Office of Admissions

Frequently Asked Questions

I Want to Apply
I Have Applied
I Have Been Admitted

I Want to Apply

General Admission Questions
Freshman Admission Questions
Transfer Admission Questions

I Want to Apply - General Admission Questions

1. Who is eligible to apply to SDSU?
2. How do I apply for admission? Can I submit a paper application?
3. How do I start the CSUMentor application?
4. When can I apply for admission?
5. How much is the application fee? How do I pay it?
6. Is it better to apply early? If I do, will I hear back earlier?
7. Whom should I contact when I have questions about the application process?
8. How do I apply for readmission?
9. What is SDSU’s service area?
10. My dad is an SDSU alum. Will this help me get admitted?
11. What is the admitted student profile? What is the average high school GPA and SAT/ACT score?
12. How do I know if I am considered a California resident?
13. When do I need to send my transcripts? Should I send them with my application?
14. Does SDSU accept out-of-state students? For out-of-state students, is there a benefit (or quota) from one geographic area over another?
15. How do I fill out the supplemental application required for the nursing program?
16. How can I enroll for summer session?
17. Am I considered an international student? I was born outside of the United States and much or all of my education was outside the U.S., but now I am a permanent resident or citizen of the U.S.
18. Do I have a better chance of being admitted as an undeclared major? Or one major over another?
19. I was a previous student. Am I a freshman or transfer? How do I find out what I need left to transfer or if I’m eligible?
20. I would like to take classes at SDSU but I don’t see a degree program I like at this time. Can I still take some classes?
21. I want to pursue a double major. Where do I declare that on the application?
22. I want to pursue a minor. Where do I declare that on the application?
23. Can I apply if I have earned a GED?
24. Do you have admission information available in Spanish?

I Want to Apply - General Admission Questions and Answers

1. Who is eligible to apply to SDSU?
   
   Only first-time freshmen, upper-division transfer students and readmit students are eligible to apply. A first-time freshman is a student who has earned no college credit after the summer immediately following high school graduation. Students with 60 transferable semester units (90 quarter units) or more are considered upper-division transfers. Lower-division (less than 60 units) transfer applicants are not eligible to apply. A readmit student is one who previously attended SDSU and left in good academic standing, or was academically or administratively disqualified.
   
   
2. How do I apply for admission? Can I submit a paper application?
   
   SDSU uses the California State University admission application available through the CSUMentor Web site. An application filing fee must accompany your application. There is a separate application for undergraduate, graduate/post-baccalaureate and International admissions. SDSU’s preferred method to apply is to use the online application. If you cannot apply online, you should contact the SDSU Office of Admissions at (619) 594-6336 or admissions@sdsu.edu to make special arrangements to apply electronically with campus assistance.
   
   
3. How do I start the CSUMentor application?
   
   To begin the CSUMentor online application, log on to www.CSUMentor.edu and select Apply Online from the menu. Select the Undergraduate Admission Applications link and follow the on-screen instructions. You will be directed to create a free CSUMentor account, which will give you access to the application portion of the site. If you need additional assistance navigating the application, view the CSUMentor online application help tutorial at any time during the application.
   
   
4. When can I apply for admission?
   
   CSU undergraduate applications will be accepted only during the fall 2009 filing period, which is October 1 – November 30, 2008. SDSU recommends that you apply as early as possible since no late applications will be accepted. It is very important that you thoroughly and accurately complete the information requested. Offers of admission will be rescinded if SDSU criteria are not met after the final review of transcripts. SDSU may request additional information prior to making an admission decision.
   
   
5. How much is the application fee? How do I pay it?
   
   The fee to submit the CSUMentor online application is $60. The preferred method of payment is through CSUMentor at the time of application. A check or money order may also be sent to the SDSU Cashier’s Office. California residents who are unable to pay the application fee may apply for a fee waiver through CSUMentor. Applicants will be notified if they do not qualify for the fee waiver as soon as the application is submitted. Please note that an application will not be processed if the application fee is not received.
   
   
6. Is it better to apply early? If I do, will I hear back earlier?
   
   There is no guaranteed benefit to applying earlier. All applications are reviewed equally and thoroughly. SDSU makes every effort to notify students quickly after decisions have been made, usually between January and March for fall admission.
   
   
7. Whom should I contact when I have questions about the application process?
   
   Applicants should contact the SDSU Office of Admissions/Prospective Student Center at (619) 594-6336, admissions@sdsu.edu or in person at the Student Services West building location on campus.
   
   
8. How do I apply for readmission?
   
   Students applying for readmission to SDSU should visit the SDSU Office of Admissions Web site for the most up-to-date admission criteria. Criteria differ for students who left SDSU in good academic standing versus those who left on academic probation or who were academically disqualified.
   
   
9. What is SDSU’s service area?
   
   SDSU’s local service area includes all high schools located south of State Route 56 in San Diego County and all high schools in Imperial County. The following San Diego community colleges are also included in the service-area designation: Cuyamaca College, Grossmont College, Imperial Valley College, San Diego City College, San Diego Mesa College, San Diego Miramar College, and Southwestern Community College.
   
   
10. My dad is an SDSU alum. Will this help me get admitted?
    
    All admission decisions are based on completion of admissions criteria and ranking. No other information is used in the decision-making process.
    
