Admissions

Requirements for admission to CSU Monterey Bay 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 (CSU) website.

Applications

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.

Importance of Filing Complete, Accurate, and Authentic Application

CSUMB 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).

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.  The Financial Aid Office will also use it to report Federal Work Study earnings to the Federal Department of Education.

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 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.

Selection of Major

The majors offered at CSUMB are listed in the Programs and Degrees section of this catalog. You should review these descriptions before filing an application. CSUMB accepts students who are undecided about their major. If undecided, use the undeclared category on the application form.

Impacted Programs

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 which they are offered; others are impacted only at a few universities.

Candidates for admission must meet all of the university’s specified supplementary admission criteria if applying to an impacted program or university.

The CSU will announce during the fall filing period those CSUs 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 will also be published on the CSUMB website and made available at www.calstate.edu.

You must file your application for admission to an impacted program during the initial filing period. If you wish to be considered for impacted programs at more than one CSU, you should file an application at each university for which you seek admission 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.

Graduate and Post-Baccalaurete Application Procedures

All graduate and post-baccalaureate applicants (i.e., doctorate, joint Ph.D. applicants, master’s degree applicants, those seeking educational credentials or certificates and, where permitted, holders of baccalaureate degrees interested in taking courses for personal or professional growth) must file a complete graduate application as described in the graduate and post-baccalaureate admission materials on the Cal State Apply website.

Applicants seeking a second bachelor’s degree must submit the undergraduate application for admission. Applicants who completed undergraduate degree requirements in the preceding term are also required to complete and submit an application and the $70 nonrefundable application fee.

To be assured of initial consideration by more than one CSU, it is necessary to submit separate applications (including fees) to each. All CSU applications must be submitted online via the Cal State Apply website. An acknowledgement will be sent to the applicant when the online application has been submitted.

Application Filing Periods

Not all campuses/programs are open for admission to every term.

Filing Period Duration

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.

Application Acknowledgment

On-time applicants may expect to receive an e-mail acknowledgement from the universities to which they have applied within two to four weeks of filing the application.  The notice may 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.

Hardship Petitions

CSUMB has established procedures for consideration of qualified applicants who would be faced with extreme hardship if not admitted. To petition, you should write to CSUMB Office of Admissions regarding specific policies governing hardship admission. Requests are considered on a case-by-case basis.

California State University, Monterey Bay
Office of Admissions
100 Campus Center
Seaside, CA  93955
Phone: 831-582-3738

Admission Requirements

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 suchs 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 CSU 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.

Provisional Admissions

CSUMB 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 university 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 coursework 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 CSU may rescind admission decisions, cancel financial aid awards, withdraw housing contracts and cancel any university registration for students who are found to be ineligible 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 university, 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 & 1 physical, both must have 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.

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.

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 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 assessment are designed to inform entering freshman of placement in appropriate baccalaureate-level courses based on their skills and needs. First-time freshman 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 Early Start Program. The Early Start Program gives students the opportunity to earn college credit in written communication and mathematics/quantitative reasoning in the summer before their first term.

Assessments and Placement for GE Written Communications Has Fulfilled the GE Subarea 2 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 a 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 a grade of C- or better.
• ACT Test:
  • 22 or higher
  • 19 - 21 and completed 12th grade approved year-long English course (CSU ERWC, AP, Weighted Honors English) with a grade of C- or better.
• High School Courses and GPA:
  • Weighted GPA 3.3 or above
  • GPA 3.0 or above and completed approved 12th grade year-long English course (CSU ERWC, AP, Weighted Honors English) with a grade of C- or better.
  • 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 Early Start Program. Visit the Early Start Page to learn about the Early Start Program.

