Take the SAT 1 or ACT by the end of October in the year before you intend to matriculate. For example, if you intend to attend Cal State Long Beach during the 2012-2013 academic year, take the SAT 1 or ACT by the end of October 2011.
Submit your application, preferably online, between October 1 and November 30 in the year before you intend to matriculate.
Complete the required California State University 15-unit course pattern before you graduate. To complete this, you must have taken two years of history and social science, four years of English, three years of math, one year of a biological science, one year of a physical science, two years of a language other than English, one year of a class in the visual and performing arts and one year of a college preparatory elective.
Complete the 15-unit course pattern with a minimum of a "C" grade point average before you graduate. However, earn the highest grade possible to ensure admission to Cal State Long Beach.
Graduate from high school.