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Spring Timeline

Whether you're a first-year, transfer, or international student, this timeline is designed to help you navigate each important step of the Spring 2026 admissions process with ease and confidence. From submitting your application to moving into your new home on campus, we’ve highlighted the key dates and deadlines to keep you on track every step of the way.

To ensure a smooth start to your semester, be sure to explore the Stay On Track Guide—your go-to resource for completing all the necessary steps smoothly before classes begin. Discover what’s ahead, stay organized, and feel prepared as you take your next step toward joining the Seawolf community.

*Dates are subject to change.

First-Year and Transfer Applicants

Spring 2026 

August 1, 2025

Spring 2026 Application Opens

Apply to SSU online through Cal State Apply.

August 1, 2025 - January 2026

Apply for Financial Aid

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the CA Dream Act Application (CADAA) for students eligible for AB 540. Don’t forget to add the Sonoma State code (001156) to your application.

September 30, 2025

Spring 2026 Priority Application Closes

Apply to SSU online through Cal State Apply.  If you miss the priority deadline, you can still apply through a late application request.

Prior to Enrollment

Submit Immunization Records

Submit all required immunization documents. Please review your immunization requirements and submit the proper documentation as prompted on the Health Center Immunizations website.

August - October 2025

Admission decisions are sent to students on a rolling basis. Please be sure to check your email on a frequent basis.

November 1, 2025 (Intent to Enroll Deadline)

Your First Step to Becoming a Seawolf

Submit your Enrollment Reservation Deposit (ERD) and accept your offer of admission by logging into your MySSU Login and selecting "Stay on Track".

November 2025

November 1, 2025 - Housing Application Opens

You must accept your admissions offer before applying for on-campus housing. You may also explore off-campus housing options.

November 21, 2025 - In-Person Orientation

Orientation will take place, which includes academic advising and registration. Please contact us at [email protected] with any questions.

January 2026

Scholarship Application Deadline

Deadline to submit materials for general scholarships for the 2026–2027 academic year. Learn more about Sonoma State Scholarships.

January 10, 2026 - Submit Final Transcripts

Submit final official college transcripts to the Office of Admissions, including final grades for Spring 2026. Admission offers are conditional based on meeting all requirements in your admission letter. Learn more on submit transcripts website. 

Schedule Changes & Late Registration

Need to change your classes? Late registration and add/drop information will be posted on the Academic Calendar.

January 14, 2026 - Final Document Deadline

Submit final official transcripts to the Office of Admissions if you took Fall 2025 courses.

January 14, 2026 - Registration and Tuition Fee Payment Deadline

Submit payment for your Spring registration. Learn how to pay your SSU tuition and fees.

You can still register during the Academic Calendar drop/add periodBe sure to pay any associated student charges/fees.

January 16, 2026 - Move-In Day

Move-in for students living on campus. Visit the Housing website for move-in details and tips.

January 26, 2026

First day of classes for the spring semester.

*Dates are subject to change.

International Student Applicants 

Spring 2026

August 2025

August 1, 2025 - Spring 2026 Application Opens

Apply to SSU online through Cal State Apply.

September 2025

September 30, 2025 - Spring 2026 Application Closes

Apply to SSU online through Cal State Apply. If you miss the priority deadline, you can still apply through a late application request.

August - October 2025

Admission decisions are sent to students on a rolling basis. Please be sure to check your email on a frequent basis.

October 18, 2025

Join us for Sonoma State's Preview Day—our signature campus open house event (if you are already in the U.S.)!

November 1, 2025 (Intent to Enroll Deadline)

Your First Step to Becoming a Seawolf

Deadline to submit your Enrollment Reservation Deposit (ERD) and accept your offer of admission by logging into your MySSU and selecting "Stay on Track". 

Prior to Enrollment

Submit Immunization Records
Submit all required immunization documents 

Please review your immunization requirements and submit the proper documentation as prompted on the Health Center Immunizations website.

November 2025
As Soon As You Have Your Visa Document (I-20)

For International Students: Apply for a VISA

It is very important that you begin the VISA application process as soon as you receive your I-20 (F-1 visa document). Delays can impact your ability to travel and enroll on time.

November 1, 2025 - Spring Housing Application Opens

You must accept your admissions offer before applying for on-campus housing. You may also explore off-campus housing options. 

December 2025

Complete the Mandatory Online International Student Pre-arrival Course

You will be required to attend an online International Student Pre-Arrival Orientation Course.

Submit the International Transfer Form

Students requesting a SEVIS transfer from another school in the U.S. must fill out and submit the Transfer In Form for F-1 Students.

Purchase Health Insurance

Health Insurance must be purchased before you arrive in the U.S.

Make Travel Arrangements 

We recommend arriving at SSU several days (but no more than 30 days) before the mandatory on-campus international orientation. Visit our Getting to SSU webpage for more information.

December 2025

Review Stay on Track Guide to not miss an important date!

Attend Noma Nation Orientation

All new undergraduates are required to attend Noma Nation Orientation and register for classes. Learn about campus life, academic advising, and get set for fall! More information on specific dates will be announced in the future!

January 2026

January 3, 2026 - Submit Final Transcripts

Make sure we receive your final transcripts. Admission offers are conditional based on meeting all requirements in your admission letter. Learn more about submit transcripts

Schedule Changes & Late Registration

Need to change your classes? Late registration and add/drop info will be posted on the Academic Calendar.

January 10, 2026- Final Documents Deadline

Submit final official transcripts to the Office of Admissions. Learn more on submit transcripts website. 

January 14, 2026 - Registration and Tuition Fee Payment Deadline

 Submit payment for your Spring registration. Learn how to pay your SSU tuition and fees.

You can still register during the Academic Calendar drop/add period. Be sure to pay any associated student charges/fees.

Attend Mandatory On-Campus International Student Orientation

On-Campus International Student Orientation generally takes place right before school starts.

Move-In Day

Move-in for students living on campus. Visit the Housing website for move-in details and tips.

January 26, 2026

First Day of Classes; Spring semester begins