Assessments and Placement for GE Mathematics/Quantitative Reasoning: Non-Math Intensive Majors (Algebra and Statistics Discipliones, 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: AP Calculus BC
  • 3 or above: AP Statistics
  • 3 or above: 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 year-long approved 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 math GPA 3.7 or above
  • Weighted math 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 Early Start Program Required

Based on multiple measures evaluation, student needs additional academic support including participation in the Early Start Program. Visit the Early Start page to learn about the Early Start 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 the one of the following:

• Advanced Placement (AP) Test:
  • 3 or above: AP Calculus AB
  • 3 or above: AP Calculus BC
  • 3 or above: AP Statistics
  • 3 or above: 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:

• CAASP/EAP Math Exam:
  • Standard Exceeded
  • Standard Met and completed 12th grade approved year-long math course beyond Algebra 2 with a C- or better
• 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 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 of above

Placement in a Supported GE Subarea B4 Math/Quantitative Reasoning Requirement and Participation in the Early Start Program Required

Based on multiple measures evaluation, student needs additional academic support including participation in the Early Start Program. Visit the Early Start page to learn about the Early Start Program.

Test Requirements

Freshman and transfer applicants who have fewer than 60 semester or 90 quarter units of transferable college credit are strongly encouraged to submit scores, unless exempt (see “Eligibility Index”), from either the ACT or the SAT of the College Board. Persons who apply to an impacted program may be required to submit test scores and should take the test no later than November or December. Test scores also are used for advising and placement purposes. Students may contact:

The College Board (SAT)
Registration Unit
Box 6200
Princeton, New Jersey  08541-6200
Phone: (609) 771-7588

ACT Registration Unit
P.O. Box 414
Iowa City, Iowa  52240
Phone: (319) 337-1270

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 sufficient score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Some majors and some campuses may require a higher score.

A few campuses may also use alternative methods of assessing English fluency:

Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), and the International Test of English Proficiency (ITEP). Each campus will posts the tests it accepts on its website and will notify students after they apply about the tests it accepts and when to submit scores.

CSU minimum TOEFL standards are:

Internet: 61 for Undergraduate Students; 80 for Graduate Students

Paper: 500 for Undergraduate Students; 550 for Graduate Students

CSUMB TOEFL code is 1945

International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

CSUMB requires a minimum score of 6 for Undergraduate Students. CSUMB requires a minimum score of 6.5 for Graduate Students.

See International Student Requirements for more information.

Transfer Policies of CSU Campuses

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

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 CSU general education requirements in written communication, oral communication, critical thinking, and quantitative reasoning, e.g., mathematics.

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

CSUMB is an impacted campus. In the California State University system, a campus is designated as “impacted” when the number of applicants received from qualified students exceeds the number of available spaces. Those campuses are permitted to use supplementary admission criteria to screen applications.

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 the 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 over other transfer applicants when applying to a local CSU campus, 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 campus/program or to campuses/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 campus.  For the admissions process, students are responsible for working with their community college counselors to complete verificationof AA-T or AS-T degree progress through the e-Verify process within the established campus deadlines.

Provisional Admission

CSUMB may provisionally or conditionally admit transfer applicants based on their academic preparation and courses planned for completion. The campus will monitor the final terms to ensure that those admitted complete all required courses satisfactorily. If applying to an impacted campus or program, supplemental criteria may also need to be completed. All accepted applicants are required to submit an official transcript of all college level work completed. Campuses may rescind admission for any student who is found to be ineligible 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.

English Language Requirement

All undergraduate applicants whose native 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 on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).  Some majors and some campuses may require a higher score.  A few campuses may also use alternative methods of assessing English fluency: Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic), the International Test of English Proficiency (ITEP).  Each campus will post the tests it accepts on its website and will notify students after they apply about the tests it accepts and when to submit scores.  CSU minimum TOEFL standards are:

Undergraduate:  61-Internet; 500-Paper
Graduate:  80 - Internet; 550- Paper

Graduate & Post-Baccalaureate Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements

Graduate and post-baccalaureate applicants may apply for a degree objective, a credential or certificate objective, or where approved, may have no program objective. Depending on the objective, the CSU will consider an application for admission as follows.

