How to Apply

For International Students

En español

1. Create Your Account

   Begin by creating an account on The Common Application website if you haven't already done so. After registering you will need to add California Lutheran University to your list of colleges from within the College Search tab.
   
   START YOUR APPLICATION

2. Complete Your Application & Essay

   Complete The Common Application and personal essay by the appropriate deadline. Please keep in mind all application documents must be submitted by the application deadline (including Official Test Scores, Official Transcripts, Letter of Recommendation and Personal Statement).

3. Request Recommendation

   Request a letter of recommendation from one your teachers through the Recommender Section of the Common Application. You will need your recommender's email address for this section. We suggest that you begin the process early to give them plenty of time to respond before the deadline.

4. Submit Application Fee

   All applicants must submit a non-refundable $25 application fee or submit a fee waiver. If the fee will present a financial hardship for you and your family, you may be eligible for a waiver of the application fee. Ask your guidance counselor to submit a Fee Waiver Request (we accept the NACAC and College Board Fee Waiver request forms).

5. Financial Documentation Requirements

   The U.S. government requires all international applicants to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses before California Lutheran University (CLU) can issue an admission decision and the documents required to apply for a student visa.
   
   Applicants must submit a bank statement or other acceptable financial documentation showing a minimum balance of USD $35,000, including a valid issuance date, the account holder's (sponsor's) name, and available account balance, before an admission decision can be released. If admitted, students must submit an updated bank statement reflecting the final estimated annual cost of attendance before their Form I-20 can be issued.

6. Standardized Test Scores (Optional)

   California Lutheran University is Test Optional (view our official policy for more details). If you choose to apply without SAT or ACT please note this on the Common Application. 
   
   If you choose to submit standardized test scores, we will consider your highest section scores across all test dates from your SAT or ACT results (also known as super scoring). You can provide test score results by submitting an official score report through the testing agency (SAT code: 4088, ACT code: 0183), or by self-reporting all scores using the Test Score Form found in your Cal Lutheran application portal. We do not accept self-reported scores listed on the Common Application or transcripts. Enrolling students who were admitted with self-reported scores will be required to verify those scores by submitting an official score report prior to starting classes.

7. English Proficiency

   International students must submit proof of English proficiency. This can be demonstrated in a variety of ways, including English proficiency exams, completing high school in the US or in an English medium enviornment. Specific examinations and requirements can be found on our English Proficiency for International Applicants page.

8. Transcripts

   Official high school transcripts must be sent to us directly from schools you have attended through. Your high school counselor may submit these via online services such as Docufide, Naviance, and The Common Application, or mail in a physical copy to the Office of Undergraduate Admission.

9. Optional Interview

   Students who would like the opportunity to add an optional interview to their application review can do so in one of the following ways:
   • Visit campus. It is a great way to explore Cal Lutheran, connect with current students and meet with an admission counselor. Tours and interviews are available Monday through Friday in the morning or afternoon
   • Meet with an admission representative if they are visiting your area or through Zoom, WeChat, WhatsApp, Line, or another video conferencing app. 
   • Students in Asia have the option to interview with Vericant. California Lutheran University, in partnership with Vericant, provides in-person interviews for international applicants interested in showcasing English communication skils, unique experiences, and professionalism as a part of their overall application review. 

10. Final Review

    Double check your work and review thoroughly to ensure you have recorded your information accurately. Once your application has been submitted, you cannot go back in and edit it.

California Lutheran University recognizes and values diversity in our campus community and is dedicated to providing equal access and opportunities to qualified applicants regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, veteran status or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal or state law. Moreover, Cal Lutheran is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with various disabilities. Any applicant in need of assistance is encouraged to contact the admission office where they will be provided with reasonable services in a manner that promotes respect and self-advocacy.