    
11. What is the admitted student profile? What is the average high school GPA and SAT/ACT score?
    
    For fall 2008, the average eligibility index of admitted freshmen who met the selective criteria was 4,182 (1,009 if based on ACT). The average high school grade point average was 3.77. The average SAT score was 1,165 on the Math and Critical Reading section; the average ACT composite score was 25. Admitted transfers averaged a 3.20 GPA. The admitted student profiles can vary from year to year depending on the applicant pool for each particular semester.
    
    
12. How do I know if I am considered a California resident?
    
    To be eligible for resident classification, a student, who on the residency determination date is 19 years of age or older, must have established and maintained permanent residence in California at least one year prior to the residence determination date. Residency determination of minor students (a student who on the residency determination date is under the age of 19) and applicants is based on the residency status of their parents. Proof of residence requires evidence of both physical presence and intent to remain indefinitely in California at least one year before the residence determination date. The SDSU residence determination dates are September 20 and January 25 each year. In addition, other rules and exceptions apply and can be found on the SDSU Office of the Registrar Web site.
    
    
13. When do I need to send my transcripts? Should I send them with my application?
    
    For fall admission, you should NOT send transcripts until you are admitted to SDSU. Applicants must ask that official transcripts be sent directly to the SDSU Office of Admissions from your high school and/or college. Transcripts cannot be submitted with the CSUMentor online application. For fall 2009 admission, transcripts reflecting fall 2008 grades must be sent by May 1, 2009.
    
    
14. Does SDSU accept out-of-state students? For out-of-state students, is there a benefit (or quota) from one geographic area over another?
    
    SDSU welcomes out-of-state applicants. There is no benefit from being in one geographic area over another. All applicants are rated using the outside service-area eligibility criteria as stated on the SDSU Office of Admissions Web site.
    
    
15. How do I fill out the supplemental application required for the nursing program?
    
    Upper-division transfer applicants to the School of Nursing are required to complete a separate admission application. Visit the SDSU Department of Nursing for specific instructions regarding the supplemental nursing application.
    
    
16. How can I enroll for summer session?
    
    For information on summer session, contact the SDSU Office of Admissions at (619) 594-6336 or admissions@sdsu.edu
    
    
17. Am I considered an international student? I was born outside of the United States and much or all of my education was outside the U.S., but now I am a permanent resident or citizen of the U.S.
    
    An international applicant is one who holds an F-1 or J-1 visa and should apply using the International application. Students with other types of visas or who attended school outside of the country are not considered international students and should file the regular undergraduate admission application. Applicants with education in a foreign country must submit official certificates and detailed transcripts with their application for admission. International students should visit the SDSU International Student Center Web site for application information.
    
    
18. Do I have a better chance of being admitted as an undeclared major? Or one major over another?
    
    There is no advantage to applying as undeclared or in one major over another. Applicants seeking admittance into popular, or impacted, majors are admitted as premajors and must fulfill a certain list of requirements set by the department before moving into the major. Transfer applicants cannot apply for admission as an undeclared major.
    
    
19. I was a previous student. Am I a freshman or transfer? How do I find out what I need left to transfer or if I’m eligible?
    
    Students applying for readmission to SDSU cannot apply as a freshman. All readmission applicants should read the specific readmission criteria for the most up-to-date readmission criteria.
    
    
20. I would like to take classes at SDSU but I don’t see a degree program I like at this time. Can I still take some classes?
    
    Yes. High school graduates, working adults, and students from other universities can attend regular SDSU classes through Open University. Visit the SDSU College of Extended Studies Web site for Open University enrollment information
    
    
21. I want to pursue a double major. Where do I declare that on the application?
    
    Undergraduate students may apply to only one program at a time. You may declare your double major once you have been admitted. To do so, you will need to complete a Declaration of Major or Minor form at the SDSU Office of the Registrar and obtain department approval. If you declare a second major in an impacted program, you will need to fulfill the impaction criteria set by the department before being admitted to that major.
    
    
22. I want to pursue a minor. Where do I declare that on the application?
    You may declare a minor once you have been admitted. To do so, you will need to complete a Declaration of Major or Minor form at the SDSU Office of the Registrar.
    
    
23. Can I apply if I have earned a GED?
    
    Yes. Students who are not high school graduates may satisfy the high school graduation requirement by submitting the California Certificate of Proficiency or the General Educational Development (GED) certificate or equivalent certificates awarded by other states. A "pass" on the California Certificate of Proficiency Examination is considered equivalent to graduation from high school. An applicant submitting scores on the GED has established high school graduation equivalence if the average score for the five tests is 45 or better and each score is at least 40 for GED tests taken through 2001. After 2001, students need a minimum score of 451 or greater. Applicants with a GED are still expected to meet the 15-unit college preparatory subject requirements, the eligibility index based on appropriate courses completed after ninth grade, and have competitive scores on the College Board’s Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) or the ACT.
    
    
24. Do you have admission information available in Spanish?
    
    Yes. Admission information is available in Spanish.

