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First-Year Students

Welcome to the Pack

 

CSUSB First-Year Students – Your Next Steps

Welcome to the Pack! We’re so excited to support you as you begin your journey here at CSUSB! 

Now that you’ve been admitted, here are the key steps every first-year student needs to complete to get started at CSUSB. Let’s get you ready for your first day at CSUSB!

Step 1: Activate myCoyote Account

Your myCoyote account gives you access to everything from your class schedule to financial aid info—so let’s get it set up!

  1. Click on the Account Activation tile
  1. Enter the info you used on your application:
    • Coyote ID# (you’ll find this in your application acknowledgment email)
    • Preferred First & Last Name (use what’s on your passport; if a name is blank, type a period “.”)
    • Date of Birth in this format: mm/dd/yyyy

Need help? 
Check out this step-by-step downloadable PDF guide or visit csusb.edu/my-account for support.

Step 2: Accept Admission Offer

Lock in your spot at CSUSB—it’s quick, easy and free!

As a first-year student, this is your first official step toward becoming a Coyote. By accepting your offer, you're saying yes to new experiences, lasting friendships, and a campus that's ready to support your goals. 

Steps to accept your offer:

  1. Log in to your myCoyote account.
  2. Select the ‘More’ drop-down under the ‘Accept or Decline Admissions’ Action Item.
  3. Choose the ‘Accept/Decline Admissions’ option to make it official.
Step 3: Register for and Attend Orientation

We’re so excited you’ve chosen Cal State San Bernardino! Orientation is your first step in becoming part of the Coyote community. It’s designed to make your transition smoother, connect you with fellow students and Orientation Leaders, and show you all the resources that will support you throughout your journey.

Your Orientation Experience

Orientation has three parts to help you feel confident, connected, and ready to start strong:

  • Pre-Orientation 
    Start with online modules you can complete at your own pace. You’ll get familiar with campus life, student services, and what it means to be a Coyote.
  • Orientation 
    Come to campus where you’ll meet other students, connect with staff and professors, get academic advising, and begin to experience all that CSUSB has to offer!
  • Connections 
    Get involved in campus events and programs that help you make friends and feel like part of the Coyote community.

First-Year Orientation: What to Expect

First-Year Orientation is a two-day, overnight experience on our San Bernardino campus. You’ll stay in Coyote Village with other new students, giving you a real feel for campus life.

It’s your chance to get connected, feel confident, and kick off your CSUSB journey with energy and support. Just make sure you’re available for both full days—no exceptions—so you don’t miss a thing!

How to Register

Step 1: Accept Your Admission 
Once you accept your offer of admission, it may take 24–48 hours before you can access Orientation registration in your myCoyote portal.

Step 2: Be Ready to Register 
Have these handy before you log in:

  • Your Coyote ID and myCoyote login
  • Your calendar (you’ll need to be available for both full days!)

Step 3: Register for Your Session

  1. Log in to myCoyote
  1. Click Checklist Items in the top navigation
  1. Select Orientation Registration and pick your date

You’ll get a confirmation and next steps in your CSUSB email—so keep checking it!

Need Help? 
We’ve got you! 
(909) 537-5233 
orientation@csusb.edu

For details on what to bring, Orientation fees, and more, visit the First-Year Orientation webpage.

Step 4: Submit Final Documents

You’re almost there! Just be sure to send in any final documents we need to complete your registration. All transcripts must be official and sealed. Faxed, scanned or emailed copies will not be accepted.

Visit Submitting Documents for Instructions

Step 5: Join Nearpeer – Start Making Friends Before the First Day

Starting at a new campus doesn’t mean starting alone. Nearpeer is an online platform that helps you meet other newly admitted transfer students who share your interests, goals, and background.

Learn How to Start Building Your Coyote Community

Have questions or need assistance?
We’re here to help! 
(909) 537-5188
askadmissions@csusb.edu 

 

What Our Students Are Saying

Cristina, Major: Psychology, "CSUSB cares a lot about their students, they’re here to serve you."

 

Financial Aid, Scholarships & Grants

Paying for college doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At CSUSB, we offer resources and support to help you and your family plan ahead and keep costs manageable. The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships can walk you through FAFSA or CADAA, connect you with scholarship opportunities, and answer your questions one-on-one.

Explore Financial Aid

 

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