It’s important for us to be confident our new students are ready to take on the challenge of college academics. With this in mind, sometimes a student is not accepted when they first apply.
Although this can be a tough place to be in, it doesn’t mean that you need to give up on your goal of becoming a Ram. Here are a few steps you can take if you find yourself in this situation.
#1: Review your decision email.
The decision email you receive from CSU Admissions will include recommended next steps specifically tailored to your situation. Be sure to read the full message before you take any action.
#2: Contact your admissions counselor.
It’s important to talk with your admissions counselor before you move forward. They understand the ins and outs of the admission process and will have insight into the reasoning behind our admission decision.
Your admissions counselor can give you an honest assessment of whether our reconsideration process is right for you. They can also help you develop a timeline and action plan if you’d be better served applying again for a future term.
#3: Understand our reconsideration process.
Reconsideration happens when an applicant who was not offered admission presents compelling, new academic evidence supporting their current application. Reconsideration is allowed only once per application — be sure to discuss the process with your admissions counselor before taking this step.
You’ll be required to submit new academic information that changes your academic profile, such as an updated transcript and/or new test scores. New or additional supporting documents such as an academic explanation or recommendation are optional. They cannot be the sole basis for a new decision.
Keep in mind that there is a specific form that we require you to submit to request reconsideration. Do not submit a new application and fee for the same term. If you applied with Common App, contact us for access to the form.
#4: Strengthen your credentials and apply again in the future.
Your admissions counselor may recommend that you strengthen your academic profile and apply again for a future term. You can do this by completing coursework at another college or university.
Freshman or first-year applicants are typically advised to complete at least two semesters of transferable college-level work. This should include courses in mathematics and composition. Transfer applicants will receive more custom recommendations based on their transcripts.
CSU can still happen.
Sometimes it takes more time and energy to reach our goals than we had hoped for. But reaching them is what matters most. We’re here to help you succeed in making CSU a part of your future. Reach out and talk over your situation with us at any time.
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