General Requirements - The minimum requirements for admission to graduate and post-baccalaureate studies at a CSU campus are in accordance with university regulations as well as Title 5, Chapter 1, Subchapter 3 of the California Code of Regulations.

Specifically, a student shall, at the time of enrollment:

1. Have completed a four-year college course of study and hold an acceptable baccalaureate degree from an institution accredited by a regional accrediting association, or shall have completed equivalent academic preparation as determined by appropriate campus authorities;
2. Be in good academic standing at the last college or university attended;
3. Have earned a grade point average of at least 2.5 on the last degree completed by the candidate or have attained a grade point average of at least 2.5 in the last 60 semester (90 quarter) units attempted; and
4. Satisfactorily met the professional, personal, scholastic, and other standards for graduate study, including qualifying examinations, as appropriate campus authorities may prescribe. In unusual circumstances, a campus may make exceptions to these criteria.

If you meet the minimum requirements for graduate and post-baccalaureate studies, you may be considered for admission in one of the four following categories:

• Graduate Classified - To pursue a graduate degree, applicants are required to fulfill all of the professional, personal, scholastic, and other standards, including qualifying examinations, prescribed by the campus; or
• Graduate Conditionally Classified - Applicants may be admitted to a graduate degree program in this category if, in the opinion of appropriate campus authority, deficiencies may be remedied by additional preparation; or
• Post-Baccalaureate Classified (e.g. admission to an education credential program) - Persons wishing to enroll in a credential or certificate program, will be required to satisfy additional professional, personal, scholastic, and other standards, including qualifying examinations, prescribed by the campus; or
• Post-Baccalaureate Unclassified - To enroll in undergraduate courses as preparation for advanced degree programs or to enroll in graduate courses for professional or personal growth, applicants must be admitted as post-baccalaureate unclassified students. By meeting the general requirements, applicants are eligible for admission as post-baccalaureate unclassified students. Admission in this status does not constitute admission to, or assurance of consideration for admission to, any graduate degree or credential program. (Most CSU campuses do not offer admission to unclassified post-baccalaureate students).

(These and other CSU admission requirements are subject to change as policies are revised and laws are amended. The CSU website www.calstate.edu and the CSU admissions portal calstate.edu/apply are good sources of the most up-to-date information.)

Programs Leading to Licensure & Credentialing

Admission into programs leading to licensure and credentialing does not guarantee that students will obtain a license or credential. Licensure and credentialing requirements are set by agencies that are not controlled by or affiliated with the CSU and requirements can change at any time. For example, licensure or credentialing requirements can include evidence of the right to work in the United States (e.g., social security number or taxpayer identification number) or successfully passing a criminal background check. Students are responsible for determining whether they can meet licensure or credentialing requirements. The CSU will not refund tuition, fees or any associated costs to students who determine subsequent to admission that they cannot meet licensure or credentialing requirements. Information concerning licensure and credentialing requirements are available from the Department of Education & Leadership.

Graduate and Post-Baccalaureate English Language Requirement

All graduate and post-baccalaureate applicants, regardless of citizenship, whose native language is not English and whose preparatory education was principally in a language other than English must demonstrate competence in English.

If you do not possess a bachelor’s degree from a post-secondary institution where English is the principal language of instruction, you must meet the following minimum scores on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL):

• Internet: 80
• Paper: 550

Our TOEFL code is 1945

Some programs may require a higher score. Several CSU campuses may use alternative methods for assessing fluency in English including Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the International Test of English Proficiency (ITEP).

You must submit official test scores to Office of Admissions, 100 Campus Center, Seaside, CA 93955-8001.

See International Student Requirements for more information.

Post-Baccalaureate Students

Post-baccalaureate students (i.e. those already holding a bachelor’s degree) may pursue a program leading to an additional baccalaureate degree. You should consult with a faculty advisor within your selected academic program to determine whether a second baccalaureate or graduate program best meets your needs.

