Saturday, Oct. 1, 2011, marks the beginning of the application period for students looking to attend California State University, Fresno or any of the other 22 California State University campuses in fall 2012.

Students intending to apply for fall should visit the website www.csumentor.edu to complete the online application. CSU Mentor is the best systemwide source for updated information on applying to campuses and programs.

During the application process, prospective students are strongly encouraged to be aware of campus requirements and deadlines. High school seniors and community college transfer students are especially encouraged to apply no later than Nov. 30, 2011. After that date, most CSU campuses will stop accepting applications.

The next step after applying is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Nearly half of CSU undergraduates receive enough in financial aid to cover the full cost of their tuition fees. CSU students also benefit from one of the lowest tuition rates in the nation.

Campuses face impaction
Many campuses remain impacted due to the continuing decline in state funding and the high demand for a CSU education.  Students applying to impacted campuses may face additional criteria, such as a higher eligibility index or grade point average, with students in the local area receiving priority in most cases.  View a list of impacted campuses.

Programs may also be impacted, meaning that students may need to meet additional criteria to apply for a particular program.  View a list of impacted majors.

In general, students are encouraged to apply to multiple CSU campuses as a backup in case they are not admitted to the campus or major of their first choice.

Students get an Early Start
During the summer of 2012, new CSU first-time freshmen students needing to strengthen their English and math skills will be eligible for an early start.  The CSU Early Start initiative requires students who do not show proficiency through testing or other exemptions to take classes in summer that focus on those skills.

“Preparation for college lays the foundation for student success,” said Eric Forbes, assistant vice chancellor of CSU Academic Affairs.  “Students in CSU Early Start will begin the fall semester actively using the knowledge and skills that are required every day on a college campus.”

Students will be allowed to attend courses at a nearby CSU campus or community college if necessary.  In addition, fees for Early Start will be waived for students qualifying for certain types of financial aid.  Campuses will communicate more information on Early Start throughout the admission process.

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