NOTE: If you are interested in the Specialization in Student Affairs, please follow the instructions on the MA Student Affairs Admission Procedure page. Otherwise, see instructions below.

Admission to the Graduate Program

Students must complete and submit two applications for graduate admission:

1) Click here to view the Cal State Apply Application

2) Click here to view the College of Education’s online application

All applicants must also take the GRE and submit all required supplemental materials by the dates listed below to be considered for admission. We are not able to consider applicants who do not meet these deadlines.

Step 1: Applying to the University’s Graduate Division for Fall 2018

- Complete the Cal State Apply application by December 15th, 2017

- Submit the required application fee with the Cal State Apply application by December 15th, 2017

- Have the following materials mailed directly to the Graduate Division (address below)

- One official transcripta in a sealed envelope (NOTE: This is a recent update. In the past, two transcripts were required)

- Graduate Record Exam (GRE) general test scores (There is no set G.R.E. score needed to enter the program, however, you must have a G.R.E. score. The GRE school code for our program is 4682). The official transcript and GRE scores must be mailed by January 12, 2018

TOEFL Test Scores (for International Students only)

Graduate Division Address:

Graduate Admissions
San Diego State University
5500 Campanile Drive
San Diego, CA 92182-7416

Click here to view more information on SDSU Graduate Division requirements

Note: Financial aid is available for those interested in the MA program. Instructions on how to apply and other information about financial aid can be found at the SDSU Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships Website.

Step 2: Applying to the ARPE Department for Fall 2015

The following steps must be completed by January 12 , 2018:

- Complete the College of Education’s online application

- Submit two letters of recommendation (required for admission). The process for submitting letters is integrated in the College of Education’s online application.

-Submit unofficial transcripts of all graduate and undergraduate coursework. Transcripts should be uploaded in the "Transcripts" section of the Online Program Application.

NOTE: If you are applying for an assistantship, your Cal State Apply application (step 1) must be completed by December 15th, 2017 and your ARPE department application (step 2) must be completed by January 12th, 2018.  Essentially, you will follow the deadlines that are detailed for the Student Affairs Specialization. The required assistantship materials can be uploaded as supplemental documents in the Educational Leadership section of the College of Education’s online application.

Step 3: Campus Interviews

Applications will be initially reviewed by a committee of faculty in the ARPE department. Following this review, a select group of students will be invited to interview for admission to the program. Interviews will be held in-person or via Skype (at the applicant’s preference). Interview week dates for this application cycle will be February 15th & 16th, 2018.  If you chose to skype, your interview will be on Saturday February 17th. Students will be notified of their admission status (admitted, denied, or waitlisted) shortly following the interview period. Please check this webpage periodically for updates. Click here to view information on discounts for travel and accommodations.