I Want to Apply - Freshman Admission Questions

1. What are the minimum freshmen requirements to apply for admission?
2. I am not sure of my major yet. Do I need one to be admitted?
3. How do I calculate my college prep GPA?
4. What does SDSU look for in making freshman admissions decisions? Does SDSU consider extra-curricular activities, letters of recommendation or personal statements?
5. What is the eligibility index and how do I calculate my eligibility index score?
6. Do I need to take the SAT or ACT to apply? What is the minimum SAT or ACT score I need?
7. When is the latest date I can take the SAT and still apply?
8. Does SDSU accept Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate credits?
9. I am a high school student taking a class at a community college. Do I have to submit a separate transcript if my high school is posting the grade on my high school transcript?
10. Do you have freshman admission information in a format that I can easily print?
11. How should freshmen applicants attending a high school on a trimester or block schedule complete the application form with college preparatory courses?

I Want to Apply - Freshmen Admission Questions and Answers

1. What are the minimum freshmen requirements to apply for admission?
   
   As a first-time freshman applicant, you must complete, with grades of “C” or higher, the 15-unit comprehensive A-G pattern of college preparatory courses. You must also take and submit your electronic scores for the College Board’s Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) or the ACT. Your grade point average in the college preparatory classes taken in the 10th-12th grade and scores on the SAT/ACT will be used to make admission decisions.
   
   
2. I am not sure of my major yet. Do I need one to be admitted?
   
   Freshmen applicants do not need to have a declared major in order to apply. SDSU Career Services offers students many services and resources to help in selecting a major.
   
   
3. How do I calculate my college prep GPA?
   
   All grades earned in the 15-unit comprehensive A-G pattern of college preparatory courses taken in 10th-12th grades are used to calculate your grade point average. Honors points for grades of “A,” “B” and “C” will be awarded for a maximum of eight semester courses taken in 11th and 12th grades, including up to two IB or AP courses, or honors courses with 11th or 12th grade content taken in 10th grade. Use CSUMentor’s online GPA calculator to help determine your GPA.
   
   
4. What does SDSU look for in making freshman admissions decisions? Does SDSU consider extra-curricular activities, letters of recommendation or personal statements?
   
   Freshman applicants are ranked using an eligibility index which is based on a combination of the grade point average and scores on either the College Board’s Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) or the ACT. SDSU does not accept letters of recommendation or a personal statement during the undergraduate application process.
   
   
5. What is the eligibility index and how do I calculate my eligibility index score?
   
   The eligibility index is the combination of your high school grade point average and scores on either the College Board’s Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)or the ACT. You can calculate your eligibility index by multiplying your CSU grade point average by 800 and adding your combined critical reading and math scores on the SAT I Reasoning Test. Or, if you took the ACT, multiply your grade point average by 200 and add ten times the composite score from the ACT. SDSU’s eligibility index calculator can help determine your score.
   
   
6. Do I need to take the SAT or ACT to apply? What is the minimum SAT or ACT score I need?
   
   All freshmen applicants are required to take either the College Board’s Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) or the ACT by November 2008. There is no minimum SAT or ACT score required for admission. Freshman applicants are ranked using the CSU eligibility index which combines the grade point average and SAT/ACT test scores. For fall 2008, the average SAT score of admitted freshmen who met the selective criteria was 1,165; the average ACT composite score was 25.
   
   
7. When is the latest date I can take the SAT and still apply?
   
   If you are applying for fall 2009 admission, November 2008 is the last month to take the College Board’s Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) or the ACT . Make sure you indicate SDSU as a destination for your scores when you take the test. SDSU code for the SAT: 4682. SDSU code for the ACT: 0398.
   
   
8. Does SDSU accept Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate credits?
   
   SDSU grants credit for passing scores on The College Board’s Advanced Placement (AP) examinations, on certain tests in the College-Level Examination Program, and on higher level subjects in the International Baccalaureate program. SDSU also grants credit for locally administered “credit by examination” tests. A maximum of 30 units will be allowed for credit earned through examination (excluding Advanced Placement). AP exam reports and passing scores are required in order to obtain college credit for AP high school courses taken. Additional details in each case are outlined in the University Policies section of the SDSU General Catalog.
   
   
9. I am a high school student taking a class at a community college. Do I have to submit a separate transcript if my high school is posting the grade on my high school transcript?
   
   College courses listed on high school transcripts will not be considered official. A separate, official college transcript must be sent for any type of college course taken during high school. You must request that official transcripts, bearing the college letterhead, be sent directly to SDSU’s Office of Admissions electronically or in a sealed envelope. Electronic transcripts are required for courses taken at San Diego service-area community colleges.
   
   
10. Do you have freshman admission information in a format that I can easily print?
    
    Yes. Download the Freshman Admission Fact Sheet or the Freshman Out-of-State Admission Fact Sheet or select the “print this page” button on the desired pages of the Office of Admissions Web site. The Web pages have been formatted to print easily and efficiently.
    
    
11. How should freshmen applicants attending a high school on a trimester or block schedule complete the application form with college preparatory courses?
    
    Students who are attending a trimester-based high school should use the fall, spring and summer columns to record grades earned in the three trimesters. The CSUMentor online application provides additional instructions for entering grades. If your high school uses a block system where a full-year course is completed in one-half of a school year, list the course name once and final grade earned twice (one grade goes in the fall semester slot and the same grade goes in the spring semester slot, regardless of the term the grade was actually earned). Entering block-based grades this way allows the application system to recognize one year of credit for the block course completed.
    
