FAQs

• Can I change my placement level after receiving my CAASPP results?

  • Yes. Students can show that they are academically prepared to take general education math and written communication courses without support during their first year of college by:

    1. earning a high grade point average in high school;
    2. taking qualifying English and math classes in twelfth grade;
    3. receiving an appropriate score on the SAT/ACT; or
    4. meeting other thresholds noted in the Early Assessment Program (EAP) multiple measures criteria.
• Does the Early Assessment Program or the CAASPP impact admission decisions?

  • No, neither the CAASPP exam nor the Early Assessment Program is considered during the admissions process. Applicants are admitted on the basis of the CSU eligibility index instead.

    The Early Assessment Program and the CAASPP exam are used simply to place students in appropriate writing and math courses during their first year of college after they are already admitted.

• Do I really have to take a fourth year of math?

  • The UC and CSU both recommend four years of math. In addition, students who earned a 3 on the CAASPP exam can meet the CSU academic preparation mathematics standard by completing an approved senior year math class (beyond Algebra II or Integrated Math III) with "C-" or better in both semesters. If you are already working above grade level, you can complete a college general education requirement by choosing to take IB or AP courses and classes at your local community college.

• What is Early Start? How does it work?

  • Early Start is a summer program held at all CSU campuses that allows students to get a head start on completing their general education math and written communication requirements. Students assigned to enrollment category IV are required to complete Early Start, while category III students have the option to attend.

    Benefits of Early Start include the opportunity to: meet new friends, learn how the university works, and complete one or two classes before your first year of college begins.

    Students may satisfy the Early Start requirement at any CSU campus, even if it's not the one they will be attending. Students with estimated family contributions of $5,000 or less may participate in the Early Start Program free of tuition.