Graduate Program Application Process

Graduate School Application Deadlines

Our application deadlines

Fall Semester: May 15
Spring Semester: Oct. 15
International students require more time for visas and travel arrangements. For more information, please visit the Office of International Programs.

Apply to the Design and Merchandising Master's Program

Applying to our Design and Merchandising graduate program requires a number of important steps. Please take the time to read through the application process so you are prepared when it’s time to submit your application. Our Graduate Program Coordinator is available to answer any questions you can’t find on our website. Please note that, unfortunately, we are unable to give application fee waivers based on financial hardship. Please visit graduate school admissions for information about the circumstances in which fee waivers are given.

Choose Your Specialization

We offer two specializations that fall under our master’s program: Apparel and Merchandising and Interior Design.

Complete All Required Documents

Make sure you complete all the required documents before submitting your application. For our international students we have a few additional documents.

Ways to Apply for Free

The CSU Graduate School has options for graduate students to apply for free through institutional fee waivers, program affiliation fee waivers, and free application days.

Submit Your Application

The Graduate School website takes you through the steps to complete your application online. You can also go straight to the Graduate Admissions application page if you are ready.

What Happens After I Apply?

Check Your Application Status

Once you have submitted your application, you can check the status at any time. This is a great way to ensure your application checklist is complete or check for updates.

Apply for Financial Aid

Assistantships, fellowships, and financial aid are available. To be considered for assistantships and fellowships, please submit your graduate application by Feb. 1 for the fall semester and by Oct. 15 for the spring semester. Please note that there is not a separate application for assistantships and fellowships; your graduate application will serve as your application for these funding opportunities. You may, however, be invited to take part in a virtual interview as part of the assistantship and fellowship selection process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions about TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores? Where do you mail your transcripts? Check the frequently asked questions page to get quick answers.