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MANAGEMENT
Educational Opportunity Program

Apply

Admission Information

EOP at CSU San Marcos is open to incoming First Year Freshman and Transfer students seeking their first Bachelor's Degree. The program actively seeks prospective applicants who need admission assistance and support services to succeed in college. 

Fall Application Period

  • CSUSM Admission Application period (October 1st - December 15th)
    • This information is subject to change. If you need more detailed information, please contact CSUSM Office of Admissions directly for CSUSM Application date.
  • EOP Admission Application period (October 1st - January 15th)
    • Letters of Recommendation due by January 31st.
  • EOP Admission decision communication will be sent out end of April.

Spring Application Period

  • CSUSM Admission Application period is August 1st - September 30th. 
    • This information is subject to change. If you need more detailed information, please contact CSUSM Office of Admissions directly for CSUSM Application date.
  • EOP Admission Application for CSUSM is August 1st - August 31st.
    • Letters of Recommendation due by September 15th.
    • Spring 2023 extended deadlines:
      • EOP Application due September 30th
      • Letters of Recommendation due October 16th. 
  • Application decisions communication to be expected by end of November.

Applicants must

  • Be California residents or AB540 non-resident tuition exemption
  • Be a first-generation college student (neither parent graduated with a four-year university degree from the United States)
  • Submit a complete EOP application (2 Letter of Recommendation and Biographical Questions)
  • Meet EOP Income Eligibility Guidelines 
  • Have a history of limited-income (low-income status is not temporary)
    • EFC to demonstrate limited income is determined by the FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application
    • The EFC, Expected Family Contribution, is under $1500
  • Display academic potential and motivation to succeed in college

Application Tips

  • Review the full list of EOP Deadlines
  • Avoid using school emails as you may no longer have access once you have graduated.
  • Recommendation Letters
    • The Cal State Apply application will automatically set the deadline at two weeks from the day you request the EOP recommendation. 
    • Recommenders can complete the form after the two week automated deadline but must be received by the CSUSM EOP deadline.
    • Follow up with recommenders to avoid missing recommendation letters.
      • Contact Cal State Apply center to update/change recommenders.
  • Check your emails regularly for communications regarding your admissions status to both CSUSM and EOP.
  • View the Application Preparation Worksheet to help you prepare.

Begin Application

Helpful CSUSM Contact Information