About Early Start

The Early Start program invites incoming first year students to develop readiness for college-level math and/or English courses during the summer before entering the CSU. The goal of Early Start is to better prepare students in math and/or English before their first quarter, thereby improving their chances of earning a college degree.


First Year Students Exempt from Early Start

  • First year students who are not California residents
  • First year students who are international students
  • First year students academically prepared for college-level math and/or English courses based on multiple placement tests
  • First year students participating in Summer Institute

Based on the results of multiple pre-college placement measures, students may be required or recommended to participate in the CSU Early Start Program.