    

I Want to Apply - Transfer Admission Questions

1. What are the requirements if I want to transfer to SDSU?
2. What does SDSU look for in making transfer admissions decisions? Are extra-curricular activities, letters of recommendation or personal statements considered?
3. Do you accept transfer students for the spring semester?
4. I have completed my associate’s degree. Have I met CSU General Education and transfer admission requirements?
5. Do transfer applicants need to take the SAT or ACT to apply?
6. I am not sure of my major yet. Do I need one to be admitted?
7. Is it true that some transfers have guaranteed admission?
8. How do I know which classes will transfer to SDSU?
9. Can I pick and choose which units to transfer?
10. What is the maximum number of units I can have to get accepted?
11. When I apply, must I report all the colleges I attended and ask that each transcript be sent to SDSU?
12. If I get a “D” in a college-level course, will I get transfer credit for it?
13. Why do transfer students need to submit high school transcripts?
14. Do you have transfer admission information in a format that I can easily print?
15. Can I use summer courses to complete the transfer admission requirements?

I Want to Apply - Transfer Admission Questions and Answers

1. What are the requirements if I want to transfer to SDSU?
   
   All transfer applicants must:
   (a) Complete a minimum of 60 transferable semester units by the end of spring 2009;
   (b) Complete General Education requirements in written communication, oral communication, critical thinking, and mathematics with a “C” or higher in each course by the end of spring 2009; and
   (c) Meet the required grade point average for the major to which you apply.
   
   Impacted majors require specific GPAs and non-impacted majors require a 2.0 GPA. The required GPA must be met at the time of application and must be maintained through the end of spring 2009. Applicants who meet the criteria listed above will be ranked based on the completion of lower division General Education course work and preparation for the major. Out-of-service area applicants will be selected based on a GPA ranking that may be higher than the major GPA. For fall 2008, the average admitted transfer GPA was 3.20.
   
   
2. What does SDSU look for in making transfer admissions decisions? Are extra-curricular activities, letters of recommendation or personal statements considered?
   
   Transfer applicants are ranked based on completion of lower division General Education coursework and preparation for the major. In addition to the CSUMentor application, all transfers must also submit an online supplemental application through the SDSU WebPortal. The supplemental application will ask you additional information regarding your grade point average and courses planned for spring 2009. The supplemental application filing period is from October 1, 2008 to January 22, 2009. SDSU does not accept letters of recommendation or a personal statement during the undergraduate application process.
   
   
3. Do you accept transfer students for the spring semester?
   
   The decision to open the spring semester for admission is made on a year-to-year basis. Generally when the spring semester is open, it is only open to students seeking readmission to SDSU and upper division transfer students from within the SDSU service area. Service area applicants must have already earned at least 50% of their course work at colleges or universities that are located south of state route 56 and extending eastward in San Diego County and Imperial County at the time of application. SDSU's main campus is not accepting transfer undergraduate applications for spring 2009.
   
   
4. I have completed my associate’s degree. Have I met CSU General Education and transfer admission requirements?
   
   Requirements for an associate’s degree vary from community college to community college. Therefore, it is not always true that you will have completed our admissions requirements by completing the associate’s degree.
   
   
5. Do transfer applicants need to take the SAT or ACT to apply?
   
   No. Only freshmen applicants are required to take and submit scores for the College Board’s Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) or the ACT.
   
   
6. I am not sure of my major yet. Do I need one to be admitted?
   
   Transfer students must declare a major in the admission application. Transfer applicants are ranked based on the completion of lower division General Education course work and preparation for the major.
   
   
7. Is it true that some transfers have guaranteed admission?
   
   Through the SDSU Transfer Admission Guarantee, transfer applicants from SDSU service-area community colleges are guaranteed admission to the university provided that the guaranteed transfer admission criteria have been met.
   
   
8. How do I know which classes will transfer to SDSU?
   
   For information about how transfer course credits can be used to meet SDSU General Education and major preparation courses requirements, use SDSU’s Transfer Admission Planner (TAP) or ASSIST. TAP includes course equivalency information for colleges and universities throughout the United States. ASSIST is the official repository of articulation for California’s public colleges and universities.
   
   
9. Can I pick and choose which units to transfer?
   
   No. All courses that satisfy SDSU admission and major course requirements will be transferred for credit in the corresponding areas. However, no more than 70 units from community college transfer coursework will apply toward your bachelor’s degree unit total. Students transferring from a four-year university may earn credit for more than 70 units.
   
   
10. What is the maximum number of units I can have to get accepted?
    
    SDSU transfer applicants must have at least 60 units. There is no maximum number. However, if admitted, a maximum of 70 units from community college transfer coursework will apply toward your bachelor’s degree unit total, 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 an introduction to education course. Students transferring from a four-year university may earn credit for more than 70 units.
    
    
11. When I apply, must I report all the colleges I attended and ask that each transcript be sent to SDSU?
    
    Yes. You must report all institutions you have ever attended, including courses taken through extension, correspondence, summer school, study abroad, even if no courses were completed. You should NOT send transcripts until you are admitted to SDSU. You must file official transcripts with the SDSU Office of Admissions from each college attended.
    
