Frequently Asked Questions
APPLICATION FAQs
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How soon will I hear about the status of my admission application?
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How can I maximize my chances to get admitted to CSU, Fullerton?
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Do I need to send in SAT I or ACT results if I have a high GPA?
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Why do I need to take the placement tests: (English Placement Test (EPT) & Entry Level Math (ELM)?
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How can I get the maximum amount of financial aid available?
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What occurs once the Office of Financial Aid determines how much money I need to attend school?
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Why did my offer of award include an offer for a student loan?
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What happens to my offer of financial aid if I receive additional scholarship funds?
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I received a Housing contract. Do I need to send in the required deposit?
DONOR FAQs
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Why is the Guardian Scholars referred to as "more than a scholarship?"
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How are you able to offer a year of support with only $10,000 in private funding?
Application FAQs -- Answers
What do I do first?
The first step is to apply for admission to Cal State Fullerton. If you would like to apply online go to the Cal State University home page. This site also has helpful hints, frequently asked questions, campus tours, and general information about all 22 Cal State University campuses.
How do I apply?
It's easy to apply. Simply complete the 2005/2006 California State University Application for Admission. The application is available online at this site Admission Application or by downloading a paper application (in PDF format), completing it, and mailing it directly to the CSU, Fullerton. In addition, you may obtain an application at any California high school or California Community College counseling office. You can also contact any CSU campus admission or outreach office to request an application.
Can I use my computer to apply?
Yes! You can file the online application (Admission Application) right from this site. You can also apply for the fee waiver (pdf form) online using www.csumentor site. Click here to download the Guardian Scholars application (pdf form). (The pdf forms require Adobe Acrobat Reader to view. Acrobat Reader is free; download Adobe Acrobat Reader here.)
Where do I send my application?
If you are completing your application online, your completed admission application will be routed automatically to the CSU, Fullerton if you designated our campus as the school of your choice. Your paper applications must be sent to:
CSUF Admissions & Records
800 N. State College Blvd.
Fullerton, CA 92834
Do I have to pay to apply to CSU, Fullerton?
Normally an admission application requires that you pay a $55 application fee; however, if you earn below the income ceiling, you may qualify for a fee waiver. If you are filing your application online, then the fee waiver process is built in so you will not need to file a separate Request for an Application Fee Waiver. In some on-line applications, it is unclear if you are eligible to apply for a fee waiver. You will be instructed to submit a paper Request for Application Fee Waiver (pdf form) to CSU, Fullerton. (The pdf form requires Adobe Acrobat Reader to view. Acrobat Reader is free; download Adobe Acrobat Reader here.)
NOTE: If you submit the fee waiver and the Admission & Records Office determines you are not eligible for the waiver, you will be sent a bill for the $55 application fee.
How soon will I hear about the status of my admission application?
Normally you hear within a few weeks after filing your application. You will receive a letter from the Admission & Records office confirming your application was received and informing you what additional information they will need to process your application. You will be asked to submit a copy of your official high school transcript. Your "official" transcripts must be mailed to California State University, Fullerton in a sealed envelope directly from each high school or community college you attended.
When will I know if I am admitted?
You will receive an official notice of admittance from the Admission & Records Office. You can expedite the process by submitting the documentation requested by the Admissions Office.
How can I maximize my chances to get admitted to CSU, Fullerton?
Study hard; earn good grades, and signing up for the necessary high school coursework will be factors in getting admitted to any state university. Take a look at CSUMentor to get up to date information on college requirements. The CSUMentor website will help you track your progress as you prepare for college.
What are the admissions requirements?
The California State University system combines your high school grade point average and your score on either an SAT I or ACT . The best source of information for admission requirements is on the Web at www.csumentor.edu . The CSUMentor website also gives detailed admission requirements for transfer students.
When should I apply for admission to CSU, Fullerton?
October 1 - November 30 is the initial filing period for the fall term.
CSU, Fullerton will accept applications during the first month of the filing period, but it is advisable to apply as early as possible because acceptance of admission applications are subject to close at any time.
Do I need to send in SAT I or ACT results if I have a high GPA?
(click on the links above for information, test dates, and fees) ACT or SAT results are required from all California residents whose grade point average is less than a 3.00 and non-resident students whose grade point average is less than a 3.61. However, because SAT or ACT test results are evaluated for possible math (ELM) and English placement test (EPT) exemption it is recommended that you send them to the Admissions Office regardless of your grade point average.
