Return to San Jose State University

Welcome back, Spartan!

Once you’ve been a part of ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø, you’re always part of our community. Whether you’ve been away for a few semesters or a few years, we’re here to help you return and complete your academic journey.

Who is a Returning Student?

You are considered a returning student if all of the following apply:

  • You were previously enrolled in a degree-seeking program at ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø.
  • You have been away from ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø for two or more semesters.
  • You are not currently on a Leave of Absence or Educational Leave.

Note: Students who only enrolled through Open University are not considered returning students for admission purposes and must apply through Cal State Apply.

How to Return to ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø

Your return process depends on how long you've been away and your academic status. Review the criteria below to determine your next steps.

Eligibility Criteria

You are eligible to complete the if all the following apply:

  • You are returning to complete your bachelor’s degree at ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø.
  • You left ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø in good standing or on academic notice.
  • You have not attended another college or university since leaving ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø.
  • You did not only take Open University courses during your previous time at ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø. 

You can also utilize the ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø Returning Student Form if you are a Second Start student.

Deadline to complete the ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø Returning Student Form:

Spring semester return

  • December 1

Fall semester return

  • December 1 for students that attended another institution after ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø
  • June 1 for students that did not attend another institution after ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø

Who Should Reapply Through Cal State Apply?

You must reapply via if you are returning to complete a bachelor’s degree and any of the following apply:

  • You have attended another college or university since leaving ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø.
  • You only enrolled in Open University courses when you previously attended ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø.
  • You are in good standing at all institutions attended since leaving ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø.

For students who have attended another institution after ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø, please apply for the next available term by the deadline for returning students.

If You Were Academically Disqualified from ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø

If you were academically disqualified from ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø, you must:

1) Complete the reinstatement process as outlined by the Office of Undergraduate Education.

2) Reapply to ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø via .

Note: If you left in good standing and simply "stopped out" (i.e., did not enroll for two or more consecutive semesters), you do not need to submit a Reinstatement Petition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I attempted coursework after attending ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø, but never completed it?If you received a letter grade from that institution, you will need to include that coursework. Additionally, you will need to reapply via Cal State Apply by the deadline.
What happens after I officially apply for readmission?You will receive information about accessing MyºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø where you will find any requests for additional information/documents in order to render an admission decision.
Can I appeal an admission decision?Yes. Students may submit an Admissions Appeal for reconsideration.
What if it has been a few years since I last attended ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø?We’ve got you covered! We will help support you every step of the way on your path to readmission to ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø. You can complete our to determine your next steps.
Where can I go for more support with the readmission process?Please contact Student Outreach and Recruitment to help support you through this process.