    
12. If I get a “D” in a college-level course, will I get transfer credit for it?
    
    Yes. You will receive transfer credit for a “D” grade. However, you must maintain the grade point average reported on your application and complete all reported in-progress or planned courses with grades of “C” or higher (some impacted majors require grades higher than “C” in specific major preparation courses). If you receive a grade of “D” or “F” during this academic year, or if your GPA drops below what you reported on your application, any offer of admission may be withdrawn.
    
    
13. Why do transfer students need to submit high school transcripts?
    
    The SDSU Office of Admissions needs transfer applicants’ high school transcripts to verify the high school graduation date as well as determine if the student has satisfied the language requirement with coursework completed in high school.
    
    
14. Do you have transfer admission information in a format that I can easily print?
    
    Yes. Download the Transfer Admissions Fact Sheet and Tips for Transfers or select the “print this page” button on the desired pages on the SDSU Office of Admissions Web site. The Web pages have been formatted to print easily and efficiently.
    
    
15. Can I use summer courses to complete the transfer admission requirements?
    
    For fall admission, all required courses must be completed in the spring semester and those grades must be included on the final official transcripts that are sent to the SDSU Office of Admissions by the end of June. For spring admission, summer courses can be used to complete transfer admission requirements as long as official transcripts reflecting those grades are sent to the SDSU Office of Admissions.

I Have Applied

General Admission Questions
Freshman Admission Questions
Transfer Admission Questions

I Have Applied - General Admission Questions

1. How can I check the status of my application?
2. When do I need to send my transcripts? Should I send them with my application?
3. When will I know if I’ve been admitted?
4. What is early notification?
5. What happens if I don’t pass a class that I need to meet an admission requirement?
6. Do you offer pre-admission advising?
7. What is the admitted student profile? What is the average GPA, and SAT/ACT score?
8. What do I need to gain residency?

I Have Applied - General Admission Questions and Answers

1. How can I check the status of my application?
   
   Applicants can check their application status by logging on to the SDSU WebPortal at www.sdsu.edu/portal using your RedID number, and clicking on the “Admission Status” option. Official notification of admission is through the “Admission Status” in the WebPortal and through a letter mailed to address on file on your WebPortal account. Make sure to update your contact information if your postal or e-mail address changes.
   
   
2. When do I need to send my transcripts? Should I send them with my application?
   
   For fall admission, you should NOT send transcripts until you are admitted to SDSU. Applicants must ask that official transcripts be sent directly to the SDSU Office of Admissions from your high school and/or college. Transcripts cannot be submitted with the CSUMentor online application. For fall 2008 admission, transcripts reflecting fall 2007 grades must be sent by May 1, 2008.
   
   For spring admission, transcripts are required once you apply to SDSU. Applicants must ask that official transcripts be sent directly to the SDSU Office of Admissions from your high school and/or college. Transcripts cannot be submitted with the CSUMentor online application. Final spring 2008 transcripts are due January 15, 2008.
   
   
3. When will I know if I’ve been admitted?
   
   Fall undergraduates accepted for admission to SDSU will be notified between January and March. Spring undergraduates accepted for admission will be notified between October and November. Applicants will receive official notification of admission through the “Admission Status” in the WebPortal and through and a letter mailed to address on file on your SDSU WebPortal account. Make sure to update your contact information if your postal or e-mail address changes.
   
   
4. What is early notification?
   
   SDSU may offer early notification of admission to first-time freshman applicants who report an exceptional high school record and test scores. Early notification is made in December.
   
   
5. What happens if I don’t pass a class that I need to meet an admission requirement?
   
   Admission decisions are based on self-reported information from your application. The SDSU Office of Admissions will verify your reported information upon receiving your official transcripts and test scores. All courses required for admission must be passed with an acceptable grade and you must also maintain the GPA reported on your application. If you have not met our requirements as expected, SDSU may withdraw the offer of admission.
   
   
6. Do you offer pre-admission advising?
   
   No. Academic advising is available to admitted students only. SDSU holds New Student Orientation before the fall and spring semesters where admitted students receive academic planning and course registration assistance. At orientation, students meet with the adviser in their major to learn the important courses and requirements needed to move into upper division coursework. Freshmen receive a personal information sheet that shows what classes they need, as well as a four-year Major Academic Plan (MAP) of required courses. Transfers receive a preliminary degree evaluation that shows how their courses will transfer to SDSU.
   
   
7. What is the admitted student profile? What is the average GPA, and SAT/ACT score?
   
   For fall 2007, the average eligibility index of admitted freshmen who met the selective criteria was 4,030 (972 if based on ACT). The average high school grade point average was 3.63. The average SAT score was 1,128; the average ACT composite score was 24. Admitted transfer students averaged a 3.12 GPA.
   
   
8. What do I need to gain residency?
   
   To be eligible for resident classification, an adult applicant (a student who is 19 years of age or older on the residency determination date) must have established and maintained permanent residence in California at least one year prior to the residence determination date. Residency determination of minor students (a student who is under the age of 19 on the residency determination date) and applicants is based on the residency status of their parents. Proof of residence requires evidence of both physical presence and intent to remain indefinitely in California at least one year before the residence determination date. In addition, other rules and exceptions apply. The SDSU residence determination dates are September 20 for fall and January 25 for spring each year. More information can be found on the SDSU Office of the Registrar Web site.
   
