- Minimum Score for Undergraduate Applicants
- Internet-based test - 61
- Paper-based test - 500
- Essentials - 7.0
- Internet-based test - 80
- Paper-based test – 550
- Essentials - 9.0
- Minimum Score for Undergraduate Applicants – 6
- Minimum Score for Graduate Applicants – 6.5
- Minimum Score for Undergraduates – 47
- Minimum Score for Graduate Applicants – 59
Subject Requirements
The CSU requires that first-time freshman applicants complete, with grades of C- or higher, a comprehensive pattern of college preparatory study totaling 15 units. A “unit” is one year of study in high school. A grade of CR or P will be honored for coursework completed during the winter, spring, summer, or fall 2020 and during winter, spring, or summer 2021 terms.
Social Science, 2 years
- (including one year of U.S. history or U.S. history and government)
English, 4 years
Mathematics, 3 years
- (algebra, geometry, and intermediate algebra; four years recommended)
Laboratory Science, 2 years
- (one biological and one physical science, both with labs)
Foreign language, 2 years
- (same language, subject to waiver for applicants demonstrating equivalent competence)
Visual or Performing Arts, 1 year
- (art, dance, drama/theatre, or music, one single year-long course or two semester-long courses in the same discipline)
Electives, 1 year
- (selected from English, advanced mathematics, social science, history, laboratory science, foreign language, visual and performing arts, or other courses approved and included on the UC/CSU "a-g" list)
Subject Requirement Substitution for Students with Disabilities
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to complete college preparatory course requirements. If you are judged unable to fulfill a specific course requirement because of your verified disability, alternate college preparatory courses may possibly be substituted for specific subject requirements. Substitutions may possibly be authorized on an individual basis after review and recommendation by your academic advisor or guidance counselor in consultation with a Chico State Admissions counselor. Although the distribution may be slightly different from the course pattern required of other students, students qualifying for substitutions will still be held for 15 units of college preparatory study. You should be aware that course substitutions may limit your later enrollment in certain majors, particularly those involving mathematics. For more information, please call the Office of Admissions at 530-898-6322. Chico State requires that course substitutions be approved before the substituted course is taken. Subject requirement substitutions are granted on a case-by-case basis.
Transfer Policies of California State University
Most commonly, college-level credits earned from an institution of higher education accredited by a regional/national accrediting agency are accepted for transfer to universities of the CSU; however, authority for decisions regarding the transfer of undergraduate credits is delegated to each university.
California Community Colleges and other authorized certifying institutions can certify up to 39 semester (58.5 quarter) units of General Education-Breadth (GE-Breadth) or 37 semester (55.5 quarter) units of the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) for transfer students to fulfill lower-division general education requirements for any CSU university prior to transfer.
“Certification” is the official notification from a California Community College or authorized institution that a transfer student has completed courses fulfilling lower-division general education requirements. The CSU GE-Breadth and the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) certification course lists for particular community colleges can be accessed on the official transfer and articulation system for California's public colleges and universities website, assist.org.
CSUs may enter into course-to-course or program-to-program articulation agreements with other CSUs any or all of the California Community Colleges, and other regionally accredited institutions. Established CSU and California Community College articulations may be found on assist.org.
Students may be permitted to transfer no more than 70 semester (105 quarter) units to a CSU from an institution that does not offer bachelor’s degrees or their equivalents, for example, community colleges. Given the university’s 30-semester (45 quarter) unit residency requirement, no more than a total of 90 semester (135 quarter) units may be transferred into the university from all sources.
Transfer Requirements
Applicants who have completed fewer than 60 transferable semester college units (fewer than 90 quarter units) are considered lower-division transfer students. Applicants who have completed 60 or more transferable semester college units (90 or more quarter units) are considered upper-division transfer students. Applicants who complete college units during high school or through the summer immediately following high school graduation are considered first-time freshmen and must meet the CSU minimum eligibility requirements for first-time freshman admission. Transferable courses are those designated for baccalaureate credit by the college or university offering the courses and accepted as such by the university to which the applicant seeks admission.
Lower-Division Transfer Requirements
Due to increased enrollment demands, some CSUs do not admit lowe r -division transfer applicants. Students are advised to check the respective university they are interested in to see if lowe r division transfer applications are accepted.
An applicant who completes fewer than 60 semester (90 quarter) units of college credit is considered a lowe r -division transfer student. Due to enrollment pressures, some CSUs do not admit lowe r - division transfers so that more upper-division transfers can be accommodated.
Having fewer than 60 semester (90 quarter) units at the point of transfer may affect eligibility for registration priority at a CSU and may affect the student’s financial aid status.
California resident transfer applicants with fewer than 60 semester or 90 quarter units must:
- Have a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 (C) or better in all transferable units attempted;
- Have completed, with a grade of C- or better, a course in written communication and a course in mathematics or quantitative reasoning at a level satisfying CSU General Education Breadth Area A2 and B4 requirement, respectively;
- Be in good standing at the last institution attended; and
- Meet any one of the following eligibility standards.
