Registration Processes and Policies

Stay Informed and On Track

Registration policies guide students through adding, dropping, and withdrawing from classes. Special approvals may be needed after deadlines. Options are available for returning students and for summer or winter terms. Planning ahead is key.

Students may add or drop classes using OASIS during the designated registration period. If a class is open and enrollment requirements are met, it can be added online through the Student Center. Those registering for the first time on or after the first day of the semester may be subject to a late registration fee.

If a class is full or requires instructor or department consent, the instructor should be contacted via the campus directory or department contact list. Upon approval, a permission number (add code) will be provided for enrollment through OASIS.

Classes may be dropped online through the end of the add/drop period. To receive a full refund of mandatory fees, all courses must be dropped before the term begins. After the start of the term, tuition and fees are prorated based on the drop date. New students who drop all classes before the add/drop deadline must reapply for admission before enrolling in a future term. Some students may also require approval before dropping below a minimum unit threshold.

Once the add/drop deadline passes, changes to your schedule require special approval. To add or swap a course, you must submit a Late Add Petition through OASIS. Approval is not guaranteed. Petitions require an explanation of the extenuating circumstances and approval from the instructor and department chair. After the census date, college dean approval is also required and requests are rarely approved.

Late-add petitions must be submitted no later than the last day of classes for the term. All requests are routed electronically through OASIS; paper forms are not accepted. You will be notified of the outcome by email, and you can track the petition status in your Student Center.

Before submitting, contact the instructor, confirm your class schedule to avoid overlaps and resolve any registration holds. Petitions may be denied if you have outstanding balances, and financial aid will not be adjusted for courses added after the deadline.

To withdraw from a class after the add/drop period, a Withdrawal Request form must be completed and submitted with documentation of serious and compelling reasons.

Approved withdrawals result in a grade of "W" on your transcript. Undergraduate students may withdraw from up to 18 units during their time at CSUMB, not including withdrawals for medical or military reasons. Full details are available on the Withdrawal Procedures page.

Students who previously left CSUMB without graduating may still be closer than they think to completing their degree. The university provides support to help returning students explore their options and identify the best path to graduation.

Degree Requirements and Catalog Rights

If you have not maintained continuous enrollment, your degree requirements may have changed. In accordance with Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations, returning students must follow the current catalog for major, minor, and general education requirements.

Two Ways to Move Forward

Reapply to CSUMB

If you're ready to return and complete your degree, follow the steps for returning students. This includes submitting a new application and meeting current admission criteria.

Request a Record Review

If you were close to graduating and want to know where you stand, submit the Returning Student Interest Form. Our team will evaluate your academic record and determine the best next steps.

Please allow 6-8 weeks for processing. During this time, staff may contact academic departments and request additional information.

For questions, contact the Office of the Registrar.

For accelerated or short-term sessions, deadlines to add or drop vary. Please confirm specific dates for the term you are wishing to make changes to.

Continuing Cal State Monterey Bay students may enroll online through OASIS if space is available and requirements are met. Some courses — particularly those in winter — are offered through the College of Extended Education & International Programs (EEIP). Visit the EEIP website for specific rules, deadlines and fees.