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MANAGEMENT
Your  Account:
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Global Programs and Services (GPS)

Newly Admitted Students Coming from US Institution

 

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Step 1: Accept your Admission to CSUSM by Requesting your I-20

You may request your transfer I-20 by clicking on the link included in the email sent from International Admissions and the Office of Global Education. Please request your transfer I-20 as soon as possible.                                         

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Step 2: Request a transfer of your SEVIS record from your current International Student Advisor:

You will need to show them your CSU San Marcos Admission’s Letter. The transfer of your I-20 will only be done once you have completed your program of study at your previous school.

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Step 3: Review the International Student Handbook

International Student Handbook

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Step 4: Prepare your Finances

You must bring enough money to pay for your tuition, homestay or housing fees, health insurance, books, and personal expenses. Click on Tuition and Fees to view the estimated expenses per academic year for International Students.

Students will receive an email with detailed information regarding the Tuition Payment Plan.

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Step 5: Plan Housing Arrangements before you arrive

You must make housing arrangements before you leave your home country. You must confirm your on campus housing, homestay with a local family, or other off-campus housing before you arrive in San Marcos.The Office of Global Education cannot reserve housing for you. Please read the student housing options below.

Homestay with Local Families

Living with an American family in homestay is one of the best ways to learn about American culture and customs. Many students choose homestay for their first semester at the CSUSM. You may contact the following homestay agencies directly to apply for homestay (CSUSM does not monitor or endorse these agencies).

Campus Housing

CSUSM offers four options for on-campus housing: The UVA (University Village Apartments), the QUAD, North Commons, and Black Oak Hall. Please apply early. Campus Housing fills up many months before each semester. 

CSUSM Housing

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Step 6: Meet the Immunization and Health Insurance Requirements

You must complete the Office of Global Education Immunization Form BEFORE arrival, and maintain adequate health insurance all year round.

Immunizations:

All required immunizations/vaccinations should be obtained and submitted BEFORE you begin classes. You can view all requirements and submit your proof to Student Health and Counseling Services. Please do not send this information to your international advisors. 

IF students cannot provide proof of immunization, they must arrange these during their first semester of school. The CSU San Marcos Student Health and Counseling Services provides the immunizations.

Health Insurance:

ALL international students on an F-1 visa must have health insurance coverage for the full year:

    1. Purchase CSU-sponsored health insurance from United Health Care.
    2. You are encouraged to purchase your health insurance before you arrive.
    3.  Purchase CSU-sponsored health insurance HERE. 

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Step 7: Traveling Between Programs

You are allowed to travel and re-enter the U.S. between school programs. However, you must re-enter the U.S. with the CSU San Marcos I-20. Please make sure  you have received your I-20 from the Office of Global Education before your travels. Remember you must also have a valid visa to re-enter the U.S.

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Final Step: Attend International Student Orientation

Attendance for our International Student Orientation is MANDATORY. 

  • Fall 2026 Orientation Dates: August 25 - 27, 2026
  • Check in: TBD
  • Location: ELB 404
  • Parking: Parking Structure 2 (beside Extended Learning Building)

    • You will need to purchase a parking permit each day

    • Daily Rate: $9.00

Campus Map

We look forward to meeting you! 

If you have any questions please email: newintl@csusm.edu