Students who hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education may be admitted to CSUMB as a post-baccalaureate student if they meet the same admission requirements as graduate applicants, and if they file a graduate application and pay the appropriate fee within the established filing period.

No credit may be applied to your second bachelor’s degree from courses taken for an earlier degree. If you previously took required major courses, you must substitute other appropriate coursework with the approval of the academic program. Also, you may not apply graduate-level (500 or 600) courses toward the requirements for a second bachelor’s degree.

Post-baccalaureate students may not earn minors, and are not considered for university honors. You cannot concurrently pursue a graduate degree objective and a second baccalaureate degree at CSUMB.

International (Foreign)  Student Admission Requirements

The CSU must assess the academic preparation of foreign students. For this purpose, “foreign students” include those who hold U.S. temporary visas as students, exchange visitors, or in other non-immigrant classifications.

The CSU uses separate requirements and application filing dates in the admission of foreign students. Verification of English proficiency (see undergraduate and graduate English language proficiency requirements), financial resources, and academic performance are each important considerations for admission. Academic records from foreign institutions must be on file at least twelve weeks before registration for the first term and, if not in English, must be accompanied by certified English translations.

If you have foreign academic work, you must submit official copies of academic records directly from your school, college, or university along with a certified English translation.

Your academic records should include all of the following:

1. Secondary school records;
2. Yearly records from each college or university attended, indicating the number of hours per semester or per year devoted to each course and the grades received;, and
3. Official documents that confirm awarding of a degree or diploma, with the title and date, if a post-baccalaureate applicant.

All official documents submitted become the property of CSUMB. The university will determine the acceptability of any foreign work.

Health 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 continued enrollment in the CSU. Such insurance must be in amounts as specified by the United States Information Agency (USIA) and NAFSA: Association of International Educators.

Financial Verification

Evidence of sufficient financial support to complete a degree program is required for admission. The amount required is approximately $28,609 per academic year. Fees are subject to change. You must submit the required Affidavit of Financial Support form along with official bank, loan, or sponsor financial documentation.

Academic Major

To be eligible for an F-1 Student Visa, you must pursue a specific degree objective. Please refer to the descriptions of our majors and select a major that fits your educational objectives.

English Proficiency

As an international student applicant, you must demonstrate satisfactory proficiency in English. If you have attended a school where English was the primary language of instruction for at least three years immediately preceding admission to CSUMB or preceding completion of the A2 requirement at a Community College in the United States, you meet this proficiency requirement at CSUMB. For all other students, the following minimum scores on TOEFL or IELTS:

CSUMB’s TOEFL code is 1945.

OR

International English Language Testing System (IELTS):

CSUMB requires a minimum score of 6 on the IELTS for Undergraduate Students. CSUMB requires a minimum score of 6.5 for Graduate Students.

For more information, please visit the international admissions page on our CSUMB.EDU/admissions website.

Other Applicants

High School Students

If still enrolled in high school, you will be considered for enrollment in certain special programs if recommended by the principal and the appropriate campus 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 the right to continued enrollment. For participating programs, contact CSUMB Office of Admissions.

High school students other than those accepted into the above programs may also enroll concurrently in college courses without fee reduction upon approval of parents, high school principal, appropriate CSUMB program directors, and Office of Admissions.

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 he or she meets all of the following conditions:

• Possesses a high school diploma (or has established equivalence through either the General Educational Development or California High School Proficiency examinations).
• Has not been enrolled in college as a full-time student for more than one term during the past five years.
• 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 transfer student and will include an assessment of basic skills in the English language and mathematical computation.

Summer Session Applicants

Although CSUMB is not currently on year-round operation, the campus does offer distinctive summer programs, and housing and food services are available. You can get information regarding summer session from:

Extended Education
CSU Monterey Bay
100 Campus Center
Seaside, CA  93955-8001

extended@csumb.edu ~ CSUMB.EDU/extended

Over-60 Program

Effective Fall 2012, CSUMB is not open for students interested in applying to the Over 60 program.