Transfer Based on Current Admission Criteria
The applicant meets the freshman admission requirements in effect for the term for which the application is filed; -OR-Transfer Based on High School Eligibility
The applicant was eligible as a freshman at the time of high school graduation and has been in continuous attendance in an accredited college since high school graduation; -OR-Transfer Based on Making Up Missing Subjects
The applicant had a qualifying GPA, has made up any missing college preparatory subject requirements with a grade of C- or better, and has been in continuous attendance in an accredited college since high school graduation.One baccalaureate-level course of at least 3 semester (4 quarter) units is usually considered equivalent to one year of high school study.
Note: Some CSUs may require lower-division transfer students to complete specific college coursework, for example the four basic skills courses, as part of their admission criteria.
Upper-Division Transfer Requirements
Generally, applicants will qualify for consideration for upper-division transfer admission if they meet all of the following requirements:
- Cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 in all transferable units attempted;
- In good standing at the last college or university attended; and
- Completed at least 60 transferable semester (90 quarter) units of college-level coursework with a grade point average of 2.0 or higher and a grade C- or better in each course used to meet the CSU general education requirements in written communication, oral communication, critical thinking, and quantitative reasoning, e.g. mathematics. A grade of CR or P will be honored for coursework completed during the winter, spring, summer, or fall 2020 and during winter, spring, or summer 2021.
The 60 units must include at least 30 units of courses that meet CSU general education requirement, including all of the general education requirements in communication in the English language (both oral and written) and critical thinking and the requirement in mathematics/quantitative reasoning (usually 3 semester units) OR the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) requirements in English communication and mathematical concepts and quantitative reasoning.
Associate Degrees for Transfer (AA-T or AS-T)
The Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) and the Associate in Science for Transfer (AS-T) degrees offered at the California Community Colleges (CCC) are designed to provide a California community college student the optimum transfer preparation and a clear admission pathway to the CSU degree majors.
CCC students who earn an Associate Degree for Transfer (AA-T or AS-T) are guaranteed admission with junior standing to a CSU and given priority admission consideration over other transfer applicants when applying to a local CSU or non-impacted CSU program. AA-T or AS-T admission applicants are given limited priority consideration based on their eligibility ranking to an impacted university/program or to CSUs/programs that have been deemed similar to the degree completed at the community college. Students who have completed an AA-T/AS-T in a program deemed similar to a CSU major are able to complete remaining requirements for graduation within 60 semester (90 quarter) units. It is the responsibility of the student who has earned an AA-T/AS-T to provide documentation of the degree to the CSU. For the admissions process, students are responsible for working with their community college counselors to complete verification of AA-T or AS-T degree progress through the e-verify process within the established university deadlines.
Because several CSU universities are receiving more transfer applications from eligible students than can be accommodated, these CSUs have declared impaction resulting in higher admission criteria.
Students who earn associate degrees for transfer and apply to a CSU university but cannot be admitted due to impaction will be redirected to another CSU university and offered admission for the same term. In order to qualify for the priority admission guarantee, transfer applicants must be conferred an approved Associate Degree for Transfer (AA-T/AS-T) by a California Community College, must apply for admission to the California State University for an open term by the published deadline, submit all requested transcripts and documents, meet CSU admission eligibility requirements for the university and/or program, and must comply with any other prescribed admission requirements. It is the responsibility of these transfer students to provide documentation about the completion of the degree to each CSU university that has received an application for admission.
Provisional Admission
Chico State may provisionally or conditionally admit transfer applicants based on their academic preparation and courses planned for completion. The university will monitor the final terms to ensure that those admitted complete all required courses satisfactorily. All accepted applicants are required to submit an official transcript of all college-level work completed. CSUs may rescind admission for any student who is found to be ineligible after the final transcript has been evaluated. In no case may such documents be received and validated by the university any later than a student's registration for their second term of CSU enrollment.
Second Bachelor's Degree
The minimum requirements for admission to graduate or postbaccalaureate studies at a CSU are in accordance with university regulations as well as Title 5, chapter 1, sub-chapter 3 of the California Code of Regulations. Specifically, you will qualify for admission if you:
- Have completed a four-year college course of study and hold an acceptable baccalaureate;
- Are in good academic standing at the last college or university attended;
- Have attained a grade point average of at least 2.5 in an acceptable earned baccalaureate degree;
- Have attained a grade point average of at least 2.5 (A = 4.0) in the last 60 semester (90 quarter) units attempted.
Recording Arts and Liberal Studies are closed to students seeking second bachelor's degrees.
International (Foreign) Student Admission Requirements
The CSU must assess the academic preparation of international students. For this purpose, “international students” include those who hold U.S. temporary visas as students, exchange visitors, or in other nonimmigrant classifications.
The CSU uses separate requirements and application filing dates in the admission of international students. Each university sets its own application filing periods for international students. At Chico State, the undergraduate application period for the fall semester is from October 1 to May 1. For the spring semester, the application period is from August 1 to September 30. Verification of English proficiency (see International Admissions website) and academic performance are all important considerations for admission. Academic records from foreign institutions must be official. If transcripts are not in English, they must be accompanied by certified English translations. All supporting documents must be received by May 15 for fall admission and October 15 for spring admission.
Academic Requirements
Graduates of university-preparatory secondary/high school programs in foreign countries are required to have academic preparation and abilities sufficient to succeed in a demanding bachelor's degree program.