   

I Have Applied - Freshman Admission Questions and Answers

1. I just submitted my application – now what?
   
   Over the next few months, SDSU will be reviewing each application and making initial admission decisions based on the information you reported on your application and the academic qualifications of the applicant pool. In the meantime, you should create your SDSU WebPortal account so that you can check your admission status periodically and keep your e-mail, mailing address and telephone number(s) updated. Your WebPortal account can be set up when you receive your Red ID from SDSU. Your Red ID is in the e-mail you receive from SDSU within three days of appling on CSUMentor.
   
   

I Have Applied - Transfer Admission Questions and Answers

1. I just submitted my application – now what?
   
   After submitting the CSUMentor application, all transfer applicants must complete the SDSU supplemental application that can be accessed through the SDSU WebPortal once you have created your Portal account. Your WebPortal account can be set up when you receive your Red ID from SDSU. Your Red ID is in the e-mail you receive from SDSU within three days of appling on CSUMentor. On the supplemental application, you will be asked to provide information about courses you have completed to satisfy General Education and preparation for the major requirements, and to update your grade point average to include fall grades and the number of transferable units you will have completed or will complete by the end of the spring term. The last date to submit the supplemental application is January 23, 2008. Additionally you can use the WebPortal to check your admission status periodically and keep your e-mail address, updated.
   
   

I Have Been Admitted

General Admission Questions
Freshman Admission Questions
Transfer Admission Questions

I Have Been Admitted - General Questions

1. How do I let SDSU know I plan to attend?
2. When do I need to send my final transcripts?
3. How long does it take to process transcripts?
4. While in high school, I was concurrently enrolled in a college course. Do I need to have the college provide a transcript even though the course grade appears on my high school transcript?
5. Do I still have to submit college transcripts if the courses I took were not academic courses?
6. I attended two different high schools. Do I need to provide transcripts from both schools?
7. Why am I admitted as a premajor? What does it mean to be in the premajor?
8. May I defer my admittance to another term?
9. What immunization shots are required?
10. What do I need to gain residency?
11. How can I register for New Student Orientation?
12. What happens if I don’t pass a class that I need as an admission requirement?
13. Do I have to take any placement exams?
14. How does registration work?
15. How does attending New Student Orientation affect my registration date?
16. How do I know which classes to take?
17. What is the TOEFL and why do I need to take it?
18. Now that I’ve been admitted, how can I declare my double major or my minor?
19. I applied in one major, but I’ve changed my mind. How do I change my major?
20. Is it possible to get the classes I want/need and graduate in 4 years?
21. How can I appeal my application status?

I Have Been Admitted - General Questions and Answers

1. How do I let SDSU know I plan to attend?

To accept your offer of admission and reserve your place in the fall 2008 class, you must submit the Intent to Enroll $250 deposit through the WebPortal and you must submit your official transcripts and test scores to the SDSU Office of Admissions no later than May 1, 2008. If all of the items are not sent by May 1, 2008 it will be assumed that you do not plan to attend SDSU, and your space will be made available to another applicant.


2. When do I need to send my final transcripts?

If you are admitted, you will be asked to submit an Intent to Enroll $250 deposit and official copies of your test scores and transcripts with fall 2007 grades by May 1, 2008. Freshmen also need to submit transcripts reflecting spring term grades separately by July 15, 2008. Transfers need to submit transcripts reflecting spring term grades by June 30, 2008.


3. How long does it take to process transcripts?

It typically takes 10-14 days to process transcripts and post the information to the WebPortal.


4. While in high school, I was concurrently enrolled in a college course. Do I need to have the college provide a transcript even though the course grade appears on my high school transcript?

Yes. College courses listed on high school transcripts will not be considered official. A separate college transcript must be sent for any type of college course taken during high school.


5. Do I still have to submit college transcripts if the courses I took were not academic courses?

Yes. Official transcripts are required from all high schools and colleges you previously attended even if you withdrew from the course(s) or the course(s) were non-academic or not applicable to your college major.


6. I attended two different high schools. Do I need to provide transcripts from both schools?

Yes. Official transcripts are required from all high schools and colleges you previously attended even if you withdrew from the course(s) or the course(s) were non-academic or not applicable to your college major.


7. Why am I admitted as a premajor? What does it mean to be in the premajor?

Many SDSU majors are designated as impacted, meaning they have more students wanting to declare that major than can be accommodated. A list of impacted majors is available on the SDSU Office of Advising and Evaluations Web site. At the time of admission to the university, each undergraduate student is assigned to a premajor or major field or curriculum, or is designated as an undeclared major.


8. May I defer my admittance to another term?

No. Offers of admission are only for the term you applied for in the CSUMentor application.


9. What immunization shots are required?

SDSU requires all students show proof of immunization against or immunity to measles, rubella and hepatitis B. Specifically, all new and readmitted students born on or after January 1, 1957 are required to show proof of immunization against or immunity to measles (Rubeola) and rubella (German Measles) within their first semester. First-time enrollees age 18 and under are also required to show proof of immunization against or immunity to hepatitis B within their first semester. For additional information, call (619) 594-HEALTH (4325) or visit the Student Health Services Web site.


