I want to apply...

An international Master's applicant is a student who wishes to study at our university on an F-1 (student) visa, who has received a post-secondary degree from a regionally accredited college or university within the United States or outside the Unites States that meets our accreditation standards.

Minimum University Admission Requirements

NOTE: This information below is the minimum university requirements. Applicants must meet the specific admissions criteria for the program of their choice. Please scroll down for detailed admission criteria for each master's program at CSUSM.

Equivalent of a Bachelor's Degree from an institution that meets our accreditation standards
Minimum overall 2.5 GPA or higher in the overall degree or last 60 units attempted (check individual program requirements below for program specific GPA requirements)
Satisfy English Language Proficiency Requirement
IMPORTANT NOTE: All foreign degrees not completed in the US MUST be submitted to one of the approved Foreign Transcript Evaluation Agencies.

How to Apply

Graduate programs may require additional documents for the application process. You must visit the respective graduate program website and follow the instructions carefully for any program-specific admission requirements and deadlines. Application deadlines vary.

Show All

University Application
1. University Application:
  - - TWO OPTIONS:
      
      OPTION ONE: Apply online at www.calstate.edu/apply-
      
      Email iapply@csusm.edu if you need assistance. Resource for the online application: Application Guide for online application
Or, if you are having difficulty, you can apply with our paper application:
- - - OPTION TWO: Use the paper application– complete the form and return it to us
Transcripts

2. All official post-secondary academic records including certificates, mark sheets, examination grades, degrees or diplomas in the original language of issue through the postal mail in a school-sealed envelope. Copies will be accepted for the admission decision processing. Submit unofficials immediately to: UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENTS

Official English translations of all academic records including certificates, degrees or diplomas

IMPORTANT NOTE: All foreign degrees not completed in the US MUST be submitted to one of the approved Foreign Transcript Evaluation Agencies.

Official international coursework marksheets/transcripts/graduation certificate must be sent through postal mail directly to CSUSM after you have been accepted

US coursework can be sent electronically. US schools and colleges can send US transcripts directly to CSUSM at transcripts@csusm.edu.
Affidavit of Financial Support
Submit your affidavit of financial support form, must include bank statements
- - Spring 2026 and Fall 2026: Use this form: Affidavit of Financial Support
  - Or, submit loan or scholarship letters for I20 issuance.
Passport
Copy of your Passport
English language requirement
Satisfy the English Language Proficiency Requirement - If you do not meet the English language proficiency for graduate admission you may apply for conditional admission for select graduate programs through our American Language & Culture Institute. To be eligible for ALCI conditional admission, you must meet the undergraduate English language proficiency requirement. Please contact the International Admission Office for more details at iapply@csusm.edu.

EXPEDITE PROCESSING: Send your unofficial transcripts and copies of documents for an admission decision by: Uploading Your Documents Online. Be sure to change the file name to: your full name and email address.

GRADUATE PROGRAMS:

APPLICATION DEADLINES & ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

SPRING 2026 (term starts on January 20, 2026) ACCEPTING APPLICATION NOW! Scroll down to individual program & requirements.

Show All

Master in Biological Sciences (STEM)
Apply: (August 1, 2025 to October 31, 2025)

By invitation only. Email: the department directly by email at: jjameson@csusm.edu.

Master in Biological Sciences (STEM) - a research-based Master of Science (MS) degree.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Please visit MS Biology website and read the graduate program handbook and contact a faculty member to discuss research opportunities.
- Bachelor’s degree in biological science or related science
- 3.0 in last 35 semester units of math and science
- 3 letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Resume
- GRE - not required/optional
- Graduate Coordinator: Dr. Julie Jameson
  
  Email: jjameson@csusm.edu
Master in Computer Science (STEM)
APPLY: (OPEN NOW to November 15, 2025)

Master in Computer Science (EL) STEM
Non-Thesis-18 months *NEW PROGRAM*
- Bachelor's degree in computer science or a closely related field with a minimum GPA of 2.5
- Applicants from non-CS backgrounds must demonstrate proficiency in core CS areas (see below)
- Prerequisite requirements:
  - MATH 270 Basic Discrete Mathematics
  - CS 311 Data Structures and Algorithms
  - CS 351 Programming Languages  
- Statement of Purpose: 1-2 pages describing applicant's academic background, professional goals and motivation for pursuing the MS program
- Résumé or CV (optional): Including applicant's academic background, relevant work experience and technical skills
- Letters of recommendation (optional): These letters should provide insights into the applicant's academic abilities, work ethic and character.
- GRE: not required/optional
Master in History
Apply: (August 1, 2025 to October 31, 2025)

