Don’t Miss Out on the December 1st Deadline
The CSU priority deadline is December 1st. After that date, most California State University campuses close their applications—especially the ones you actually want to attend.
If You Haven't Applied Yet
Right now, families are discovering they missed the CSU deadline entirely. For many students, CSU represents the only affordable college option. Don't let procrastination cost you thousands of dollars or force you into expensive out-of-state schools.
The CSU Application is Simple
Unlike UC applications, CSU requires:
No essays
No recommendation letters
No mailed transcripts
Just a self-reported grade form. That's it.
However, the self-report can be tricky if your student:
Attended multiple high schools
Took summer classes
Failed courses and made them up
Has D grades on their transcript
If you need help with the application, get assistance now—there's no time to waste.
Apply to the RIGHT CSUs
CSU admissions are entirely grade-based. If your student has a 2.7-2.8 GPA, there are specific CSUs they should target and many popular ones they won't get into.
Don't just apply to the CSUs your student wants. Apply to the ones that match their actual GPA.
A Word to Parents
Some students are quietly hoping you don't notice this deadline. Why? Because they want to go out-of-state, and if CSU applications aren't submitted, you'll have fewer affordable options.
There's nothing wrong with CSU. Some of the most successful professionals attended CSU schools. Don't let prestige hunting lead to unnecessary debt.
About UC Applications
The UC deadline is also December 1st. At this point, do not start a UC application if you haven't already. Those four required essays take serious time, and submitting rushed work at the last minute won't help your chances.
Plus, UC typically only admits students in the top 10% by GPA (usually 3.94+ weighted). If that's not your student, CSU might be the smarter path.
Take Action Now
Check where your student is with their CSU applications. For many families, this is the difference between affordable college and crushing debt.