Why do I need to take the placement tests: (English Placement Test (EPT) & Entry Level Math (ELM)?
All new undergraduate students entering the California State University are required to take the English Placement Test (EPT) except those who qualify for an exemption based upon high SAT or ACT scores.
If you are not exempt you must take the EPT prior to enrolling in your first semester (click here to see whether you are exempt). Failure to take the EPT will stop you from being allowed to register for classes. The English Placement Test is free of charge on all CSU campuses. Students may take the test on any CSU campus. Students should send their registration forms to the campus where they plan to take the test. Since the test is used to determine the English class you must take, you cannot repeat the EPT. For further information, contact Testing Services, UH-229, at (714) 278-3838 or visit the Testing Services website.
The ELM examination is the math placement test required to determine if you are prepared for college level courses that require a reasonable amount of mathematics. All new undergraduate students entering the California State University are required to take the Entry Level Mathematics examination (ELM) except those students who qualify for exemption due to scoring high on the SAT or ACT.
NOTE: If you are not exempt, you must take the ELM prior to your enrollment in the University. Failure to take the EML will stop you from being allowed to register for classes.
Is it true that I can receive money to go to college?
Federal and state funding is available to help you pay for college expenses. Annually the Office of Financial Aid calculates the costs associated with being a student at CSU, Fullerton. Cost includes fees (tuition), books and supplies, transportation, and miscellaneous living expenses you will have when attending college. If you are accepted into the Guardian Scholars program, you will receive federal and state financial aid. Normally the federal and state funds are not enough to cover the full cost of education. The Guardian Scholars program will award you scholarship funds to pay for the educationally related expenses not covered by the federal and state funding. The goal of the Guardian Scholars program is help you complete your Bachelor’s degree without applying for student loans.
How do you determine my financial aid eligibility?
Financial aid eligibility is calculated using formulas established by the Department of Education, which is a branch of the federal government. The Office of Financial Aid is mandated by law to use those formulas when determining how much you can contribute toward paying your college expenses. To apply for aid, you complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) either on-line or by picking up a paper FAFSA at any high school or community college. The information you provide on the FAFSA is used to calculate your financial contribution (called the EFC, or expected family contribution.) Your EFC is subtracted from the cost of education to determine how much you will receive in financial aid.
| 2006-2007 Cost of Education | = | $14,826 |
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| Your calculated contribution (EFC) | = | $0 |
| The amount you will receive in aid | = | $14,826 |
How can I get the maximum amount of financial aid available?
File the FAFSA between January 1st and March 2nd. By submitting the FAFSA before March 2nd, you are meeting the priority filing deadline date. You should also submit a G.P.A. Verification Form prior to the March 2nd deadline. You must reapply for aid every year!
When should I apply for financial aid?
The FAFSA priority deadline for the 2006-2007 school year is March 2, 2006; however you can apply until the end of May 2006 if you wish to apply for financial aid for the 2006-2007 award period. You must reapply for financial aid each year. It is best to file the FAFSA and GPA Verification form between January 1st and March 2nd.
What occurs once the Office of Financial Aid determines how much money I need to attend school?
If your EFC is zero, you will most likely qualify for the maximum aid available. If you live in the dorms for the 2006-2007 academic year, your aid is awarded on the following budget:
| Budget Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fees | $3,020 |
| Room and Board | $7,306 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| Travel | $1,000 |
| Miscellanous | $2,300 |
| TOTAL | $14,826 |
The estimated cost of education is an approximate budget. You may actually spend more or less than the amounts listed above. If you find that your actual costs are more than the amounts listed above, you will need to find a part-time job to help pay for those additional expenses.
What types of aid can I expect to receive?
There are four basic types of aid: grants, scholarships, loans and work-study. Because you are a Guardian Scholar, the goal is to award you only grants and scholarships–both fund types are free money that are designed to pay for your educationally related expenses.
How much and when?
The most important piece of information you'll need to know before starting the semester is how much money you'll receive and the date you can expect to receive your funds. Your cost for fees (tuition) and housing will not be due until your financial aid and scholarship funds are ready for disbursement which usually occurs the week before the start of each semester. The amount that you are awarded for the year is divided in two. You will receive half of your financial aid award in the fall, and the remaining half in the spring semester. The fees for your tuition and dorms are deducted from each semester's allocation, You receive a disbursement of the remaining balance of the funds per semester to pay for your books, supplies, food, clothes, etc. BE WISE!! That money must last for the remainder of the semester. You will not receive your next payment until the week before the next semester!
