FTF OLSA Live on Requirement

First Time Freshman Out of Local Admissions Area - Live-on Housing Requirement

Información en Español

Beginning with the Fall 2012 semester, California State University San Marcos joined a number of other CSU campuses in requiring first-time freshman from outside of the local area to live in University or University-Affiliated Housing during their first year (on a space available basis). 

List of local admissions area school districts

Living in student housing promotes greater community, creating a student sense of citizenship, and facilitates a positive first year experience.  The living experience provides greater support in transition to university life, including participation in learning communities, involvement in student life and recreation, more access to academic resources and opportunities to build life-long friendships.  Research consistently shows that students who live in student housing have better grades, are more involved in campus activities, are retained in higher numbers and graduate sooner than students who do not.

When determining financial aid eligibility for students living on-campus, the Cost of Attendance will reflect on- campus housing rates.

Exemptions from the live on requirement will be considered for students over 21 years of age; military or veteran status; married, domestically partnered, and/or with legally dependent children; independent student status; medical and disability circumstances, or other special circumstances which create substantial personal hardship.

Please note: First Time Freshman Out of Local Admissions Area students must complete the housing application process OR be approved for an exemption from the live-on requirement in order to register for orientation. 

Freshman Live-On Requirement: Process and Exemption Form.