You are considered a First-Time in College applicant if you are currently in high school or a high school graduate who has not earned college credit after the summer immediately following high school.
We’re here to help! Call us Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., to talk directly to an admissions expert. Or use live chat during our open hours. No automated voice messages—we promise!
Phone: 530-898-6322
Email: info@csuchico.edu
Often called a “freshman” or “first-year” student, you can apply as a First-Time in College student if you:
If you are an international applicant who will need an F or J visa to study in the United States, please see the International Freshman page.
Chico State accepts first-time-in-college applications for fall (August) and spring (January) semester starts. Learn more about our application process, requirements, and how to submit your application materials.
All types of domestic undergraduate (seeking a bachelor’s degree) students can apply to start classes in fall or spring semesters. Submit your Cal State Apply application before the application deadline for consideration.
Fall Semester: October 1–December 15
Spring Semester: August 1–September 30
Confirm your spot in the Wildcat Family by accepting your admissions offer prior to the deadline.
Fall Semester: May 1
Spring Semester: November 15
You’ve heard it before: you can be anything you want. Chico State is a place where you can bring that goal to life. Our 70+ majors open access to boundless career opportunities. And with many majors boasting a 100 percent job-placement rate, your future is closer than ever.
Review the admissions criteria for grades and coursework to determine your eligibility.
Learn about application due dates, financial aid filing periods, housing deadlines, special events, and more.
Calculate and review your costs of attendance as well as learn about the types of financial aid available.
Chico State’s Wildcat Way Supportive Pathways ensures all students are fully prepared for academic success starting from the first day on campus. It begins with advising and summer success opportunities, along with ongoing support throughout the year. You’ll have all you need for academic success and
Whether you’re applying from out of state, the first generation in your family to go to college, or looking for structured support, we have many programs that help make Chico State affordable and easy to navigate.
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a scholarship program that allows students from certain Western states and territories to pay a reduced out-of-state tuition fee. You may save up to $9,000 a year through this program!
Helping low-income and first-generation students, the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) provides personalized advising and support resources. If you have the motivation to succeed, EOP is here to help you make it happen.
Students majoring in agricultural business, business administration, communication sciences and disorders, or English who participate in the California Promise program receive advising and support along with a guarantee that you will graduate in four years.
Chico State is partnered the California College Guidance Initiative, local high school districts, and community colleges to provide useful tools and guaranteed admission to students in participating schools.
Did you get an offer of admission and are wondering what you need to do next? Learn more about the steps you need to take and the things to remember after you have been selected for Chico State.
We’re here to help! Call us Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., to talk directly to an admissions expert. Or use live chat during our open hours. No automated voice messages—we promise!
Phone: 530-898-6322
Email: info@csuchico.edu