
Future Residents
FALL 2023 NOW OPEN!
Spring and Summer 2023 applications are still open.
With studies that show students who live on campus graduate sooner and succeed academically at higher rates than students who live off-campus, all students are encouraged to live in Student Housing for at least two years. Student Housing at CSU San Marcos offers a variety of housing options ideally suited for incoming freshmen, returning undergraduate and graduate students.
Living in Student Housing is the ultimate way to experience CSU San Marcos, as you'll find plenty of opportunities to expand your academic knowledge, build friendships and explore the diverse campus culture. As a resident student, you'll have immediate access to your professors, the library, computer labs, and recreational facilities, all in a convenient and practical environment. You'll spend no time commuting and parking, providing you with more time for studying, socializing, working, exercising, or pursuing your personal interests.
This is not just "a place to live." Student Housing is your gateway to the complete CSU San Marcos experience, the place to succeed.
Family Move-in Meetings
The Family Move-in Meetings will be scheduled closer to fall move in. This meeting will be an opportunity to connect with campus partners to hear about the move in process and understand policies/procedures connected to our new climate to ensure health and security for all. Additionally, this session aims to provide support for families transitioning students to independent living.
If you are interested in attending, you will have a chance to RSVP when the meetings are scheduled.
Meal Plans
For information on Dining Services, visit www.csusm.edu/dining or email dining@csusm.edu. Fall 2023 Meal Plans will be available for purchase beginning May 1, 2023.

Meal Plan Information
Meal Plan OverviewUsing your Meal Plan
Meal Plan FAQsCalFresh and EBT
First-time Student Live on Requirement
Since the beginning in Fall 2012, all first time students admitted from outside the CSUSM Local Admissions Area are required to live in CSUSM Student Housing for their first year.
The University highly encourages all students to live in student housing at least two years while studying at the University. If you are from outside the CSUSM Local Admissions Area and required to live in Student Housing, you will not be able to register for New Student Orientation or register for classes without completing the Student Housing contract process or requesting and receiving approval to be exempt from the live-on requirement.
If you have questions about the exemption process or need assistance completing the form, please contact housing, at (760) 750-3711. You can also email your questions regarding housing exemptions to housing@csusm.edu.