate this information to the public through appropriate media. This information is also published at www.csusm.edu/impaction.

Applicants must file applications for admission to an impacted program during the initial filing period. Applicants who wish to be considered for impacted programs at more than one CSU should file an application at each university for which they seek admissions consideration.

Supplementary Admission Criteria

Each university with impacted programs or  class-level admission categories uses supplementary admission criteria in screening applicants. Supplementary criteria may include rank-ordering of freshman applicants based on the combination of “student’s ‘A-G’” GPA and supplemental factors, or rank-ordering of transfer applicants based on verification of the Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) or Associate in Science Transfer (AS-T) degrees, the overall transfer grade point average (GPA), completion of specified prerequisite courses, and a combination of campus-developed criteria. Applicants for freshman admission to impacted universities or programs may need to have a higher “a-g” GPA. In no case will standardized test scores be utilized in making freshman admission decisions. 

The supplementary admission criteria used by individual CSUs to screen applicants are made available by the universities to all applicants seeking admission to an impacted program.

Evaluation of Academic Records

Transfer Credits

Credit for work completed at regionally accredited institutions, other than coursework identified by such institutions as remedial or in other ways as being nontransferable, will be accepted toward the satisfaction of baccalaureate degree and credential requirements at CSU San Marcos within limitations of residence requirements, community college transfer maximums, and in accordance with directives from Executive Orders and Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations, the CSUSM Academic Senate, and the appropriate academic discipline.

Credit by External Examination

California State University San Marcos awards graduation credit to students who have received a passing score on a standardized external examination, such as Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and College Level Entrance Program (CLEP), in accordance with CSU Executive Order 1036 (Credit for Prior Learning Policy), and as described below.
When a student receives a passing score on an external examination, they receive credit toward graduation, which is recorded on the student’s transcript, and depending on the course, they may also satisfy:

• certain requirements for a major or minor,
• prerequisite requirements for a more advanced course,
• certain General Education and other general graduation requirements.

Graduation Credit

• Every external exam will be articulated with CSUSM courses (to the extent possible) in a manner similar to the articulation of courses taken at another institution for the purpose of satisfying the requirements for a major or minor.

1. If more units are awarded for successful completion of an external exam than for the articulated course, then the excess units are effectively “free elective” units which are applied toward the minimum number (usually, 120) of units required for a bachelor’s degree.
2. If fewer units are awarded for successful completion of an external exam than for the articulated course, then the student need not make up the difference provided that they still meet the minimum unit requirements for a bachelor’s degree and for the number of units in the major exclusive of units used to meet General Education requirements.

• Credit will not be awarded if equivalent degree credit has been previously earned for regular coursework, prior learning, or other instructional processes.
• Credit will not be awarded when course credit has been granted at a level more advanced than that represented by the examination.
• When a student receives credit for passing an external exam, they may not also receive graduation credit for taking the articulated course or a course that is a prerequisite thereto.
• The total number of units granted for external examinations shall not exceed the limit allowed by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

1. There is no additional limit on credits for IB and AP examinations.
2. Credit for all other standardized examinations is limited to a total of 30 units.  

Credit for Experiential Learning

Credit for learning, knowledge, or skills acquired through experience is awarded for a specific course (to the extent possible), recorded on the student’s transcript, and depending on the course, may also satisfy:

• certain requirements for a major or minor.
• prerequisite requirements for a more advanced course.
• certain General Education and other general graduation requirements.

Credit may be awarded for experiential learning that does not directly align with a specific CSU San Marcos course, so long as it aligns with a course offered at another CSU campus. The credit awarded in such cases may be applied to requirements in the same manner as if the course were taken and credit transferred to CSU San Marcos.
Credit for experiential learning shall not be used in determining eligibility for admission, unless it was previously transcribed on the student’s academic record.
The total number of credits for learning, knowledge, or skills acquired through experience shall not exceed the limit allowed by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). (As of Spring 2022, the WSCUC allowed limit is 25% of the credits required for a degree).

Students seeking credit for experiential learning must:

1. be matriculated at CSU San Marcos,
2. have completed 15 units at CSU San Marcos for undergraduates, and 3 units in residence at CSU San Marcos for graduate students, and
3. submit a request for credit through the Office of the Registrar.

Recording of Credit

Credit earned by examination will be identified as such on the student’s permanent record. The name of the examination and the score earned will be included as well.

Hardship Petitions

The campus has established procedures for consideration of qualified applicants who would be faced with extreme hardship if not admitted. Petitioners should write to the Office of Admissions and Student Outreach regarding specific policies governing hardship admission.

Appeal of Admission Decision

Section 89030.7 of the California Education Code requires that the CSU establishes specific requirements for appeal procedures for a denial of admission. Each CSU must publish appeal procedures for applicants denied admission to the University. The procedure is limited to addressing university decisions to deny an applicant admission to the University.

Admissions appeal procedures must address the basis for appeals, provide 15 business days for an applicant to submit an appeal, stipulate a maximum of one appeal per academic term, provide specific contact information for the individual or office to which the appeal should be submitted, and indicate a time estimate for when the university expects to respond to an appeal. The appeal procedures must be included in all denial of admission notifications to students, and must also be published on the university website.

Credit for Non-collegiate Instruction

CSU San Marcos grants undergraduate degree credit for successful completion of non-collegiate instruction, either military or civilian, appropriate to the baccalaureate degree, which has been recommended by the Commission on Educational Credit and Credentials of the American Council on Education. The number of units allowed are those recommended in the Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experience in the Armed Services and the National Guide to Educational Credit for Training Programs. The Office of Admissions and Student Outreach provides students with specific details about individual military credit after evaluation of the documents submitted for admission purposes.

Community College Credit

A maximum of seventy (70) semester units earned in a community college may be applied toward the degree, with the following limitations: (a) no upper-division credit may be allowed for courses taken in a community college; (b) no credit may be allowed for professional courses in education taken in a community college, other than introduction to education courses.

Open University/Special Session Credit

The maximum amount of transferable credit earned through Open University or Special Session programs which may be applied toward the minimum requirements for the bachelor’s degree is twenty-four (24) semester units. This credit does apply toward the 30 units of residence credit required for all undergraduate degrees.

Catalog Rights for Degree Requirements

If a student does not graduate within ten (10) years from the beginning of his/her catalog rights, the major advisor may review all upper-division major courses for applicability.