How to Apply

Application Requirements

Online Admissions Application: Begin the application process by submitting an online application and paying the non-refundable $65 application fee.

Minimum GPA: A GPA of 2.0 or higher in previous coursework is required. 

Transfer Credit Requirements: To be eligible for admissions, applicants must have completed a minimum of 54 transferable semester units. General education requirements are designed to give you a broad background in various disciplines. Learn more about what constitutes transferable units.

Transcripts: Applicants must submit official transcripts from all accredited academic institutions attended. If not sent electronically, transcripts must arrive in their official, sealed envelopes. Transcripts can be mailed to 1453 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA 94103. If you have earned more than 54 units, but less than 60 units, we will also require a copy of your high school diploma, transcript, or GED certificate.

General Education Requirements: The completion of the following fields is not a prerequisite to enter the program, but rather an assessment of general education requirements necessary for graduation. We encourage you to meet as many of these requirements before entering the program, however, if you are lacking units, often you'll be able to take them as elective courses while enrolled in the program at CIIS.

• 3 units of college level math
• 9 units of humanities and art
• 6 units of natural sciences
• 6 units of expository writing
• 9 units of social sciences
• 3 units of oral communications

If you are uncertain about your eligibility, you can email your unofficial transcripts to the School of Undergraduate Studies for an unofficial transcript evaluation at dmurillo@ciis.edu.

Letter of Recommendation: One letter of recommendation from someone who can speak to your academic abilities or preparedness (preferred), or your work/professional experience. The letter should not be from a close friend, family member, or therapist.

Admissions Essay: One essay is required per application. Submit an essay (five-to-seven pages typed, double-spaced) that incorporates discussion of the following:

• How this program is a good fit for you
• Experiences that shaped your desire to return to college now
• Your interest in majoring in interdisciplinary studies
• Experiences that have prepared you to work in a collaborative learning community.
• Your goals and expectations for yourself in the program

Interview: Once the office of admissions receives a complete application, successful candidates will go onto faculty review (you will receive an email when this happens). At that point, the department will contact you for an interview if they find you a viable candidate. Please allow two-to-three weeks time for faculty to contact you to schedule an interview.