Marine Corps Launches Special Admissions Program for California State University Campuses

Strategic Insights -

The U.S. Marine Corps has launched a new program aimed at supporting Marines leaving active duty who wish to pursue higher education in California. The Special Admissions Program offers priority admission to selected California State University campuses for Marine Veterans who meet specific requirements. This initiative is designed to provide an opportunity for Marine Veterans to utilize their G.I. Bill benefits and gain a quality college education without competing with the general population.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Special Admissions Program is available to honorably discharged Marine Veterans who meet specific requirements, including being a California resident, having no remaining active duty service obligations, and being a high school graduate.
  • Applicants must also ensure that all necessary documentation is included in the application package, which is screened and endorsed by the commanding general of MCI-West and hand-delivered to the CSU System SAP Administrator.
  • The program was initially launched as a pilot at San Diego State University and was so successful that it was introduced to all 23 CSU campuses.
  • The program is designed to enrich the educational experience for all students and better position Marine Veterans for success in society and the California economy.
  • The program is an extraordinary benefit, especially during tough economic times in California, where state budget constraints have denied thousands of citizens enrollment.
  • Applicants accepted into the program will commence school during the fall semester 2010, with actual reporting dates and freshmen orientation requirements varying by campus.
  • Completed application packages must be received by the business management officer with Marine Corps Installations-West no later than December 10.

Statistics:

  • 23 CSU campuses are participating in the Special Admissions Program.
  • 1,000s of California citizens have been denied enrollment due to state budget constraints.
  • The program is designed to benefit Marine Veterans, as well as those from other military services.
  • 100% of accepted applicants will have the opportunity to utilize their G.I. Bill benefits.

Sources:

  • Case, C. (n.d.). Marine Corps Launches Special Admissions Program for California State University Campuses. U.S. Marine Corps News Release.
  • Roberts, C. (as cited in the original source). Business Management Officer, Marine Corps Installations - West.