13 CSU Campuses Still Open
January 22nd Update: Despite declining enrollment, 13 California State University campuses are still accepting applications for Fall 2026—some through April. If you're considering expensive private schools, here's why you need CSU options on your list.
Why CSUs = Best Return on Investment
The amount of loans you'll need is so low that students can easily pay them back. Most families won't even need a parent loan—or if you do, it'll be minimal. You're looking at student direct loans only, with the rest manageable through savings or a small parent contribution.
Compare this to private school requiring $40,000+ gaps that students must cover with private loans (with parents as co-signers).
Still Open Through Spring 2026:
January 31st Deadline:
Cal State Northridge - Only 10 days left!
February 28th Deadline:
Sacramento State - Quality CSU with extended deadline
April 30th Deadline:
Sonoma State - Accepting applications through late spring!
Other Open Campuses:
Channel Islands
Chico State
Dominguez Hills (all majors open—commuter-friendly, incredible ROI)
East Bay
Humboldt (Cal Poly Humboldt)
Monterey Bay
San Bernardino
San Francisco State
San Marcos
Stanislaus
How to use the tool:
Select "Freshman"
Choose "Fall 2026"
Click Submit
Browse the list of open campuses
Click campus names to see available majors and deadlines
Why Are So Many Still Open?
Decreased enrollment due to:
Population age shifts (fewer college-age students)
Families leaving California (400,000+ in the last 18 months)
Students choosing out-of-state options
This works in your favor. More availability, easier admissions, same quality education.
The Application Reality
CSU applications are simple:
No teacher recommendations
No essays
Self-reported grades
$70 application fee (waivers may be available)
Parents: Even if your student "doesn't want to apply," do it anyway if you're considering private schools. You need to compare costs like any smart shopper.
Don't Let Myths Stop You
Myth: "CSUs are bad schools" or "lesser schools"
Truth: Many of the highest-paid graduates went to CSU because these schools prepare students for the workforce.
Myth: "CSUs don't have prestige"
Truth: Prestige doesn't matter when you're drowning in loan debt. Your retirement savings and financial stability matter.
You determine affordability by what you're willing to pay. CSUs make that choice easier.
With 13 schools still accepting applications—some through April 30th—you have no excuse not to include affordable, high-ROI CSU options. Don't let your student write off an entire school system based on outdated information or counselor bias.
Your student might say "I want to go out of state." Fine. Apply to CSUs anyway so you can compare actual costs. Make affordability decisions with real data, not wishful thinking about scholarships or loans.