Applying to college can be stressful, especially with all the deadlines and requirements. But there are some schools with rolling admissions in California. These schools review applications as they come in, instead of waiting for a deadline. That means students who missed traditional deadlines or decided to apply later in their senior year might still have a chance. Here’s a look at some of the schools in California that have rolling admissions.
Schools with Rolling Admissions in California
1. The California State University, San Francisco
Being a first-time freshman, you might be curious about the application process and requirements of the California State University. Well, aside from admissions, test scores are also used for counseling and placement. If you’re taking the SAT or ACT, make sure to send in your scores by January 22. The average GPA of students here is 3.23, and most of them have submitted their GPAs (99% to be exact).
The average SAT scores are 487 verbal, 491 math, and 977 combined. As for the ACT, the average scores are 20 in English, 21 in math, and 21 in composite. Admission notifications are on a rolling basis, which explains why California State University is one of the best schools with rolling admissions in California. However, once you’re accepted, you’ll need to confirm your admission by May 1 or within 2 weeks if notified after that date.
Out of 35,122 applications, 23,841 were offered admission and 4,276 of those enrolled. If you’re planning to stay on campus, there’s a room deposit of $200, but it’s refundable until July 18.
The California State University
2. California College of Art
Is your interest in art and design? This might be the place for you. The California College of Art practices rolling admissions, which means you can submit your application even after the priority deadlines.
However, if you’re eyeing merit and the Visionary Practice scholarships, make sure to apply by the priority deadline. For undergraduate admissions, the application for Spring 2025 enrollment becomes available on August 1, 2024, with a priority deadline of October 1, 2024.
For Fall 2025, the application opens on August 1, 2024, with an early action deadline of November 15, 2024, and priority deadlines of February 1, 2025, for first-year applications and March 1, 2025, for transfer applications. If you’re considering a graduate program, the application for 2025 becomes available on September 1, with a priority deadline of January 15.
The California College of Art offers a variety of programs, from MFA in Comics to MBA in Design Strategy. There’s no separate scholarship application, and GRE scores aren’t required.
3. California College of Art
Located in the heart of California with campuses in Sacramento, Modesto, and Stockton, this is one of the top schools with rolling admissions in California. They provide a world-class education, whether you’re attending courses online or in person. If you’re a high school graduate looking to transition into a professional career, the undergraduate options here are tailored just for you.
For those who need flexibility due to a hectic schedule, CAC Online offers a customizable learning experience with full guidance and support.
Adult learners can benefit from the rolling admissions process, with six start dates each year and the choice of online or on-campus classes. This is especially beneficial for those aiming to complete their education on a swift timeline.
International students are welcomed into a supportive environment that ensures both personal and academic success, with assistance provided right from the application process. The graduate programs at California College offer the credentials needed to excel in your chosen field or even switch professions.
4. ArtCenter College of Design
The ArtCenter College operates on a rolling admission deadline policy, meaning prospective students can apply at any time. So, here is your next school with rolling admissions in California.
However, there are specific dates to keep in mind. For the Fall term, applications open on August 1 of the previous year, and for the Spring term, they open on April 1 of the previous year.
The early action deadline for the Fall term is November 15, ideal for students who are well-prepared to submit all required materials.
If your interest is the Entertainment Design program, note the priority deadlines: February 1 for the Fall term and October 1 for the Spring term.
This program has specific tracks like Concept and Animation that admit students in both Fall and Spring, while the Game Design track only admits students in the Fall.
While there are no formal deadlines for most undergraduate programs, make sure to submit your application by the priority dates. If you’re not ready by then, then the rolling admissions policy helps you to apply later.
5. Cal Poly
All applications and fees (or pre-approved fee waivers) must be submitted through Cal State Apply by 11:59 p.m. PT. Unfortunately, late applications won’t be entertained. If you need to make any changes to your application, the last day to do so is January 15.
However, for those applying to Music or Art and Design, changes must be made by January 1. The university only accepts changes related to biographical information, primary or alternate majors, and new test scores. For international students, all application support documentation should be completed by March 1, but it’s recommended to submit earlier to ensure timely review.