A cumulative grade point average of B (3.0 on a 4.0 scale) with a C (2.0 on a 4.0 scale) in all mathematics courses or the equivalent earned in secondary school is required for first-time freshmen applicants.
Applicants with foreign college or university-level coursework are required to have a 2.40 on a 4.0 scale on all postsecondary coursework.
An international student may transfer to Chico State from a college or university within the U.S. with completion of at least 24 semester units, providing their cumulative grade point average is at least 2.0 and they have completed, with a grade of C or higher, the following General Education requirements: Oral Communication, Written Communication, and Mathematics.
Applicants who have previously completed a U.S. bachelor’s degree or equivalent are required to have a 2.50 on a 4.0 scale on postsecondary coursework for admission to a second bachelor’s program.
In general, impacted bachelor’s degree programs are closed for admission for international applicants.
Complete details of the admission standards for all undergraduate applicant types are available on the International Admissions website.
Conditional Admission
The university offers conditional admission through partnerships with various intensive English programs for students who meet all requirements for regular admission, with the exception of the English language proficiency requirement. To be considered for conditional admission, students must apply to both programs at least three months prior to the beginning of the English program session they wish to attend.
English Language Proficiency Requirement
See detailed information on the International Admissions website.
Financial Support Requirement
Evidence of sufficient financial support to complete the degree program is required for admission. The current required amount can be obtained from International Admissions. These figures are subject to change.
Other Examinations
SAT or ACT is not required for admission. Results may qualify you for exemptions from certain placement tests once you arrive in Chico. See Mathematics/Quantitative Reasoning and Writing Requirements.
Required Health Insurance
All admitted international students on F-1 and J-1 visas must obtain and maintain health insurance as a condition of registration and continued enrollment in the California State University. Details about minimum coverage requirements are available from International Student and Scholar Services.
The International Baccalaureate
Chico State recognizes the International Baccalaureate as a strong college preparatory program (the International Baccalaureate North America/IBNA is one example of an IB program). Applicants currently enrolled in a full IB diploma program will be considered to have met or have in progress all college preparatory subject requirements for admission. Students completing less than the full IB diploma program must meet subject requirements as described in "Subject Requirements for First-time Freshman Applicants." Additional factors to be considered in reaching our admission decision will be the high school GPA and supplemental factors. Additional honors points will be awarded in GPA calculations for achievement in up to eight IB courses taken in grades 11 and 12 and indicated on the high school transcript.
CSU will award honors points in the GPA calculation for eight semester courses taken in the 11th or 12th grades, including up to two International Baccalaureate (IB) or Advanced Placement (AP) courses with 11th or 12th grade content taken by a student in the 10th grade. Applicants who plan to enroll at Chico State should submit a copy of the official IB transcript and diploma when it is available in July. Up to six semester units of advanced standing credit will be awarded for each Higher Level examination passed with a score of 4, 5, 6, or 7. No credit will be awarded for Subsidiary Level passes.
Other Applicants
High School Students
High school students may be considered for enrollment in certain special programs if recommended by the principal and the appropriate university department chair and if preparation is equivalent to that required of eligible California high school graduates. Such admission is only for a given specific program and does not constitute a right to continued enrollment. The High School Scholars program is subject to yearly budgetary renewal. Please refer to the High School Scholars page for program status.
The California Promise
The California Promise Program enables a specific number of CSUs to establish pledge programs for entering first-time students who are both interested and able to complete baccalaureate degrees in four years. All CSUs have established programs for students with Associate Degrees for Transfer from any California Community College to complete their baccalaureate degrees in two years. The program is limited to students who are residents of California.
Students who commit to enter either the four-year or two-year pledge will be given a priority registration appointment for each state-supported enrollment period and will be provided with routine and thorough academic advisement. In order to remain in the program, students must meet with their advisors as prescribed, develop an enrollment plan, and complete 30 semester units or the quarter equivalent within each academic year, including summer. Participating CSUs may stipulate other requirements as well. Interested students entering Chico State should visit the California Promise Program website.
Educational Opportunity Program
The Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) provides assistance for first-generation college students who are historically low-income, academically underprepared, or lacking the subject requirements, grades, or test scores normally required for college attendance, but who have demonstrated the potential for academic success. Students who are academically eligible for regular admission to the University and meet EOP criteria may also apply. To be eligible for EOP admission, you must be an undergraduate and a California resident or qualify for an AB 540 nonresident tuition exemption.
To apply for admission through EOP, applicants must first submit the CSU application through Cal State Apply. Next, the applicant must submit the separate online EOP application, which includes the EOP applicant information form, and recommendation forms.
For additional information about the Educational Opportunity Program, please call 530-898-6831 or e-mail eopadm@csuchico.edu.
Veterans
If you are a veteran of the United States military service and a California resident, you may possibly be granted admission even if you do not meet the University's regular admission requirements. If you wish to request consideration under this provision, follow regular application procedures, and send a letter of appeal to the Office of Admissions. More information for veterans is available through Veteran Education Transition Services.
Adult Students
As an alternative to regular admission criteria, an applicant who is 25 years of age or older may be considered for admission as an adult student if he or she meets all of the following conditions:
- Possesses a high school diploma (or has established equivalence through either the General Educational Development or California High School Proficiency Examinations).
