department menu
  • EOP Prospective Students

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. 

Applicants must:

  • Be California residents
  • 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 (noted below)
  • Demonstrate the family is unable to provide an annual contribution of more than $1,500 (EFC) toward their college expenses
  • Display academic potential and motivation to succeed in college

Income Guidelines (2021-2022):

*These guidelines are intended to identify and give priority to the most financially needy applicants.

Dependent Student
Dependents Annual Income
2 $38,300
3 $43,800
4 $51,600
5 $59,000
6 $67,300
7 $73,700
8 $80,200
Independent Student  
Dependents Annual Income
1
Single, No dependents 		$16,500
2
Married, No dependents other than spouse		 $28,700
2
With dependents other than spouse		 $49,400
3 $57,500
4 $68,600
5 $79,100
6 $90,700
7 $99,900
8 $109,800
 

Application Tips:

  • 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 campus deadline.
    • Follow up with recommenders to avoid missing recommendation letters.
  • Check your emails regularly for communications regarding your admissions status to both CSUSM and EOP.
  • View the Application Preparation Worksheet to help you prepare.