How to Apply to the Bilingual Elementary and Middle/High School Credential Programs

Important Dates for Fall 2026

Application Instructions

Step 1: Submit Cal State Apply Application to SDSU

SDSU uses the California State University common admission application through the Cal State Apply website. Begin preparing the Supplemental Program Materials listed below.

Start Early: Prepare Your Supplemental Materials

Before beginning the application, prepare digital copies (PDF format preferred) of the following required documents:

• Certificate of Clearance or Emergency Teaching Permit (e.g., approval email from the CTC or the certificate)
• Prerequisite Courses (e.g., unofficial transcripts with grades posted)
• Early Field Experience (e.g., EFE verification form, pay stubs, or unofficial transcript)
• Subject Matter Competency (e.g., CSET exam scores or approved subject-matter waiver for your credential area)
• Language and Cultural Competency
• Unofficial Transcripts (from all colleges/universities attended)
• Personal Narrative
• Two Letters of Recommendation
• Video
• Credential Application Fee
• Negative TB Test Results (dated within the past 4 years)

Please Note: The following requirements must be completed prior to admission to SDSU’s credential program. While some items—such as prerequisite coursework and degree completion—may be in progress at the time of application, all required exams and the Certificate of Clearance must be fully completed before admission can be granted.

Important Information About Credential Requirements:

• Make sure you meet the basic eligibility requirements regarding your bachelor's degree and GPA.
• Please maintain all your original documents, as you may need to submit these again to districts for student teaching and/or employment.

Exit Requirements: Please be aware that there are additional exit requirements that you must fulfill to earn your credential. These must be completed by the time you finish the credential program.

Step 2: Submit Official Transcripts

After you submit your Cal State Apply application, send Official Transcripts from all postsecondary schools attended to SDSU. Continue to monitor your email account for correspondence from SDSU. 

Step 3: Monitor my.SDSU

Be sure to follow all instructions provided by SDSU, particularly those related to setting up your my.SDSU account. Once your account is active, regularly monitor your my.SDSU Application To-Do List for any items or requests issued by Graduate Admissions. Prompt attention to these items is essential to avoid delays in the processing of your application.

Step 4: Explore Financial Aid Opportunities

Financial Aid & Scholarships has up-to-date information about external scholarships and grants specific to credential students. The College of Education maintains this list in coordination with the SDSU Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships.

Step 5: Interviews

Group admission interviews will be held in March.