- Has not been enrolled in college as a full-time student for more than one term during the past five years.
- If there has been any college attendance in the last five years, has earned a 2.00 GPA or better in all college work attempted.
Consideration will be based upon a judgment as to whether the applicant is as likely to succeed as a regularly admitted freshman or transfer student and will include an assessment of basic skills in the English language and mathematical computation.
Applicants Not Regularly Eligible
Applicants not admissible under the guidelines of one of the above provisions may enroll in extension courses, at a community college, or at another appropriate institution to meet eligibility requirements. Denied applicants may choose to petition for special admission consideration. Only under the most unusual circumstances and only by special action will such applicants be admitted to Chico State.
Auditing Classes
Auditors regularly attend classes. However, they do not actively participate by preparing outside assignments or by taking examinations; nor do they receive academic credit for participation in classes. If you want to audit a class for information only, you must submit the regular admission application but without payment of the application fee.
Enrollment as an auditor is subject to the permission of the instructor and permitted only after students otherwise eligible to enroll in the course on a credit basis have had an opportunity to do so. Auditors are subject to the same fee structure as credit students.
Applying to the University
Undergraduate Application Procedures
Prospective students applying for part-time or full-time undergraduate programs of study must submit a completed undergraduate application. The $70 nonrefundable application fee should be paid online at the time of application via credit card or PayPal and may not be transferred or used to apply to another term. An alternate major may be requested on the application if desired by the university. The applications of persons denied admission to an impacted university may be redirected to another university at no cost, but only if the applicant is CSU eligible.
The CSU designates programs as impacted when more applications from regularly eligible applicants are received in the initial filing period (October and November for fall terms, June for winter terms, August for spring terms, February for summer terms) than can be accommodated. Some programs are impacted at every university which they are offered; others are impacted only at a few universities.
Candidates for admission must meet all of the university's specified supplementary admission criteria if applying to an impacted program or university.
The CSU will announce during the fall filing period those CSUs or programs that are impacted. Detailed information on university and program impaction is available on the Impaction at the CSU website.
You must file your application for admission to an impacted program during the initial filing period. If you wish to be considered in impacted programs at two or more CSUs, you must file an application to each.
Applicants from the Chico State service area will receive priority for admission if enrollment space becomes limited.
Returning Students
If you are a returning student seeking admission after an absence of more than one semester, you must file an application for admission and a $70 fee to reactivate your student record. If you have been absent from the University on an approved Leave of Absence (LOA), you are not required to file an application for readmission or pay the $70 fee. For further information on educational leaves, see "Leave of Absence" in the Academic Policies and Regulations section. If you are not on an LOA, please visit the Office of Admissions website for further information.
Please note that if you were disqualified from Chico State, you must
- Apply for readmission to the University through Cal State Apply, and
- Formally appeal for reinstatement to the University. You must be reinstated before your application for admission will be processed.
Intrasystem and Intersystem Enrollment Programs
Fully matriculated students enrolled at any CSU have access to courses at other CSUs on a space-available basis unless those universities/programs are impacted. This access is offered without students being required to be formally admitted to the host university and in most cases without paying additional fees. Students should consult their home university academic advisors to determine how such courses may apply to their specific degree programs before enrolling at the host university.
There are two programs for enrollment within the CSU and one for enrollment between CSU and the University of California or California Community Colleges. Additional information about these programs is available from the Office of Admissions, 530-898-6321.
CSU Fully Online Courses. Matriculated students in good standing may request enrollment in one course per term, offered by a CSU host university. Enrollment requests will be granted based on available space, as well as completion of any stated prerequisites. Credit earned at the host university is electronically reported to the student’s home university to be included on the student’s transcript at the home university.
CSU Visitor Enrollment. Matriculated students in good standing enrolled at one CSU may enroll at another CSU for one term. Credit earned at the host university is reported at the student’s request to the home university to be included on the student’s transcript at the home university.
Intersystem Cross Enrollment. Matriculated CSU, UC, or community college students may enroll on a “space available” basis for one course per term at another CSU, UC, or community college and request that a transcript of record be sent to the home university.
International Student Application Procedures (Undergraduate)
Information regarding international student admission is available from International Admissions.
If you are an international student, a special international application is online at Cal State Apply. Students are strongly encouraged to submit applications by these deadlines:
- Fall semesters—April 1
- Spring semesters—September 30
Late applications are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the International Admissions office to discuss submission of a late application at 530-898-5415 or apply@csuchico.edu.
Use of Social Security Number
Applicants are required to include their correct Social Security numbers in designated places on applications for admission pursuant to the authority contained in Section 41201, Title 5, California Code of Regulations, and Section 6109 of the Internal Revenue Code (26 U.S.C. 6109).
The university uses the Social Security number to identify students and their records including identification for purposes of financial aid eligibility and disbursement and the repayment of financial aid and other debts payable to the institution. Also, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires the university to file information returns that include the student’s Social Security number and other information such as the amount paid for qualified tuition, related expenses, and interest on educational loans. This information is used by the IRS to help determine whether a student, or a person claiming a student as a dependent, may take a credit or deduction to reduce federal income taxes. The Financial Aid and Scholarships Office will also use it to report Federal Work-Study earnings to the Federal Department of Education.
