Which CSUs are Still Open?
Despite the November 30th priority deadline, 13 California State University campuses are still accepting applications for Fall 2026. If you're waiting on expensive private schools or HBCUs, consider adding affordable CSU options to your list.
Still Open with Extended Deadlines:
Through January:
Cal State Northridge - Open until January 31st for ALL majors, including undeclared
Through February:
CSU Monterey Bay - Open until February 16th for all majors
Through April:
Sonoma State - Open until April 30th with the best housing in the CSU system. Business Administration, Kinesiology (typically impacted), and many other majors still available
Other Open Campuses:
Sacramento State (unique majors, great career outcomes)
San Bernardino
Channel Islands
Chico State
East Bay
Fresno State
Humboldt (Cal Poly Humboldt)
San Francisco State
San Marcos
Stanislaus
Plus more...
Why Consider CSU Now?
Lower enrollment means more availability across majors that are usually impacted. CSU graduates consistently report strong career outcomes and manageable student debt.
Application requirements:
No essays required
No teacher recommendations
$70 application fee (waivers may be available)
Can apply to up to 4 campuses
How to Check What's Open
Select "Freshman"
Choose "Fall 2026"
Click Submit
Look for campuses marked "Open"
Click "See Notice" to view which majors are available
Note: Some campuses show "Open" but only for specific programs (like Cal Poly SLO Maritime Academy). Always check the major availability.
If you're focused solely on expensive private schools or out-of-state HBCUs, you're missing out on high return-on-investment options that are still accepting applications. CSU schools like Northridge, Sonoma, and Sacramento State offer excellent education at sustainable costs.
San Diego State and Long Beach are closed. But with 13 campuses still open, many until late spring, you have options. Apply now and secure your affordable safety school while housing is still available.