How to Apply

The application process is entirely online. No items need to be mailed, upload all of your application items to your application account.

1. Create an account. Then, complete the application at your own pace.
2. Ensure that your uploaded documents are easy to view online.
3. Complete all required sections.
4. Save often, submit once. You may access and update your application as many times as you like before submission. You are encouraged to submit your completed application a few weeks before the deadline.

Application Requirements

1. Completed online application with non-refundable $55 application fee.
2. One set of unofficial transcripts from each university/college previously attended. For U.S. applicants, the degree must be from a regionally accredited university/college. An applicant with a pending degree must provide official verification of expected degree completion from institution's Registrar or school official. An undergraduate degree is required to apply to a master's program. A master's degree is required to apply for a doctoral program. Please note: if admitted you will need to submit official transcripts prior to enrolling.
3. Applicants must have earned their Bachelor's and/or Masters' degrees from a regionally accredited institution. They must provide a background of academic preparation and/or professional experience that demonstrates their ability to pursue graduate level programs.
4. MA and Credential applicants: Recommended GPA of 2.75. 
5. Two current letters of recommendation, noting suitability for graduate work.
6. Current résumé.
7. A Statement of Intent - Applicants should address how they will support and advocate for culturally and linguistically diverse K - 12 students with mild to moderate disabilities. In addition, they should outline the purpose for seeking admission to the Special Education MA/Credential program; including career and academic goals.

Basic Skills Requirement & Subject Matter Requirement

The Basic Skills Requirement (BSR) and the Subject Matter Requirement (SMR) are not required for admission to USF.

Basic Skills Requirement (BSR)

As of June 29, 2024, the BSR can be met through USF’s verification of your bachelor's or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution. If you previously met the BSR through one of the other available options, please note that you do not need to submit this documentation with your application.

Subject Matter Requirement (SMR)

SMR can be met through passage of the applicable California Educator Credentialing Examinations (CSETs), or through USF’s verification that previous coursework or degree majors fulfill the requirement.

In some cases, previous coursework or degree majors can satisfy part or all of the SMR. USF will review your transcripts for SMR during the admissions process, after the application has been reviewed by program faculty, and admitted students will receive further information about their SMR status and guidance about how to fulfill any remaining sections of the SMR, if applicable.

If not met at the time of admission, Completion of the SMR through coursework, examination, or a combination of these options is required prior to enrollment in Student Teaching II/III and/or a credential recommendation (including an intern credential).

You can review CTC-approved options for meeting the SMR at ca.gov.

Contact schoolofeducation@uscfca.edu if you have questions about these requirements.

Note: International students who will study on a F-1 student visa must complete the BSR and SMR requirements prior to applying to a USF credential program.