Master in History
- Applicants must have a Bachelor's degree from anaccredited university in history or an allied fieldwith at least four upper-division courses in history
- GPA 3.0 overall minimum
- 3 letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- A writing sample (academic writing sample)
- Statement of research intent (750 word)
- GRE: not required
Master in Mathematics (STEM)
Apply: (August 1, 2025 to October 31, 2025)

Master in Mathematics (STEM)
- Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics or related field (such as computer science) which includes the equivalent of the following four key courses with a grade of B or higher:
- Linear Algebra MATH 430
- Foundations of AnalysisMATH 470
- Introduction to Abstract Algebra
and an additional senior-level proof-based mathematics course
- 2.5 GPA in the last sixty (60) units
- 2 letters of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- GRE: not required/optional
Master in Spanish
Apply: (August 1, 2025 to October 31, 2025)

Master in Spanish
- Bachelor's degree in Spanish from an accredited university or a Bachelor's degree in a closely related field with a minimum of 21 upper-division courses in Spanish (equivalent to our 400-level courses) with a grade of B or higher
- 3.0 in last 60 semester units
- 3 letters of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- One formal academic writing sample (in Spanish)
- GRE: not required/optional

FALL 2026: Scroll down to individual program & requirements

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Fall term starts on August 31, 2026. ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS NOW! GRE and GMAT tests are waived. Some programs will allow students to boost their application by submitting a GRE to supplement a lower GPA. APPLY EARLY!

Show All

Master in Biological Sciences (STEM)
Apply: (October 1, 2025 to March 1, 2026)

Master in Biological Sciences (STEM) - a research-based Master of Science (MS) degree.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Please visit MS Biology website and read the graduate program handbook and contact a faculty member to discuss research opportunities.
- Bachelor’s degree in biological science or related science
- 3.0 in last 35 semester units of math and science
- 3 letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Resume
- GRE - not required/optional
- Graduate Coordinator: Dr. Julie Jameson
  
  Email: jjameson@csusm.edu
Master in Biotechnology (STEM)
Apply: (October 1, 2025 to June 1, 2026) - or until cohort is full

Master in Biotechnology (EL) STEM

Applicants should have courses or experience in:
- - Molecular Cell Biology or Molecular/Cellular Biotechnology
  - Microbiology or Biology of Microorganisms
  - Statistics
  - Chemistry or Biochemistry
- Bachelor's degree with a major in a bioscience or chemistry or related area
- 2.5 in the last 60 units or 3.0 in the last 35 semester units of science and math
- 2 letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Resume
- GRE not required/optional
Master in Business Analytics (STEM)
Apply: (October 1, 2025 to June 1, 2026) - or until cohort is full

Master in Business Analytics (EL) STEM
- 3.0 in the last 60 semester units
- 1 letter of recommendation
- Statement of purpose: detailing your background, motivation and goals. You are encouraged to highlight your analytical background, coursework and work samples, as this information will be valuable for the admissions committee
- Resume
- GRE not required/optional
Master in Business Administration (MBA)
IMPORTANT UPDATE: Bachelor's degree in business is not required for admission. ALL MAJORS ACCEPTED!

CSUSM offers TWO MBA programs (AACSB Accredited)

1. Specialized MBA (SMBA) FALL START - An accelerated 12 month program for recent graduates (business and non-business majors) interested in pursuing an advanced business education MBA. Available specializations:
Apply: (October 1, 2025 to May 1, 2026) - or until cohort is full
- Have completed a 4-year college course of study from a regionally accredited institution or from an international institution that meets CSUSM accreditation standards in Business Administration - OR, approved 3-year degree equivalent
- 3.0 or better in last 60 semester units
- 1 letter of recommendation - have your recommender(s) complete the Recommendation for SMBA Applicant Form. Academic or professional recommendations are acceptable.
- Statement of Purpose
- Resume (work experience not required)
- GMAT not required/optional
***************************************

2. Fully Employed MBA (FEMBA) SUMMER START - 18 month program - Designed for applicants with previous work experience to cultivate leadership, management, and communication skills which will propel you further in your professional career.