The CSU has established a program which allows California residents 60 years of age or older to enroll in regular session courses without payment of certain specified fees and with reduction in the amounts of others. If interested in this program, you must be admissible as stipulated in Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations and you shall, at time of enrollment, register after regular students. Students requesting participation in the Over-60 Program must initiate contact with the Office of Admissions office, prior to the start of the term they wish to be considered. Further information is available from:

Office of Admissions
CSU Monterey Bay
100 Campus Center
Seaside, CA  93955-8001

Phone: 831-582-5100 ~ Fax: 831-582-3783 ~ admissions@csumb.edu ~ CSUMB.EDU/admissions

Returning Students

If you are a former CSUMB student who has been absent for two or more semesters and you were not eligible for a Leave of Absence, you must apply for readmission and pay the application fee. You must submit official transcripts of all college work attempted during your absence from the university. Appropriate campus officials will base readmission decisions on a review of your academic status.

Former Students Who Were on Academic Probation

If you were on probation at the end of your last enrollment, you may be readmitted on academic probation provided any work you may have completed elsewhere in the interim is satisfactory. If readmitted on probation, you are subject to such conditions as appropriate university officials may prescribe.

Former Students Who Were Academically Disqualified

If you were a disqualified undergraduate or second baccalaureate degree candidate who has been absent for one or more years, you must apply for readmission and an application fee is charged. Contact Admissions & Records for procedures and documents that must be submitted. Appropriate campus officials will base readmission decisions on a review of your academic status and personal situation. Submit your application as early as possible.

Inter/Intrasystem Enrollment

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 admitted formally 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:

Office of the Registrar
Student Services Building
100 Campus Center
Seaside, CA  93955-8001
Phone: 831-582-5100
Fax: 831-582-3783

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 pre-requisites. Credit earned at the host university is electronically reported to the student’s home university 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.

Residency & Immigration Requirements

Determination of Residency for Tuition Purposes

University requirements for establishing residency for tuition purposes are independent from requirements for establishing residency for other purposes, 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 qualifies to pay university fees at the 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 website.

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

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 Eligible 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 2024 academic term, and the Residence Determination Date for that term is September 20, 2024, the student must establish physical presence in California no later than September 19, 2023.

Eligible Immigration Status

A student seeking to pay in-state tuition at a California State University campus as a first-time freshman, transfer, or 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 (all eligible visas can be found at www.calstate.edu/residency).

Students in the category of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), Humanitarian Parole, 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.

If a student does not qualify as a California resident, the student may be eligible for certain exceptions and exemptions, such as California Nonresident Tuition Exemption, commonly known as AB 540. Nonresident students (including US citizens, permanent residents, and undocumented individuals, including students with a T visa U visa, DACA, Humanitarian Parole (certain countries), Special Immigrant Juvenile, asylum, refugee, or Temporary Protected Status) may be exempted from paying nonresident tuition. Students seeking the AB 540 Exemption must satisfy attendance and graduation/transfer requirements from a California school (e.g., K-12, adult school, and community college).

Residency Determination Dates

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 necessarily 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. For a complete list of acceptable supporting documents, please visit www.calstate.edu/residency under Intent.

Residency Exceptions and Exemptions

Students not classified as California residents for tuition purposes may qualify for an exception or an exemption from payment of nonresident tuition. 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 only be determined 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. 

CalState TEACH operates on a trimester system. The Residency Determination Dates for CalState TEACH are as follows:

• Fall ~ September 20
• Spring ~ January 5
• Summer ~ June 1

Reclassification - Financial Independence (only applies 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.

41905.05 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 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 dolloars ($750) per year in financial assistance from their 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 their 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 aid 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 immediatly preceding the residence determination date;
  • Enrolled in a graduate or post-baccalaureate 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 decision was based on:
   • a significant error of fact by the university;
   • a significant procedural by the university; or
   • an incorrect application of the law which, if corrected would require that the student be reclassified as a California resident; and/or
   • Signifcant 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 California State University (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.