All applicants will be informed about their admission status by April 1. If you’re an international student looking to apply for graduate programs, you can apply for fall, winter, or spring quarter admission. The respective deadlines for these quarters are April 1, December 1, and September 1.
6. California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB)
When applying to CSUMB, start your application at Cal State Apply. The application process varies depending on the program you’re interested in. For the MA + Elementary Education / MA + Secondary Education programs, applications for Summer 2025 open on October 1, 2024, with a priority deadline of February 1, 2025. Rolling admissions will continue on a space-available basis after this date.
The program application can close anytime after February 1, 2025, once all spots are filled. For the Special Education/Curriculum & Instruction program, applications for Fall 2025 open on October 1, 2024.
The priority deadline is set for May 1, 2024, with rolling admissions continuing through June 15, 2025. For the Master of Arts in Education with an Educational Leadership emphasis, applications for Fall 2024 also open on October 1, 2024. The priority deadline is May 1, 2025, and the application closes on June 15, 2025.
After submitting your CSU application, you’ll receive an email from CSUMB with details on how to access your CSUMB dashboard and program application. Post-application submission, the university will contact you to schedule an interview. If you face any issues with the Cal State Apply process, you can reach out to Shawna Gannon, the Recruitment and Admissions Counselor, at sgannon@csumb.edu.
7. Touro University California
Do you consider a career at the intersection of health care and public health? Touro University California offers a unique joint MSPAS/MPH program. In just 33 months, you can earn two degrees that emphasize social justice, diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in health care. To apply, you’ll need to go through the Central Application Service for Physician Assistant Programs (CASPA).
The program begins every fall, with applications due by November 1. There are specific academic and course requirements, including a minimum GPA of 3.0. The program values patient care experience, with a minimum of 1,000 hours required. While PA shadowing and community service are not mandatory, they are highly recommended and can enhance your application. The admissions process is conducted in two phases, with interviews as part of the selection.
8. California State University Long Beach
Applications to California State University Long Beach are reviewed for its COB Graduate Programs on a rolling basis. For the Spring 2024 semester, they are accepting applications for the Evening MBA, Online MBA, and MS Accountancy programs.
For Fall 2024, all their programs are open for applications. If you have any questions or need further information, you can reach out to their office via email at cob-gradprograms@csulb.edu or by phone at 562-985-5565.
9. SCI-Arc
Any student who hasn’t graduated from high school at the time of application can apply for the fall term at SCI-Arc. Thanks to this school being one of the schools with rolling admissions in California. They offer two bachelor’s degree programs: a five-year professional Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) degree and a four-year Bachelor of Science in Design. To apply, you’ll need to submit the Common Application, a personal statement, an SCI-Arc Supplement Question, letters of recommendation, and your official high school transcripts. If you have them, you can also submit a portfolio and SAT I or ACT scores.
The priority deadline for Fall 2024 is January 15, 2024. Applications received after this date will still be considered, but it’s best to get them in by the priority deadline for both admission and scholarship consideration. If you’re an international student, you might need to submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores. Once you’ve applied, you can check the status of your application on their website. If you have any questions during the application process, you can reach out to the Office of Admissions.
10. California Western School of Law (San Diego)
Ready to start your law school application? California Western School of Law in San Diego offers rolling admissions, but there are some key dates to keep in mind. For Spring 2025, the priority deadline for regular JD applicants is November 1, 2024, with a final deadline of December 1, 2024. If you’re a transfer or visiting applicant, you should aim for November 15, 2024.
For Summer 2025, transfer and visiting applicants should note March 15, 2024. For Fall 2025, regular JD applicants have a priority deadline of April 1, 2025, and a final deadline of July 31, 2025. Transfer and visiting applicants should aim for July 15, 2025. It’s worth noting that acceptance might be more competitive for those who apply closer to the deadline.
California Western School of Law
Conclusion
Schools with rolling admissions in California are your alternative option if you miss traditional deadlines or decide to apply to college later in the year. California is home to top-quality schools, from universities and art schools to law schools.
Each school has its own application requirements, but all are committed to providing quality education and helping students succeed. So, when looking for schools with rolling admissions in California, you have your options laid out in this post.
Read also: Free Laptops for Students in California
