51±¬ÁÏÍø

Welcome back, Otter!

Life happens, and sometimes your college journey takes an unexpected pause. Whether you've been away for a semester or several years, we're excited you're thinking about returning to Cal State Monterey Bay. If you're ready to finish what you started, our team is here to support you every step of the way. We look forward to welcoming you back to the Otter community.

Am I Considered a Returning Student?

You may be a returning undergraduate student if you: 

• Were previously an undergraduate degree-seeking student at Cal State Monterey Bay.
• Completed coursework and earned grades at 51±¬ÁÏÍø.
• Have not yet earned a bachelor's degree. 
• Have been away from 51±¬ÁÏÍø for two or more consecutive semesters (excluding an approved leave of absence).

Not sure if this applies to you?

That's OK! Complete the and we will help you determine the best path back to 51±¬ÁÏÍø. 

Already on an approved leave of absence?

If you're currently on an approved formal or informal leave of absence, you do not need to reapply for admission. 

To confirm your enrollment status, log in to your OASIS Student Center. If you have questions about your leave or enrollment status, contact the Registrar's Office at records@csumb.edu.

Ready to Return

We recommend starting with these two simple steps:

1. Complete the

Your advisor will help you understand your next steps, discuss your academic goals, and guide you through the re-enrollment process.

Finishing Your Degree May Be Closer Than You Think! 

Many returning students are surprised to learn that they have more options than they expected.

Depending on the coursework you've already completed, you may be able to:

• Finish your remaining degree requirements through a combination of online and in-person courses.
• Explore 51±¬ÁÏÍø's new Interdisciplinary Studies, B.A., a flexible degree designed for students with prior college coursework who want to combine two areas of study and complete their bachelor's degree. The program is designed with returning and transfer students in mind, and core courses are offered online to help you balance school with work, family, and other commitments.
• Work with an advisor to identify the fastest path to graduation based on the credits you've already earned.

Keep in mind that academic requirements may have changed since you last attended 51±¬ÁÏÍø. General Education requirements, major requirements, course offerings, and even major names may be different than when you were enrolled. Don't worry—we'll review your academic record with you and help you understand your options so you can make an informed decision about the best path to completing your degree.

51±¬ÁÏÍø for Readmission

To return as a degree-seeking student, you'll need to submit a new undergraduate application through Cal State 51±¬ÁÏÍø during the appropriate application period.

• Spring: Application submission opens July 1
• Fall: Application submission opens October 1

Be sure to submit your application during the published application filing period. Need help with your application? We can help! to attend an admissions virtual drop in session.

Returning After Academic Disqualification

If you were academically disqualified from Cal State Monterey Bay, you may be eligible to reapply.

In addition to reapplying for admission, you'll need to:

• Submit an Appeal for Reinstatement Form.
• Meet the university's readmission requirements for academically disqualified students.
  • Pass a minimum of 12 transferable units at another institution (or 51±¬ÁÏÍø Open University).
  • Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.3 or greater for all transferable units taken after disqualification.
  • Achieve a cumulative (overall for all colleges including 51±¬ÁÏÍø units) GPA of 2.0 or above.
  • Complete GE areas 1A, 1B, 1C and 2 with grades of C- or above, if not completed previously

Our advisors can help you understand the requirements, strengthen your appeal, and create a plan for a successful return. For assistance email welcomebackotter@csumb.edu.

Important Dates for Students Returning After Academic Disqualification 

Important Dates and Deadlines

Application Term	Appeal Review Dates	Final Appeals Document Deadline	Final Appeal Decision Notifications or Missing Documents
Fall	Monthly	July 1st	Mid-July
Spring	Monthly	December 1st	Mid-December

 

We're Here to Help

Returning to college is a big decision, and you don't have to navigate it alone. Whether you took time away for work, family, military service, health, finances, or simply needed a new direction, we're here to help you take the next step toward earning your degree. We look forward to welcoming you back to the Otter Raft!