A Guide to Open University

Open University (OU) is a great way for non-admitted students to complete classes you need for future academic and professional goals, earn units towards a planned CSUF degree program, and support your readmission to Cal State Fullerton.

When can you take OU? 

Registration windows vary per semester/term. Fall 2026 semester classes begin on August 22, 2026. Students should enroll or Request for Approval by September 8. For more in-depth information, see the Fall Dates and Details page. 

Please note that enrollment is on a space-available basis.  

How do I enroll in OU? 

The five steps to enroll in the fall semester are: 

1. Book your OU Registration Date Window: this action will assign you an Open University registration appointment/access for a specific semester.
2. Check for Holds: be proactive and resolve holds before enrolling.
3. View the CSUF Schedule. 
4. Enroll or Request for Approval: after a permit is placed, complete enrollment in the Manage Classes tile. 
5. Process Payment: all fees are due at the time of enrollment.  

Please review Instructions to Enroll as well as the semester/term for additional specific dates and details.

How much are OU courses? 

Fees are $390 per unit. All fees are due in full at the time of enrollment, unless approved under some other agreement through University Extension Finance.

FAFSA awarded financial aid is not available for courses completed through Open University, because one is not in an admitted status with CSUF, when completing courses through Open University. CSUF University Extension provides information that may assist students to consider a private student loan program. 

See the Finanical Assistance page for more information. 

Interested? 

Osvaldo Flores credited his advisor as “very instrumental” to his journey of taking courses through Open University to graduating with a bachelor’s degree this year. See how Open University can support your academic goals by reading through the OU General Instructions and OU FAQs. For additional guidance, talk to Open University Advisors.