Overview
California State University-San Marcos is an open admission public four-year institution in San Marcos, California. The school accepts most applicants who complete the application process.
Admission Guide
Apply through Cal State Apply, the system-wide application portal, with a November 30 deadline for fall admission. You'll need official transcripts from all colleges attended, and the application requires a $70 fee that covers up to four CSU campuses.
Nursing stands out as the most competitive program on campus, requiring separate application materials and higher academic standards than general admission. Computer science also draws heavy interest, though it remains more accessible than at other CSU campuses. Submit your nursing application early, as spots fill quickly despite the university's overall open admission approach.
Housing fills up fast for a campus this size. Apply for residence halls immediately after submitting your admission application, even before acceptance. The university guarantees housing only for first-year students who meet early deadlines, and many students end up commuting from surrounding areas when on-campus options run out.
Plan to attend Summer Bridge if you're invited. This pre-enrollment program helps with course placement and connects you with academic support services before classes begin. New Student Orientation is mandatory and includes registration for fall classes, so don't skip it.
The campus sits on traditional Luiseño land in North County San Diego, about 30 minutes from downtown. Public transportation options are limited, so having a car makes campus life significantly easier. Parking permits cost extra and popular lots fill early each day.
Course availability can be an issue, particularly in popular majors. Register as early as your appointment time allows, and consider summer classes to stay on track for graduation. The four-year graduation rate reflects this challenge, so plan your course sequence carefully with an academic advisor.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $10,550/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $7,739
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $19,619
- Students Receiving Aid
- 44%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 54.2%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $62,908/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 74.8%
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application deadline for California State University-San Marcos?
Cal State San Marcos uses rolling admissions with priority deadlines of November 30 for fall and August 31 for spring. Applications submitted after these dates are reviewed on a space-available basis.
Does California State University-San Marcos require SAT or ACT scores?
Cal State San Marcos is test-optional and does not require SAT or ACT scores for admission. Students can submit test scores if they believe the scores will strengthen their application.
What GPA do you need to transfer to California State University-San Marcos?
Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA in transferable college coursework. Students with 60+ transferable units do not need to meet high school admission requirements.
Does California State University-San Marcos have early admission programs?
Cal State San Marcos does not offer early decision or early action programs. All applications are processed through the standard CSU application system with rolling admissions.