Multiple Measures

There are many ways to determine which first-year GE English and math/qualitative reasoning (QR) courses are right for each student. Factors known as “multiple measures” are used to evaluate each student’s academic preparation in these subjects.

Multiple Measures for Placement Include:

• Standardized Tests (The CSU no longer uses ACT or SAT scores in determining admission eligibility for all CSU campuses; however, if admitted to a CSU campus, standardized test scores can be used as one of the measures to determine placement
• High School GPA
• High School Math GPA
• High School and College Coursework

First-Year Placement

Once accepted to a CSU, first-time freshmen will enroll in GE English and math courses that align with their skills and career goals.

Estimate Your Placement

The GE Placement Estimator uses multiple measures to estimate your placement in general education math and/or English courses in your first year of college. Although academic readiness evaluation is not a condition for admission to California State University, it is an important process for determining the best course placement for first-year students.

Using the CSU General Education Placement Estimators will help you determine your placement in English and math courses.

Supportive Pathways

As part of the CSU’s commitment to academic preparation and student success, the Supportive Pathways for First-Year Students Program (formerly the Early Start Program) offers pathways and academic and social support that align with each incoming student’s needs. The program’s goal is to ensure that first-time students successfully complete the General Education (GE) written communication (A2) and math/quantitative reasoning (B4) requirements within their first year.

Meeting Students Where They Are

How Does the Supportive Pathways for First-Year Students Program Help Students?

• Students have the opportunity to earn college credit toward graduation, in some cases the summer before the fall semester.
• The program curriculum is designed to meet students’ needs by preparing them for their GE and major coursework requirements.
• The program fosters a sense of community and belonging through services that include support in and out of the classroom experience.
• Students will be able to establish connections with their peers, faculty, and staff in their first days as a CSU student.

Programs Fees for Summer Supportive Pathways Program Only

The cost for summer programs is $191 per unit plus a mandatory fee of $1 for Health Facilities and $1 for the Student Union. Eligible financial aid applicants with an Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) of $6,000 or less may be eligible for a fee waiver of the per unit fee. There are no additional fees for programs offered during the fall and spring terms.