10. What do I need to gain residency?

To be eligible for resident classification, an adult applicant (a student who is 19 years of age or older on the residency determination date) must have established and maintained permanent residence in California at least one year prior to the residence determination date. Residency determination of minor students (a student who is under the age of 19 on the residency determination date) and applicants is based on the residency status of their parents. Proof of residence requires evidence of both physical presence and intent to remain indefinitely in California at least one year before the residence determination date. In addition, other rules and exceptions apply. The SDSU residence determination dates are September 20 for fall and January 25 for spring each year. More information can be found on the SDSU Office of the Registrar Web site.


11. How can I register for New Student Orientation?

Registration information for New Student Orientation will be sent to you via the e-mail and mailing addresses you have on file with your SDSU WebPortal. You may also check the New Student Orientation Web site for orientation information as it becomes available. Reservations for specific orientation dates can be made online beginning May 2, 2008. In addition to orientation, admitted students are also invited to attend Explore SDSU Open House on March 15, 2008.


12. What happens if I don’t pass a class that I need as an admission requirement?

Admission decisions are based on self-reported information from your application. The SDSU Office of Admissions will verify your reported information upon receiving your official transcripts and test scores. All courses required for admission must be passed with an acceptable grade and you must also maintain the grade point average reported on your application. If you have not met our requirements as expected, SDSU may withdraw the offer of admission.


13. Do I have to take any placement exams?

Yes. There are two tests new freshman students are required to take before being allowed to register for classes at any California State University (CSU) campus. These tests are the Entry Level Mathematics (ELM) and English Placement Test (EPT). You may have already satisfied these requirements through your SAT, ACT, Advanced Placement test scores or with certain transfer courses.

Transfer students must demonstrate competency in writing skills at the upper division level as a requirement for the baccalaureate degree within the California State University System. At SDSU, the Writing Proficiency Assessment (WPA) is used to assess that competency. Transfer students are eligible to take the WPA once they have received an offer of admission. Transfers must take the examination during their first semester at SDSU. Important dates and online registration for tests held at SDSU are available on the Student Testing, Assessment and Research Web site.


14. How does registration work?

Beginning in late May, you will receive a postcard in the mail alerting you that your registration information is available in your WebPortal account. Once in your Portal account, you can access “My Registration,” which will provide you with information about your fees, fee payment options, and any registration holds. You will also find the class schedule and Student Information Handbook at this site. Registration fees are normally due a few weeks before your registration date. When it is your time to register, you will log on to the WebPortal and add the classes you wish to take.


15. How does attending New Student Orientation affect my registration date?

First-time freshmen and transfers who attend New Student Orientation will be able to register for fall classes the next business day after orientation, providing your fees are paid and holds are cleared. This early registration gives you a wider selection of courses from which to choose. Students who attend the two-day orientation will register for classes at orientation. Those students who attend the Northern California orientation will be assigned a new time on the second business day following orientation. In order to take advantage of early registration, first-time freshmen must pay all fees and clear any registration holds two weeks prior to attending orientation.


16. How do I know which classes to take?

At New Student Orientation, you will receive a personal information sheet and Major Academic Plan (MAP) that will help you identify what courses you need and which General Education courses will also fulfill major preparation course requirements. MAPs also suggest sequencing to ensure that you complete prerequisites for an upper-division course prior to taking the higher-level course. MAPs can be found at the MAPs Web site. You can also use the WebPortal to navigate the course requirements for your major.


17. What is the TOEFL and why do I need to take it?

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required of applicants who attended high school outside of the United States in a country where English is not the primary language of instruction. The TOEFL requirement can be waived if you have completed at least one of following:
(a) Earned "B" or higher grades in General Education Written Communication AND Critical Thinking courses;
(b) Received an SAT Critical Reading score of 550 or higher, or ACT English score 24 or higher;
(c) Received an English Placement Test (EPT) score of 151 or higher; or
(d) Received an AP English exam score of 3 or higher.


18. Now that I’ve been admitted, how can I declare my double major or my minor?

After registration, all students wishing to change their major or curriculum should check with the department of their intended major for requirements and filing periods. The "Declaration of Major or Minor" form is available in person from the Office of the Registrar, Office of Advising and Evaluations, or the department of your new major. You will need to complete the student information portion of the form and take it to the department of the major or minor you wish to declare. They will fill out the rest of the information and provide you with the major code. Then return the form to the Office of the Registrar to complete the change.


19. I applied in one major, but I’ve changed my mind. How do I change my major?

Prior to registering for classes, freshmen applicants may send an e-mail to the SDSU Office of Admissions at admissions@sdsu.edu requesting a change of major. Freshmen applicants must include their full name, RedID number and the new major. Please note that requests for a change to an Undeclared or Music and Dance major will not be granted. Transfer applicants must submit a letter of appeal requesting the change of major. The one-page appeal letter must include the applicant’s full name, RedID number, contact information and the reasons for the change of major. Transfer applicants must also include official transcripts from all institutions attended, as well as proof of current enrollment, with their appeal. The entire appeals packet must be sent to:

University Admissions Appeals Committee
San Diego State University
500 Campanile Dr .
San Diego, CA 92182-7455


20. Is it possible to get the classes I want/need and graduate in 4 years?

SDSU is committed to helping students graduate in four years. The majority of SDSU bachelor’s degree programs require 120 units to graduate. For students in these majors, taking a full load of 15 units per semester would set them on track to graduate within a four-year period. Students should meet with their academic and major advisers regularly to ensure they are following the graduation requirements for their degree.