Why did my offer of award include an offer for a student loan?
Like most students applying for aid, your file is reviewed and packaged by a member of the Financial Aid staff. Once the computer assigns you a standard financial aid award, the Guardian Scholars staff meets with a Financial Aid counselor to revise your award to maximize your grant eligibility and to add your scholarship as part of your financial aid package. You will receive a revised award letter in the mail. Be aware that you will never receive a combination of grants and scholarships that exceed the established cost of education.
What happens to my offer of financial aid if I receive additional scholarship funds?
You can never receive a combination of grants and scholarships that exceed the established cost of education. For example, a Guardian Scholar receives a notification that he is eligible to receive $8,206 in grant funds and $5,000 from the Guardian Scholars account. In July the Office of Financial Aid is sent a scholarship check for that student in the amount of $1,000 from the ABC Corporation. The award must be revised so the total amounts from all funds do not exceed $13,206. In other words, the Office of Financial Aid staff would reduce the grant or Guardian Scholar award by $1000 to avoid having to bill the student the amount that was overpaid.
Where will I live?
Housing for students is available on campus. However, on-campus housing is limited. It is recommended that you apply on-line for housing. Apply early because space is limited. If you are selected as a Guardian Scholar, you are guaranteed a space in the dorms. The dorms have 3 bedrooms, 2-bath suite and accommodate 6 residents. The suites are air conditioned, carpeted, and fully furnished.
I received a Housing contract. Do I need to send in the required deposit?
If you are accepted as a Guardian Scholar, you do not need to pay the housing deposit. We will send you a packet with a housing agreement that is specially marked to identify you as a Guardian Scholar. Your tuition and housing cost for each semester will be automatically deducted from your financial aid and scholarship funding the week before classes begin. You will receive the balance of your funding which you will need to budget to last you through the semester.
If you would like more information on housing, please contact the Housing Services and Residential Life Office at (714) 278-2168. Housing and Residential Life Web Site
I'm a transfer student. I don’t want to live in the dorms.
The Housing and Residence Life Office also assists sutdents in their search for off-campus housing by providing updated listings of local apartment complexes. Bulletin boards are available for posting crds by students seeking roommates or accommodations. If you would like more information on housing, please contact the Housing Services and Residential Life Office at (714) 278-2168 or visit the Housing Services and Residential Life website.
Who can help me figure out what classes I need to take?
You have two options:
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The Academic Advisement Center
The Academic Advisement Center (AAC) provides guidance in the selection of general education and elective courses. First-time freshmen and new transfer students often begin their academic planning with advisers in the AAC. The AAC is also the administrative "home" for undeclared undergraduate students. The Academic Advisement Center is located in University Hall 179. No appointment is necessary to seek advisement from the AAC staff. -
Seek Advisement from your Major
Advisement to figure out the requirements for your specific major takes place in the major department. Students should seek advisement for the major department. The student's major adviser is the one who makes judgments about course substitutions, applicability of transfer courses to major requirements and exceptions to major requirements.
To be able to register for classes once you are admitted into the university, it is mandatory to attend New Student Orientation. At New Student Orientation advisors will provide the information you will need to know about the classes you should take your first semester at CSU, Fullerton. All incoming freshmen are required to meet with an academic advisor BEFORE they can register for their first-semester classes.
When are the New Student Orientations?
New Student Orientation provides incoming students with an introduction to the opportunities for learning at Cal State Fullerton both in and out of the classroom. A strong emphasis is place on reviewing graduation requirements and registering for classes. The program also provides a place to meet other new students, get an overview of the campus, and discover the traditions of Cal State Fullerton.
Studies show that students who attend New Student Orientation feel more prepared to attend Cal State Fullerton and are more likely to succeed. Make plans to attend one of the many orientations scheduled during the summer months. Guardian Scholars are invited to the first orientation session, normally scheduled for the first week in June.
If you have questions about New Student Orientation call (714) 278-2501.
If you have questions about New Student Programs please visit http://www.fullerton.edu/deanofstudents/nsp/
What is the Fullerton First Year Program?
The Fullerton First Year Program is an exciting yearlong learning community for first time freshmen. In the program you will:
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Participate in a learning community that connects freshmen with dedicated faculty members, student services professionals and peer mentors!
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Participate in a freshman seminar that will link study and computer skills, major and career advice, and co-curricular and community involvement!