Apply: (August 1, 2025 to March 1, 2026)
- Have completed a 4-year college course of study from a regionally accredited institution or from an international institution that meets CSUSM accreditation standards in Business Administration - OR, approved 3-year degree equivalent
- 3.0 or better in last 60 semester units or overall degree
- Applicant must have at least three years of full-time, professionally relevant work experience.
- Two Essays
  1. Personal Achievements: Submit a one-page essay on your on achievements which you consider to be the best indicators of your potential for a successful management career.
  2. Program Experience: Submit a one-page essay on the rewards and challenges you anticipate from the program, and how you expect the experience to enhance your management career.
- Two References
  - Provide the name and email address for three professional references. We will contact them to complete a recommendation for you.
  - References can use the following recommendation template.
- Resume
- GMAT not required/optional
Master in Chemistry (STEM)
Apply: (October 1, 2025 to May 31, 2026)

Master in Chemistry (STEM)
- Bachelor's degree with a major in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, biotechnology, or related field
- Overall GPA of 2.8
- The applicant must have completed the following prerequisite courses (or their equivalent): one year of Calculus, CHEM 202L, CHEM 275, CHEM 401. Chemistry and biochemistry options must visit website for additional course
- 3 letters of recommendation
- GRE: not required/optional
- Graduate Coordinator: Dr. Afra Panahi
  
  Email: apanahi@csusm.edu
Master in Computer Science (STEM)
CSUSM NOW offers TWO Master in Computer Science programs

APPLY: (October 1, 2025 to May 1, 2026)

Master in Computer Science (EL) STEM
Non-Thesis-18 months *NEW PROGRAM*
- Bachelor's degree in computer science or a closely related field with a minimum GPA of 2.5
- Applicants from non-CS backgrounds must demonstrate proficiency in core CS areas (see below)
- Prerequisite requirements:
  - MATH 270 Basic Discrete Mathematics
  - CS 311 Data Structures and Algorithms
  - CS 351 Programming Languages  
- Statement of Purpose: 1-2 pages describing applicant's academic background, professional goals and motivation for pursuing the MS program
- Résumé or CV (optional): Including applicant's academic background, relevant work experience and technical skills
- Letters of recommendation (optional): These letters should provide insights into the applicant's academic abilities, work ethic and character.
- GRE: not required/optional
***************************************

Master in Computer Science (STEM) Thesis required - 24 months
- GPA of 75% (or 3.0) or higher
Courses needed to make up undergraduate deficiencies:
- CS 311 Data Structures -- You must have passed this class before starting the Master's degree.
- CS 331 Computer Architecture (after CS 231)
- CS 351 Programming Languages
- CS 433 Operating Systems
- CS 370 Software Engineering
- MATH 270 Discrete Mathematics
If you have 3 prerequisite courses or less you can be admitted as conditionally classified.
- 3 letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Resume recommended/no work experience required
- GRE: not required/optional
Master in Cybersecurity
Apply: (October 1, 2025 to June 1, 2026- online only) THIS PROGRAM IS 100% ONLINE. We do not issue an I20 for this program.

Master in Cybersecurity (EL) ONLINE
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science or equivalent education background
- 2.5 GPA in last 60 units
- 2 letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Resume
- GRE: not required/optional
Master in History
Apply: (October 1, 2025 to March 15, 2026)

Master in History
- Applicants must have a Bachelor's degree from anaccredited university in history or an allied fieldwith at least four upper-division courses in history
- GPA 3.0 overall minimum
- 3 letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- A writing sample (academic writing sample)
- Statement of research intent (750 word)
- GRE: not required/optional
Master in Kinesiology
Apply: (October 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026)

Master in Kinesiology
- Undergraduate degree in Kinesiology/Exercise Science or related field
- 3.0 GPA
- 2 Letters of Recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- GRE: not required
Master in Literature & Writing Studies
Apply: (October 1, 2025 to March 1, 2026)