Note: According to state law, the University will make separate provisions to the Social Security number requirement for any student who meets the AB 540 eligibility requirements.
Steps in the Application Process
1. Initial (Priority) Filing Periods
Due to the high demand for admission to Chico State, first-time freshman and transfer applicants must apply during the initial filing period. All other applicants are strongly encouraged to do the same. All applications received electronically or postmarked during the initial filing period will be given equal consideration within established enrollment categories and quotas. If applying after the initial filing period, consult with the university admissions office for current information. Similar information is available at Cal State Apply.
Semester's Initial Filing Period
- Fall: October 1–November 30
- Spring: August 1–31
Each non-impacted CSU accepts applications until capacities are reached. Many CSUs limit undergraduate admission in an enrollment category due to overall enrollment limits. If applying after the initial filing period, consult the university admissions office for current information and application filing procedures. Similar information is available at Cal State Apply.
2. Application Acknowledgment
Applicants may expect to receive an acknowledgment from Chico State within one week of filing the application. The notice may also include a request that applicants submit additional records necessary to evaluate academic qualifications. Applicants may be assured of admission if the evaluation of relevant qualifications indicates that applicants meet CSU admission requirements, and in the case of admission impaction, supplemental criteria for admission to an impacted program. Unless specific written approval/confirmation is received, an offer of admission is not transferable to another term or to another CSU.
3. Transcripts and Test Scores
For specific information visit the Office of Admissions website or contact the office at 530-898-6322.
4. Notification of Admission
Many students are conditionally admitted based on their self-reported application information. It is crucial to submit requested documents in accordance with established deadlines to ensure verification of eligibility and to contact the Office of Admissions if anything reported on the application changes such as changes to work in progress or to future planned courses. Other applicants may be required to submit official documents before an admission decision can be made and risk having their application being withdrawn if these documents are not received by the communicated deadlines.
Information about advising, orientation, and registration procedures will be sent to you. Late applicants may miss some of the options open to those who file in a timely manner.
Chico State may conditionally admit first-time freshman applicants based on their academic preparation through the junior year of high school and that which is planned for the senior year. The university will verify the senior year of study to ensure that those so admitted complete their studies satisfactorily, including the required college preparatory subjects, and graduate from high school.
Chico State may conditionally admit upper-division transfer applicants based on their academic preparation at other regionally accredited institutions and that which is planned for the semester prior to their attendance at Chico State. The university will verify all college coursework completed to ensure that those so admitted complete their studies satisfactorily and meet admission requirements.
Appeal of Admission Decision
Section 89030.7 of the California Education Code requires that the CSU establishes specific requirements for appeal procedures for a denial of admission. Each CSU must publish appeal procedures for applicants denied admission to the university. The procedure is limited to addressing university decisions to deny an applicant admission to the university.
Admission appeal procedures must address the basis for appeals, provide 15 business days for an applicant to submit an appeal, stipulate a maximum of one appeal per academic term, provide specific contact information for the individual or office to which the appeal should be submitted and indicate a time estimate for when the university expects to respond to an appeal. The appeal procedures must be included in all denial of admission notifications to students and must also be published on the university website.
Chico State Admission Denial Appeal Policy
If you were denied admission, consideration for denial appeals is based on new, serious, and compelling information. You have 15 business days from the date you receive your denial letter in the mail to submit a hard copy letter of appeal to the Appeal Committee. The committee must see a demonstrated need to repeal the denial decision based on the new information being submitted. To submit an appeal, download the Appeal Coversheet and complete as directed. You are entitled to one appeal per academic term.
Hardship Petitions
The university has established procedures for consideration of qualified applicants who would be faced with extreme hardship if not admitted. Petitioners should write to the university Admission Office regarding specific policies governing hardship admission.
Reservation
The university reserves the right to select its students and deny admission to the university or any of its programs as the university, in its sole discretion, determines appropriate based on an applicant's suitability and the best interests of the university.
After Admission
Transfer Credit Evaluation
Once you have been admitted to the university and submitted your Intent to Enroll, an admission transfer advisor will analyze and report your advanced placement course credit, transfer, and other credit for which you may be eligible. Please note that you may not be correctly classified as to the proper class level until all transcripts have been received and properly evaluated.
Once you enroll, the Office of the Registrar will establish a permanent student record for you. This permanent record will eventually include your official transcript of all courses taken at Chico State and their associated grades. Your student record may also include a recording of additional credit for which you may be eligible by virtue of specific tests, examinations, and a summary record of all transfer credit from previous colleges or universities you may have attended, as well as an evaluation of how those credits may apply to academic program requirements at Chico State. See Academic Advising Programs for information regarding transfer credit evaluation and Student Records and Registration for additional discussion of records and registration processes and procedures.
New Student Advising and Orientation
Before the beginning of each semester, Orientation and New Student Programs coordinates new student orientation and advising sessions that provide the most comprehensive advising assistance Chico State offers to new students.
Placement Measures for First-Year GE Written Communication and Mathematics/Quantitative Reasoning Courses
Freshman skills assessment and placement for general education written communication and mathematics/quantitative reasoning shall be based on system-wide skills assessment standards that include the Early Assessment Program/Smarter Balanced Achievement Levels, ACT scores, and/or SAT scores, high school coursework, high school GPA, and math GPA. Skills assessments are not a condition for admission to the CSU; they are a condition of enrollment. These skills assessments are designed to inform entering freshmen of placement in appropriate baccalaureate-level courses based on their skills and needs.