21. How can I appeal my application status?

SDSU accepts appeals for extreme circumstances only. If you think your situation qualifies you for an admissions appeal, contact the SDSU Office of Admissions at (619) 594-6336 or admissions@sdsu.edu for additional information.

I Have Been Admitted - Freshmen Questions

1. If I have a high GPA from high school, do I still need to provide my SAT Reasoning/ACT test scores?
2. What are the ELM and EPT tests?
3. How do I register to take the ELM and/or EPT?
4. What are the exemption requirements for the ELM?
5. What are the exemption requirements for the EPT?
6. How much time is required to take the ELM and EPT?

I Have Been Admitted - Freshmen Questions and Answers

1. If I have a high GPA from high school, do I still need to provide my SAT Reasoning/ACT test scores?

Yes. Regardless of your high school grade point average, your official SAT Reasoning/ACT test scores are required.


2. What are the ELM and EPT tests?

The Entry Level Mathematics (ELM) and English Placement Test (EPT) are placement tests required of all first-time freshmen before being allowed to register for classes at any California State University campus. You may have already satisfied these requirements through your SAT, ACT, Advanced Placement test scores or with certain transfer courses.


3. How do I register to take the ELM and/or EPT?

Many California State University campuses offer ELM/EPT exams throughout the summer. Summer test dates may be found on the Educational Testing Services Web site. Non-residents of California may take the ELM and/or EPT tests on Saturday, August 30, and your admission will not be compromised. You must take the required ELM/EPT tests and your scores must be received by SDSU by the first day of fall classes, or you will not be able to register for fall classes. Test dates and registration information for tests held at SDSU are available on the Student Testing, Assessment and Research Web site.


4. What are the exemption requirements for the ELM?

You may have already satisfied the Entry Level Math (ELM) requirement. To fulfill your ELM requirement, you must answer YES to one or more of the following questions:
• Did you score 550 or higher on the math section of the SAT Reasoning test?
• Did you score 23 or higher on the math section of the ACT?
• Did you score 3 or higher on the math AB or BC examination or on the statistics examination of the Advanced Placement test?
• Did you pass, with a grade of “C” or higher, a transferable college math course that satisfies the General Education mathematics/quantitative reasoning requirement by the end of the spring 2008 term? (See an advisor if this applies to you.)
• Did you receive the EAP math result "Ready for CSU College-Level Mathematics Courses" located on the STAR report?

Please note that you are strongly encouraged to take the ELM even if you receive the EAP math result "Ready for CSU College-Level Mathematics Courses - Conditional" located on the STAR report.


5. What are the exemption requirements for the EPT?

You may have already satisfied the English Placement Test (EPT) requirement. To fulfill your EPT requirement, you must answer YES to one or more of the following questions:
• Did you score 550 or higher on the critical reading section of the SAT Reasoning test?
• Did you receive a score of 680 or above on the SAT Writing section?
• Did you score 24 or higher on the English section of the ACT?
• Did you score 3 or higher on the language and composition or the composition and literature Advanced Placement test?
• Did you pass, with a “C” or higher, a transferable college English composition course that satisfies the General Education composition or critical thinking requirement by the end of the spring 2008 term? (See an advisor if this applies to you.)
• Did you receive the EAP English result "Ready for CSU College-Level English Courses" located on the STAR report?
• Receive a score of 4-7 on the Higher Level English A1 International Baccalaureate exam?
  
6. How much time is required to take the ELM and EPT?

You will be given two hours to complete each test.

I Have Been Admitted - Transfer Questions

1. When will I know how all my classes transferred over to SDSU?
2. What is the WPA? Why do I need to take it?
3. How much does the WPA cost?

I Have Been Admitted - Transfer Questions

1. When will I know how all my classes transferred over to SDSU?

Once we have received your final transcripts, we will begin the process of preparing your transfer credit evaluation. The evaluation will show how transfer work has been applied to SDSU requirements for your major. Your evaluation will be available to you by the time you attend New Student Orientation. Once you have received your evaluation, you can obtain updated copies on the WebPortal .


2. What is the WPA? Why do I need to take it?

The Writing Proficiency Assessment (WPA) is a test used to assess competency in writing skills at the upper division level as a requirement for the baccalaureate degree within the California State University System. All SDSU students must take the WPA during the semester in which they achieve 60 units or in the semester immediately following. Transfer students are strongly encouraged to take the WPA once they have received an offer of admission. Transfers who do not take the exam by the end of their first semester at SDSU will be administratively disqualified and will not be able to continue to attend SDSU. For more information about the test and to view test preparation materials, visit the WPA Information Web Site.


3. How much does the WPA cost?

The fee for the Writing Proficiency Assessment (WPA) is $35.