How to Apply to California State University, Long Beach?

Hey folks, junior here! I'm starting the college app process and CSU Long Beach is high on my list. I'm a little bit confused about the application process though. Could someone who's applied before help me out?

Sure, applying to California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) is straightforward once you understand their process.

1. CSU Application: CSU campuses use a shared application called Cal State Apply. Head to the Cal State Apply website and create an account. After that, you can select CSULB along with any other CSU campuses you're considering.

2. Fill Your Application: Start filling out your application by providing general information about yourself. This will include your educational history, extracurricular activities, and, depending on your major and the specific requirements of CSULB, a self-report of your high school grades.

3. Statement of Purpose: While most Cal State schools, including CSU Long Beach, do not require an essay, some programs or schools within the university may need one. If this applies to you, you'll have room on the application to provide a statement of purpose. Make this specific to your experiences and what you hope to accomplish in the program you're applying to.

4. Letters of Recommendation: As a general rule, CSU schools, including CSULB, do not require letters of recommendation. However, there might be exceptions depending on the program you are applying to, so it is recommended to check the specific requirements of your intended program.

5. No Test Scores: For the 2024-2025 application cycle, CSU Long Beach is test-blind, which means this school does not consider SAT or ACT scores at all, so no need to worry about sending those in.

6. Application Fee: You'll likely have to pay an application fee when you submit. As of the 2024-2025 applications, the fee is $70 per campus. If you qualify for a fee waiver, you can apply to up to four Cal State campuses at no cost.

7. Submit Application: Once you're satisfied with your application, you can submit!

8. Application Tracking: After submitting, you can track your application status through the student portal. You'll receive login details for this after you've sent in your application.

The most important part of the CSU application process is to submit before the deadline to ensure your application is reviewed. The application filing period is October 1 to November 30.

Remember, admissions can be a bit different for each major, so it's important to review the specific requirements for the program you're interested in. Best of luck with your application to CSULB!