Master in Literature & Writing Studies
- Bachelor’s degree in English, literature and writing, comparative literature, rhetoric, linguistics, or similar program
- 3.0 in last 60 semester units
- 3 letters of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- A writing sample (an analytical essay of no less than 5 pages on a literary topic)
- GRE: not required/optional
Master in Mathematics (STEM)
Apply: (October 1, 2025 to May 30, 2026)

Master in Mathematics (STEM)
- Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics or related field (such as computer science) which includes the equivalent of the following four key courses with a grade of B or higher:
  - Linear Algebra MATH 430
  - Foundations of Analysis MATH 470
  - Introduction to Abstract Algebra
and an additional senior-level proof-based mathematics course
- 2.5 GPA in the last sixty (60) units
- 2 letters of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- GRE: not required/optional
Master in Psychological Science
Apply: (October 1, 2025 to February 1, 2026)

Master in Psychological Science
- Bachelor’s degree in Psychology or related field with four upper division Psychology classes and one statistics class.
- 3.0 GPA in last 60 units
- 3 Letters of Recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Resume - optional
- GRE - not required/optional
Master in Public Health
Apply: (October 1, 2025 to June 1, 2026)

Master in Public Health (EL)
- GRE waived
- 2.5 GPA last 60 units
- Statistics course required
- 2 letters of recommendation
- Resume
- Statement of purpose
Master in Sociological Practice
Apply: (October 1, 2025 to March 1, 2026)

Master in Sociological Practice
- Bachelor’s degree in Sociology or a related undergraduate degree in one of the social sciences or in an interdisciplinary field from a four-year university
- Minimum 3.0 overall GPA
- 3 Letters of Recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Writing Sample: Your writing sample should be scholarly (and include in-text citations and references) and demonstrate your promise as a graduate student in Sociological Practice
- In addition to the letters, we ask you to answer two questions related to your interest and fit for our graduate program:
  1. The MASP program at CSUSM is very committed to issues of racial and social justice and takes a critical approach to studying social issues and problems. Please discuss your awareness of and experiences with these issues.
  2. As a program with a public sociology orientation, MASP values praxis (experience) as a tool to not just study, but to also solve social programs. Describe any relevant current or previous experiences with community groups, agencies, organizations, grassroots efforts, activism, employment, internships, service learning, and/or volunteering.
  3. You will answer these questions in Cal State Apply supplemental online application
- GRE: Not required/optional
Master in Social Work
Apply: (October 1, 2025 to January 31, 2026)

Master in Social Work
- Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Must also have completed an undergraduate statistics course with a grade of 'C' or better
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
- 3 letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Resume, verifying internship, paid/unpaid experience in social work/human services positions demonstrating 500 or more total hours of service. These 300 experience hours must be clearly indicated in the resume and the name and email address(es) of the supervisor(s) of these hours must be provided. A “social service” setting is an agency or organization that provides services designed to enhance or support the well-being of individuals, families, and communities in need.
- GRE: not required
Master in Supply Chain Analytics (STEM)
Apply: (October 1, 2025 to June 1, 2026) - NEW PROGRAM

Master in Science, Supply Chain Analytics (STEM)
- Have completed a 4-year college course of study from a regionally accredited institution or from an international institution that meets CSUSM accreditation standards in Business Administration - OR, approved 3-year degree equivalent
- 3.0 or better in last 60 semester units
- 1 letter of recommendation - have your recommender(s) complete the Recommendation for SMBA Applicant Form. Academic or professional recommendations are acceptable)
- Professional resume
- Statement of Purpose
- GRE/GMAT not required/optional
Master in Spanish
Apply: (October 1, 2025 to May 15, 2026)

Master in Spanish
- Bachelor's degree in Spanish from an accredited university or a Bachelor's degree in a closely related field with a minimum of 21 upper-division courses in Spanish (equivalent to our 400-level courses) with a grade of B or higher
- 3.0 in last 60 semester units
- 3 letters of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- One formal academic writing sample (in Spanish)
- GRE: not required/optional

Application Questions

Please contact International Admissions at iapply@csusm.edu.

*Appeal process for special consideration due to extenuating circumstances/demonstrable hardship may be considered, submit appeal to: iapply@csusm.edu.