The CSU must assess the academic preparation of all foreign students applying for admission to the CSU. For this purpose, “foreign students” include those who hold U.S. visas as students, exchange visitors, or in other nonimmigrant classifications.

The CSU uses separate requirements and application filing dates in the admission of foreign students. Verification of English proficiency (see the section on TOEFL Requirement for undergraduate applicants), financial resources, and academic performance are all important considerations for admission. Academic records from foreign institutions must be on file at least three months prior to the first term of attendance and, if not in English, must be accompanied by certified English translations.

Priority in admission is given to residents of California. As a result, there is little likelihood of nonresident applicants, including international students, being admitted either to impacted majors or to those majors or programs with limited openings.

The International Students and Programs Office (MB2 211, 654-2014) provides a host of services for international students enrolled in classes at CSUB, including:

a.   Responding to inquiries from all prospective international students.

b.   Maintaining close contact and follow-up with international student applications.

c.   Providing academic and social-cultural orientation for new international students, including meetings with the Friendship Partners, a community group interested in assisting international students.

d.   Providing pre-departure orientation for students returning home at the end of their studies.

e.   Scheduling workshops to provide updated information on immigration issues, academic policies and procedures, cultural and social adjustment to life in the US, resume and job interview preparation, etc.

f.    Providing general assistance to international students with academic, immigration, and personal issues.

g.   Providing initial academic advising for lower-division international students.

h.   Advising/assisting the International Student Club to plan campus events and social activities.

All international students should contact the office for International Students and Programs upon their arrival at CSUB.