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Connect with caring professors and peer mentors who are ready to offer you valuable advice about everything from class material to academic requirements - or just to chat with you!
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Study in small groups and take advantage of one-to-one tutoring when you need it!
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Get involved in activities outside the classroom to make friends, learn leadership skills and gain a sense of belonging at Cal State Fullerton!
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Build lifelong friendships as you enjoy the best of the university’s rich resources inside and outside the classroom!
How do I apply to the Fullerton First Year Program?
You can apply for the Fullerton First Year Program on-line or you can call (714) 278-3709 to request an application be mailed to you.
Once I attend New Student Orientation, how do I register?
Titan registration is a simple online process. Students may also register from off-campus computers via the Internet during their registration appointment times. Here are the simple steps to register online:
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Access the CSU Fullerton home page
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Click on the pull down menu for Quick Links
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Select Titan online
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Enter your ID number (social security number)
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Enter your pin number (provided by the university with admission materials)
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Click on Registration from the menu to the left
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Click on Add/Drop Classes
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If you are a freshman, the computer will prompt you to enroll in either Oral Communications or ENGL 101 as well as the appropriate mathematics course.
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After enrolling in Oral Communications and/or ENGL 101 and the appropriate mathematics course, enroll in remaining courses for the term.
It is recommend that first-time freshmen enroll in 12-15 units the first semester. Bear in mind that in order to accumulate the 120 units required for graduation in four years, a student must complete at least 30 units per year. The freshman that takes 12 units in the fall and 15 units in the spring should plan to take at least summer coursework to keep up the 30-unit per year rate. Students should recognize that the fall term is their "transition to college" period. Some students are fully capable of a 15-unit class load, but others may make the transition more successfully with a 12-unit load the first semester. For purposes of financial aid and insurance programs, 12 units is considered full time.
Required courses for first-time freshmen:
All first-time freshmen must take a mathematics course and either
an Oral Communications course or ENGL 101. The computer will prompt
the student toward the appropriate courses.
Some majors, like Theater or Biology, require that the student begin major classes in the freshman year. Other majors, like Criminal Justice or Sociology, are almost entirely upper division majors so students begin taking courses for their major around the junior year.
Sites of Interest to Freshmen:
CSU Fullerton has many programs and resources for incoming freshman.
Here is a list of websites that can provide information especially
useful for the freshman student:
What is the Destination Success Guide?
Do you have questions about CSU, Fullerton? Click here to check out the latest issue of the Destination Success Guide. Want to find out how to avoid the parking crunch? Need a tutor for a class? Feeling a little stressed and need some hints on how to relax? Looking for a job this summer, or maybe next fall? Check out the Guide for all these answers and more.
What are some of the common mistakes that I can avoid?
The worst mistake is failing to read the information sent to you. Make sure to thoroughly read everything that is sent to you. If you don't understand what you read, call the office that sent out the information or you can call the staff at the Guardian Scholars Office. Failing to respond to request for information can impact the processing of your application for aid and might delay the disbursement of your financial aid funds.
donor FAQs -- Answers
What is the largest challenge for most emancipated youth?
One of the largest challenges for emancipated foster youth is finding housing. A recent study done by the Orangewood Children's Foundation found that fewer than half of all emancipated foster youth had housing upon exiting foster care. Of those who did have a place to live, 20 percent lost that living situation within a year.
Why is the Guardian Scholars referred to as "more than a scholarship?"
The Guardian Scholars creates a "sense of family" by encouraging, supporting, and nurturing scholars. With the use of the on-campus resource center, the staff has designed a meeting place where students study, relax, or come to seek advice. In addition the program provides an array of "safety nets" to direct the scholars past the pitfalls that follow emancipation.
How can my gift make a difference?
All gifts no matter the amount significantly impact the lives of the scholars. On average it costs $10,000 in private funding to provide one year of support for a scholar. Remarkably, we are able to leverage a private sector donation 3 to 1. We accomplish this by maximizing state and federal aid in conjunction with resources offered by Cal State Fullerton. YOUR GIFT MAKES A DIFFERENCE!
How are you able to offer a year of support with only $10,000 in private funding?
The Guardian Scholars Program is a working partnership between the private sector and public agencies, designed to achieve significant synergies which allow us to support our students effectively and cost-efficiently. Cal State Fullerton, private foundations, public agencies and private citizens create a powerful team.
800 State College Blvd. C120 • Fullerton, CA 92834
(714) 278-4900 • guardianscholars @ fullerton.edu
