Center for Advising and Student Success
The Otter community is committed to your success. Our advisors are here to support you in planning your academic path and reaching your graduation goals.
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Summer & Fall '26 Registration Week: March 16–20
If you experience issues while registering, such as full classes, prerequisite errors, or permission number questions, advisors are available during Drop-In Advising to help.
Popular Resources
Looking for something specific?
These commonly used pages can help you take your next step.
Your Advising Options
Academic Advising
Academic Advisors help you understand degree requirements, choose courses, and stay on track for graduation by reviewing your Academic Requirements Report and learning plan. Advisors are available by email, Otter Navigate, appointments, and drop-ins.
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Success Advising
Success Advisors help you build the habits and strategies needed to succeed in college, including time management, goal setting, and connecting to campus resources. Advisors are available by email, Otter Navigate, and scheduled appointments.
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How We Support Your Success
The Center for Advising and Student Success at Cal State Monterey Bay is a powerhouse of resources and support. Under our umbrella of services, you’ll find academic advising, career coaching and everything in between.
Student Success ServicesCareer Exploration and Professional Development
Planning for life after college starts now. Explore majors, discover career paths, prepare for graduate school, and start building experience that supports your future goals.
Exploring Majors and Careers
Choosing a major is easier when you understand the careers connected to it. Explore different fields, identify your interests, and learn how majors connect to career pathways.
- Connect majors with career paths
- Explore interests and strengths
- Discover career possibilities
Starting the Job Search
Graduate School Resources
Considering graduate or professional school? Explore resources that help you research programs and prepare for the application process.
- Research graduate programs
- Plan application timelines
- Prepare for advanced study
Student Support Services
College can be challenging, but you do not have to navigate it alone. These campus services provide academic support, accessibility resources and confidential counseling.
Cooperative Learning Center (CLC)
Free tutoring and collaborative learning support are available for many courses to help you better understand course material and prepare for exams.
- Free tutoring
- Study groups
- Academic skills support
Student Disability and Accessibility Center (SDAC)
Students with documented disabilities can receive accommodations and accessibility support to ensure equitable access to learning.
- Academic accommodations
- Accessibility support
- Documentation guidance
Personal Growth and Counseling Center (PGCC)
Confidential counseling and wellness services help students manage stress, mental health challenges, and personal concerns.
- Individual counseling
- Mental health resources
- Wellness workshops
Academic Tools and Guides
University processes can feel confusing at first. These guides help you understand common advising topics and navigate registration and degree planning.
Permission Numbers
Some courses require a permission number before you can enroll. Learn when they are used and how to request one properly.
- When permission numbers are required
- How to request one
- What information to include
Academic Advising Glossary
University terminology can be confusing. This glossary explains common terms used in advising, registration, and degree planning.
- Registration terminology
- Degree planning language
- Academic policies
Advising FAQs
Find answers to frequently asked questions about advising, registration, academic policies, and navigating campus resources.
- Registration questions
- Degree planning basics
- Advising topics
About the Center for Advising and Student Success
The Center for Advising and Student Success is here to help you navigate your academic journey at Cal State Monterey Bay. Whether you have questions about degree requirements, planning your next semester, or connecting with campus resources, our advisors are ready to support you.
Meet the Advising Team Mission and Vision
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Need Guidance? Start Here.
Whether you’re building your academic plan, facing a challenge, or just need clarity on next steps, we’re here to help.
Center for Academic and Student Success
Our Academic and Success advising team helps students create clear plans and stay on track toward graduation.
Front Desk
Start with our front desk staff for quick questions, referrals, or help scheduling an appointment with an advisor.