Programs Leading to Licensure and Credentialing

Admission into programs leading to licensure and credentialing does not guarantee that students will obtain a license or credential. Licensure and credentialing requirements are set by agencies that are not controlled by or affiliated with the CSU and requirements can change at any time. For example, licensure or credentialing requirements can include evidence of the right to work in the United States (e.g., social security number or tax payer identification number)or successfully passing a criminal background check. Students are responsible for determining whether they can meet licensure or credentialing requirements. The CSU will not refund tuition, fees, or any associated costs to students who determine subsequent to admission that they cannot meet licensure or credentialing requirements.

Information concerning the regulation is available from:

Office of the Registrar
Student Services Building
100 Campus Center
Seaside, CA  93955-8001
Phone: 831-582-5100

The California State University has not determined whether its programs meet other states’ educational or professional requirements for licensure and certification.  Students enrolled in a California State University program who are planning to pursue licensure or certification in other states are responsible for determining whether they will meet their state’s requirements for licensure or certification.  This disclosure is made pursuant to 34 CFR Section 668.43(a)(5)(v)(C)

Transferring Credit

Transferring Undergraduate Credit

Once you have been admitted to the University, CSUMB Office of Admissions will analyze and record your advanced placement course credit, transfer credit, and other credit for which you may be eligible and will establish a permanent student record for you. This permanent record will eventually include your official transcript of all courses taken at CSUMB and their associated grades. Your student record may also include a recording of additional credit for which you may be eligible by virtue of specific tests and assessments, and a summary record of all transfer credit from previous colleges or universities you may have attended. Transfer credits may be recorded on your Degree Audit where appropriate. For information on how these credits may apply to your degree requirements, contact your specific program.

In accordance with Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations, Section 40409 a maximum of 70 semester credits earned at a community college may be applied toward your undergraduate degree, with the following limitations:

• No upper-division credit may be allowed for courses taken at a community college.
• No credit may be allowed for professional courses in education taken at a community college, other than an introduction to education course.

Advanced Placement Examinations

CSUMB grants credit toward its undergraduate degrees for successful completion of examinations of the Advanced Placement Program of the College Board. If you present scores of three or better, you will be granted up to six semester units of college credit. If you present scores of three or better in approved subjects, you may receive from three to six semester units of college credit for each examination. Submit your official test scores to CSUMB Office of Admissions.

International Baccalaureate Examinations

If you are an International Baccalaureate participant and plan to enroll at CSUMB, you should submit a copy of your official IB transcript when available. You may earn advanced standing credit for passing the International Baccalaureate’s Higher Level examinations with a score of 4, 5, 6, or 7. CSUMB does not award credit for Subsidiary Level passes.

Credit by Examination

You may challenge courses by taking examinations developed at CSUMB, when available. Credit shall be awarded to those who pass them successfully.

Credit for Non-collegiate Instruction

CSUMB grants undergraduate degree credit for successful completion of non-collegiate instruction, either military or civilian, appropriate to the baccalaureate degree, that has been recommended by the Commission on Educational Credit and Credentials of the American Council on Education. The number of credits 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.

Credit for Prior Learning

CSUMB grants units of credit for learning, knowledge, or skills-based experience that has been documented and evaluated according to campus policy. You should be aware, however, that policies for earning credit for prior learning vary from campus to campus in the CSU. Contact CSUMB Office of the Provost for additional information.

Transferring Graduate Credit

You should contact the specific academic program for transfer evaluation of graduate coursework completed prior to admission.

Consistent with policies of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, CSUMB does not award credit for prior experiential learning at the graduate level.

Transcripts

Your final official transcripts must be submitted prior to enrollment to verify that all required coursework has been completed successfully. CSUMB will either rescind provisional admissions, delay admission, or not permit registration or attendance until receipt of final transcripts and admission eligibility can be verified.