First-time freshmen in need of support as determined by the skills assessment will be placed in supported instruction. Supported instruction is designed to assist students in credit-bearing courses.
Assessment and Placement Measures for GE Written Communications
Has Fulfilled the GE Subarea A2 English Requirement
The student has met the requirement via completion of one of the following:
- Advanced Placement (AP) Test
- 3 or above: AP Language and Composition
- 3 or above: AP Composition and Literature
- Completed approved college course that satisfies CSU GE Area A2 (written communication) with a grade of C- or better
Placement in a GE Subarea A2 English Course
The student has met the examination standards and/or multiple measures-informed standards via one of the criteria below:
- English CAASPP/EAP Test:
- Standard Exceeded
- Standard Met and completed 12th grade approved year-long English course (CSU ERWC, AP, Weighted Honors English) with grade of C- or higher
- 550 or above
- 510-540 and completed 12th grade approved year-long English course (CSU ERWC, AP, Weighted Honors English) with grade of C- or higher
- 22 or higher
- 19-21 and completed 12th grade approved year-long English course (CSU ERWC, AP, Weighted Honors English) with grade of C- or higher
- Weighted GPA 3.3 or above
- GPA 3.0 or above and completed 12th grade approved year-long English course (CSU ERWC, AP, Weighted Honors English) with grade of C- or higher
- GPA 3.0 or above and completed Honors English course
- GPA 3.0 or above and 5 or more years of high school English
Placement in a Supported GE Subarea A2 English Course
The student has met the examination standards and/or multiple measures-informed standards via one of the criteria below:
- SAT English Test:
- 510-540 and 4 or more years of high school English
- 19-21 and 4 or more years of high school English
- Weighted GPA 3.0 or above and 4 or more years of high school English
International Student English Placement Policy–International Non-native Speaker
All foreign non-native speakers of English must follow an ESL-designated track for completion of GE Area A2, unless they meet the domestic student SAT/ACT benchmark for being GE Ready.
Students without a qualifying English proficiency exam score or SAT/ACT score are placed in the English stretch course, EFLN 170 . Following completion of EFLN 170 , these students are placed in ENGL 130EW with a co-requisite ESL support course, ENGL 131E .
Students who receive a TOEFL/IELTS waiver at the time of application due to completion of 3 or more years of secondary education in an English-speaking country (list available on International Admissions website) are placed in the ESL track of GE Area A2, ENGL 130EW , with the ENGL 131 Writing Workshop support course. If these students meet a domestic benchmark for GE Ready, such as SAT/ACT, they are given the option to select ENGL 130EW or ENGL 130W .
International students with a GE Ready qualifying TOEFL/IELTS score are given the option to enroll in the ESL support course if desired. International students with a qualifying SAT/ACT score that meets the domestic student benchmark for GE Ready are given the option to select the non-native or native speaker versions of Academic Writing, ENGL 130EW or ENGL 130W , or JOUR 130W .
- Intensive English Program (ALCI or equivalent):
- EFLN 170 then
- ENGL 130EW and ENGL 131E
- EFLN 170 then
- ENGL 130EW and ENGL 131E
- ENGL 130EW and ENGL 131E
- ENGL 130EW and ENGL 131E or
- ENGL 130EW
- ENGL 130EW or
- ENGL 130W or
- JOUR 130W
International Student English Placement Policy–International Native Speaker
All foreign native speakers of English without a qualifying SAT/ACT score will be advised to take the Directed Self Placement to determine whether the English support course ( ENGL 131 ) is needed. Like domestic native speakers, all students with a qualifying SAT/ACT score will be categorized as GE Ready and placed in ENGL 130W or JOUR 130W .
- No Measure:
- Directed Self Placement, then
- ENGL 130W and ENGL 131 or
- ENGL 130W
- ENGL 130W or
- JOUR 130W
Placement in a Supported GE Subarea B4 Math/Quantitative Reasoning Requirement
Based on multiple measures evaluation, student needs additional academic support.
