SFSU will accept undergraduate applications for spring 2005 admission between Aug. 1 and Sept. 15.

First-time freshmen and transfer students with at least 56 transferable units are eligible for admission. SFSU will not accept applications from students seeking a second bachelor's degree, except in science, technology, engineering, mathematics or nursing -- fields deemed by California State University as in "critical need" in California.

Jo Volkert, associate vice president for enrollment planning and management, encourages prospective students who are unable to apply for spring 2005 to complete all required lower division courses at community colleges and apply to SFSU for fall 2005. SFSU will accept fall 2005 applications beginning Oct. 1.

The Sept. 15 deadline, established due to a growing interest in SFSU and the uncertainty of the University's budget relating to California's fiscal crisis, ensures that SFSU does not admit more students than it can adequately serve, Volkert said.

The University's enrollment has steadily increased in recent years, as the population of students graduating from high schools in California is on the rise and will continue to grow through at least 2008. SFSU's enrollment was 28,198 this spring, a slight increase over spring 2003. Last fall, enrollment reached an all-time high of 29,686.

Prospective students should apply online, at CSUMentor, to receive an admissions decision more quickly.

Spring 2005 graduate applications are due by Nov. 1. However, certain graduate programs have earlier deadlines and require an additional application. For details, visit the Division of Graduate Studies Web site or call at (415) 338-2234.

For more details on SFSU admissions, majors and degree programs, costs, financial aid, on-campus housing and student life, visit the prospective students Web site, call (415) 338-2355 or e-mail outreach@sfsu.edu.

Prospective students interested in on-campus housing are encouraged to submit a housing application before being admitted to SFSU, as space is limited and applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. For details, call (415) 338-1067 or visit the Housing and Residential Services Web site.

-- Matt Itelson