As high school seniors begin the school year, eligible students may receive information by mail or email through the CSU Direct Admission Program, a statewide effort designed to connect students with California State University opportunities before they begin the application process.
"So direct admissions is really a proactive outreach to students, letting them know that they're CSU eligible and that they could be admitted or apply to up to 18 campuses of the CSU," said April Gromo, assistant vice chancellor for strategic enrollment management. "This program is really to support students in understanding what their options are as far as higher education after high school."
Under the program, students will receive one of three different notifications based on their academic progress toward completing the A-G coursework required for CSU admission.
Students who are on track to complete all A-G requirements will be notified that they are eligible to apply and qualify for guaranteed admission within the CSU system.
Those who are close to meeting the requirements will receive information encouraging them to work with their counselors to stay on track.
Students not expected to meet the requirements will receive guidance on starting at a community college and later transferring to a CSU campus.
"So, for students that aren't eligible for the CSU, we want them to come to us later," Gromo said. "This program helps them understand that they can go through the community college in two or three years and be guaranteed admission to a CSU campus at a future date."
The initiative builds on a pilot program launched in partnership with the Riverside County Office of Education in 2024. CSU officials said the pilot led to increases in applications, admissions and enrollment among participating students.
"I think the other thing that was exciting that we saw in Riverside County is that it actually increased their A-G completion rates," Gromo said. "So that was actually very exciting. They hadn't seen that big of a bump in a long time."
Following the pilot's success, the program was expanded statewide through Senate Bill 640, which was signed into law in 2025.
CSU leaders hope the program will reduce uncertainty surrounding the admissions process and help students and families make more informed decisions about their educational futures.
"It helps students and families understand their options and what's available," Gromo said. "And that they can make informed decisions about going to a community college, a California State University, or maybe they're eligible for a UC, so they understand what their options are before they start the application process."
Students are encouraged to work with their high school counselors to determine whether their district participates in the direct admission program and to learn more about their eligibility.
The CSU also offers a free online college and career planning tool to help students explore their options and prepare for higher education.
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