Assessments and Placement Measures for GE Mathematics/Quantitative Reasoning: Non-Math Intensive Majors (Algebra and Statistics Disciplines, Non-STEM, and Undecided Majors)
Has Fulfilled the GE Subarea B4 Mathematics/Quantitative Reasoning Requirement
The student has met the requirement via completion of one of the following:
- Advanced Placement (AP) Test
- 3 or above: AP Calculus AB
- 3 or above: AP Calculus BC
- 3 or above: AP Statistics
- 3 or above: AP Computer Science Principles
- 4 or above on Math Higher Level (HL)
- 50 or above on: Calculus, College Algebra, College Algebra-Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, or Trigonometry
- Completed approved college course that satisfies CSU GE Area B4 (mathematics/quantitative reasoning) with a grade of C- or higher
Placement in a GE Subarea B4 Math/Quantitative Reasoning Requirement
The student has met the examination standards and/or multiple measures-informed standards via one of the criteria below:
- CAASPP/EAP Math Exam:
- Standard Exceeded
- Standard Met and completed 12th grade approved year-long math course beyond Algebra 2 with C- or higher
- Standard Met and 4 or more years of high school math or quantitative reasoning
- 570 or above
- 550 or above on Subject Test in Math Level 1 or 2
- 520-560 and completed 12th grade approved year-long math course beyond Algebra 2 with C- or higher
- 23 or higher
- 20-22 and completed 12th grade approved year-long math course beyond Algebra 2 with C- or higher
- Weighted math GPA 3.0 or above and completed 12th grade approved year-long math course beyond Algebra 2 with C- or higher
- Weighted math GPA 3.0 or above and 5 or more years of high school math or quantitative reasoning
- Weighted high school GPA 3.7 or above
- Weighted high school GPA 3.5 or above and 4 or more years of high school math or quantitative reasoning
Placement in a Supported GE Subarea B4 Math/Quantitative Reasoning Requirement
The student has met the examination standards and/or multiple measures-informed standards via one of the criteria below:
- High School Courses and GPA:
- Weighted math GPA 3.3 or above
- Weighted high school GPA 3.0 or above
Assessments and Placement Measures for GE Mathematics/Quantitative Reasoning: Pre-STEM/STEM and Other Math-Intensive Majors
Has Fulfilled the GE Subarea B4 Mathematics/Quantitative Reasoning Requirement
The student has met the requirement via completion of one of the following:
- Advanced Placement (AP) Test
- 3 or above: AP Calculus AB
- 3 or above: AP Calculus BC
- 3 or above: AP Statistics
- 3 or above: AP Computer Science Principles
- 4 or above on Math Higher Level (HL)
- 50 or above on: Calculus, College Algebra, College Algebra-Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, or Trigonometry
- Completed approved college course that satisfies CSU GE Area B4 (mathematics/quantitative reasoning) with a grade of C- or higher
Placement in a GE Subarea B4 Math/Quantitative Reasoning Requirement
The student has met the examination standards and/or multiple measures-informed standards via one of the criteria below:
- CAASPP/EAP Math Exam:
- Standard Exceeded
- Standard Met and completed 12th grade approved year-long math course beyond Algebra 2 with C- or higher
- 570 or above
- 550 or above on Subject Test in Math Level 1 or 2
- 520-560 and completed 12th grade approved year-long math course beyond Algebra 2 with C- or higher
- 23 or higher
- 20-22 and completed 12th grade approved year-long math course beyond Algebra 2 with C- or higher
- Weighted math GPA 3.5 or above and completed 12th grade approved year-long math course beyond Algebra 2 with C- or higher
- Weighted math GPA 3.5 or above and 5 or more years of high school math or quantitative reasoning
- Weighted high school GPA 3.7 or above
Placement in a GE Subarea B4 Math/Quantitative Reasoning with Support
The student has met the examination standards and/or multiple measures-informed standards via one of the criteria below:
- High School Math GPA:
- Weighted math GPA 3.3 or above
CSU Immunizations Requirements
Entering CSU students are required to present proof of the following immunizations to the CSU they will be attending before the beginning of their first term of enrollment.
To avoid a hold being placed on your registration that may result in delays or denial of access to registration, you must secure proof of immunity and be prepared to present it as required to the WellCat Health Center. Proof of immunizations may be obtained from your high school records, personal physician, your county health department, or the WellCat Health Center on campus.
The CSU Immunization Requirements policy applies to undergraduate and graduate students, students matriculated in self-support degree programs, and K-12 students participating in concurrent enrollment courses entering the California State University (CSU) in or after fall 2023.
Immunization and Screening, Recommendations and Requirements are adopted from the American College Health Association (ACHA) Immunization Recommendations for College Students, and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Immunization & Screening Recommendations for College Students.
See the CSU Immunization Requirements policy for more information regarding additional authorized discretionary requirements, academic program and fieldwork or clinical placement requirements, or immunization access.
NOTE: Any revisions of the CDPH recommendations for colleges and universities as of February 1, each year, will be reflected in CSU recommendations for the subsequent fall academic term.
Exemptions
A student may be exempted from any requirements in this policy as described below:
Medical Exemption: due to a medical condition for which an Approved Vaccine presents a significant risk of a serious adverse reaction. Any medical Exemption must be verified by a certified or licensed healthcare professional.
Religious Exemption: due to either (i) a person's sincerely held religious belief, observance, or practice, which includes any traditionally recognized religion, or (ii) beliefs, observances, or practices which an individual sincerely holds and that occupy a place of importance in that individual's life, comparable to that of traditionally recognized religions.
Required Immunization
Hepatitis B (Hep B) – Ages 18 and younger as per California law (HSC sections 120390-120390-7), enrollees who are 18 years of age or younger are required to provide proof of full immunization against the hepatitis B virus prior to enrollment.
Immunization and Screening Recommendations
The CSU recommends that students are current for the immunizations listed below. Immunizations and screening recommendations, and immunization schedules are linked above.