All transcripts submitted for admission and transfer credit purposes must be official and sent directly from the originating school or college to Office of Admissions. All records submitted become the property of CSUMB, part of your file, and will not be released. If you do not complete the admission application or enroll, the records will be kept on file for two years.

We suggest that you order a set of transcripts for yourself at the same time that you order transcripts for admission so that you will have them available for advising purposes. Office of Admissions will not provide copies of documents submitted.

If you are a transfer applicant with fewer than 60 transferable semester credits, you must file one complete set of official transcripts from your high school of graduation and ACT or SAT test score results in addition to official transcripts of all college work attempted.

If you are a transfer applicant with 60 or more semester credits of transferable courses, you do not need to file a high school transcript. However, we caution that, if during the evaluation process it is determined that you have earned fewer than 60 semester credits of transferable coursework, processing will stop. You will be notified that your high school transcript and ACT or SAT scores are required, and admission consideration will again be given only at the time we receive these documents.

As an undergraduate transfer applicant, you must file one official transcript from each college in which you have enrolled. This includes special sessions, correspondence, and audited courses, as well as any college in which you enrolled and withdrew without earning credit.

As an applicant to a graduate, postbaccalaureate, or credential program, you must file two official transcripts from each college in which you have enrolled. All college work must be reported.

CSU Immunization Requirements

The CSU Immunization Requirements policy applies to undergraduate and graduate students, students matriculated in self-support degree programs, and K-12 students participating in concurrent enrollment courses entering the California State University (CSU) in or after fall 2023.

Immunization and Screening, Recommendations and Requirements are adopted from the American College Health Association (ACHA) Immunization Recommendations for College Students linked here, and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Immunization & Screening Recommendations for College Students linked here.

See the CSU Immunization Requirements policy for more information regarding additional authorized discretionary requirements, academic program and fieldwork or clinical placement requirements, or immunization access.

NOTE: Any revisions of the CDPH recommendations for colleges and universities as of February 1, each year, will be reflected in CSU recommendations for the subsequent fall academic term.

Exemptions

A student may be exempted from any requirements in this policy as described below:

Medical Exemption: due to a medical 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 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.

Required Immunizations

Hepatitis B (Hep B) - Ages 18 and younger as per California law (HSC sections 120390-120390-7), enrollees who are 18 years of age or younger are required to provide proof of full immunization against the hepatitis B virus prior to enrollment.

Immunization and Screening Recommendations

The CSU recommends that students are current for the immunizations listed below. Immunizations and screening recommendations, and immunization schedules are linked above. Campuses should link to this policy to provide students with detailed immunization and screening recommendations.

Recommended Vaccines to Reduce Outbreaks

1. Influenza Vaccine
2. Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
3. Meningococcal Conjugate (Serogroups A, C, Y, W-135) Vaccine
4. Serogroup B Meningococcal Vaccine
5. Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine
6. Varicella (Chickenpox) Vaccine

Other Vaccines Recommended for Adults

1. Hepatitis A (Hep A) Vaccine
2. Hepatitis B (Hep B) Vaccine - Ages 19 and older
3. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine
4. Pneumococcal Vaccine
5. Polio Vaccine

Recommend Screening

1. Tuberculosis Screen/Risk Assessment (TB)

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

For information about the diseases mentioned above and/or the vaccinations, please contact:

Campus Health Center
100 Campus Center
Seaside, CA  93955-8001
Phone: 831-582-3965
Fax: 831-582-3976

Denial & Appeals

Reservation

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

Appeal of Admission Decision

Section 89030.7 of the California Education Code requires that the CSU establish specific requirements for appeal procedures for a denial of admission. Each CSU campus must publish appeal procedures for applicants denied admission to the University. The procedure is limited to addressing campus 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.

Appeal forms can be found on this website.

Contact

California State University, Monterey Bay
Office of Admissions
Student Services Building
100 Campus Center
Seaside, CA 93955
Email: admissions@csumb.edu
Phone: 831-582-3738
Fax: 831-582-3783

CSUMB.EDU/admissions

Applications calstate.edu/apply