Recommended Vaccines to Reduce Outbreaks
- Influenza Vaccine
- Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
- Meningococcal Conjugate (Serogroups A, C, Y, W-135) Vaccine
- Serogroup B Meningococcal Vaccine
- Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine
- Varicella (Chickenpox) Vaccine
Other Vaccines Recommended for Adults
- Hepatitis A (Hep A) Vaccine
- Hepatitis B (Hep B) Vaccine – Ages 19 and older
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine
- Pneumococcal Vaccine
- Polio Vaccine
Recommend Screening
- Tuberculosis Screen/Risk Assessment (TB)
The above are not admission requirements but are required of students as conditions of enrollment in CSU.
Registration For Courses
Online registration occurs for new students from June through August for the fall semester, and from November through January for the spring semester. For specific dates, see the Academic Calendar. Please also see Student Records and Registration for an overview of registration. For detailed course request and registration instructions, special registration notices, and other information you need to request and register for classes, see the Class Schedule.
Access and Academic Development Programs
One of the goals at Chico State is to assist students from educationally or economically disadvantaged backgrounds to increase their access to Chico State and support their academic success and retention while they are here. The following programs provide a variety of services and assistance in pursuit of these goals.
The Educational Opportunity Program
Student Services Center 310
530-898-4028
eopadm@csuchico.edu
Associate Director: Victoria BassThe Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) assists first-generation college students who are historically low-income, academically underprepared, or lacking the subject requirements, grades, or test scores normally required for college attendance, but who have demonstrated the potential for academic success. Students who are academically eligible for regular admission to the University and meet EOP criteria may also apply. To be eligible for EOP admission, you must be an undergraduate and a California resident or qualify for an AB 540 nonresident tuition exemption.
To apply for admission through EOP, applicants must first submit the CSU application through Cal State Apply. Next, the applicant must submit the separate online EOP application, which includes the EOP applicant information form and recommendation forms.
Educational Talent Search
Student Services Center 470
530-898-4429
Director: Diana Parra-VillaseñorEducational Talent Search (ETS) is a federal TRiO Program that motivates and prepares low-income, first-generation college students for success in postsecondary education. ETS serves 1,300 students in grades 6-12 that attend 23 target schools. ETS provides students with the confidence and skills needed for success in postsecondary education. ETS offers workshops and activities, including college exploration, career/major exploration, university visits, leadership conferences, summer programs, study skills, goal-setting, ACT/SAT prep, help to complete college applications, financial aid, and scholarships.
High School Scholars
Student Services Center 130
530-898-6322
swood16@csuchico.edu
Coordinator: Sarah WoodChico State cooperates with high schools within its Northern California service area to provide the High School Scholars registration fee waiver program for promising high school students to enrich their junior or senior year by enrolling concurrently in one or two designated university courses. The goal is to provide these high school students with an understanding of the expectations and opportunities provided by a college education. To participate, students must have earned a grade B or higher in their high school college preparatory coursework. A special application form is required and may be obtained in the Office of Admissions. Approval to take courses is granted on a semester-by-semester basis and does not constitute the right to continued enrollment.
MESA Engineering Program-MEP
O'Connell Technology Center 114
530-898-4017
mep@csuchico.edu
Director: Lupe JimenezThe MESA Engineering Program is a comprehensive recruitment, retention, and graduation program that assists educationally and economically disadvantaged students in pursuit of degrees in the engineering computer science and other technical disciplines under the College of Engineering, Computer Science and Construction Management. Professional development workshops, tutoring, financial assistance, and academic advising are just some of the services offered.
MESA Schools Program-MSP
Student Services Center 470
530-898-4429
msp@csuchico.edu
Director: Diana Parra-VillaseñorThe MESA Schools Program (MSP) is an academic enrichment initiative that partners with local area junior and senior high schools to inspire and prepare economically and educationally disadvantaged students for achievement in higher education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields of study. The MSP model includes project-based math/science learning, academic planning skill development, career and college exploration, parent empowerment, and teacher professional development.
Student Support Services
Student Services Center 310
530-898-6831
sss@csuchico.edu
Project Director: Katherin Razo-GomezStudent Support Services (SSS) is committed to helping low-income, first-generation college students and students with disabilities achieve a bachelor's degree. SSS provides services such as academic and personal counseling, financial literacy, study skills assistance, and cultural activities. Career planning and graduate school advising are also offered to participants. Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, the goal of SSS is to increase the college retention and graduation rates of its participants and to encourage them to pursue an advanced degree. Students who are not eligible to apply through EOP (residents of states other than California) may be eligible to apply to SSS.
Upward Bound
Student Services Center 392
530-898-5181
hnavarro1@csuchico.edu
Director: Maria MorenoThe Upward Bound Project prepares low-income and first-generation high school students for success in postsecondary education. Participants take part in a six-week summer residential program at Chico State that includes college preparation courses, workshops, enrichment, and extracurricular activities. The summer program provides participants with an intensive growth experience through opportunity. This type of commitment continues throughout the academic year when the participants receive individualized tutoring. The academic and summer components work together to prepare participants for a college education and a promising future.
We acknowledge and are mindful that Chico State stands on lands that were originally occupied by the first people of this area, the Mechoopda, and we recognize their distinctive spiritual relationship with this land, the flora, the fauna, and the waters that run through campus. We are humbled that our campus resides upon sacred lands that since time immemorial have sustained the Mechoopda people and continue to do so today.
- Directed Self Placement, then
- EFLN 170 then