San José State University

Second Start Program

The Second Start Program at San José State University provides a renewed pathway for former undergraduate students to return and complete their degree. Designed for students who have been away from the university for at least three years and who left with a GPA below 2.0, this program offers a unique opportunity to re-enroll with additional support and a fresh academic start.

What Is the Second Start Program?

Second Start is a California State University (CSU) systemwide initiative aimed at reducing barriers for students whose academic progress was interrupted. At ±«ÓãÖ±²¥, the program is designed specifically for former students who:

  • Were previously disqualified or left the university in less-than-good academic standing
  • Have not enrolled at another institution since leaving ±«ÓãÖ±²¥
  • Are seeking to return to San José State to complete their undergraduate degree
  • Have been away from the CSU system for three or more years

Program Benefit: Academic GPA Reset

Students returning through Second Start will be eligible for a reset of their cumulative and resident GPA, based on specific criteria:

  • The GPA earned prior to departure will no longer impact the student’s academic standing going forward
  • Returning students must complete at least 12 units of graded coursework within 12 months of re-enrollment
  • A 2.5 GPA or higher must be earned in those first 12 units to maintain eligibility and remain in the program

This policy is intended to provide students with a meaningful opportunity to demonstrate academic improvement and progress toward degree completion.

How to Return: 4 Key Steps

To re-enroll through the Second Start Program, eligible students must complete the following steps:

  1. Submit the ±«ÓãÖ±²¥ Return Form
    This form indicates your intent to return to ±«ÓãÖ±²¥ and allows the university to begin reviewing your eligibility.
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    Meet With an Academic Advisor and Sign a Return Contract
    Advisors will review your academic history, degree requirements, and explain how the GPA reset applies to your specific record. Students will finalize the process by signing a Return Contract that outlines expectations and next steps.

  2. Receive an Enrollment Appointment
    Once your contract has been signed and your reentry plan approved, you will be assigned an enrollment appointment.

  3. Register for Classes
    Log into your ±«ÓãÖ±²¥ student account during your appointment window to register for courses for your return term.

Important Considerations

  • This program is available only to students returning to the same CSU campus they previously attended.
  • Students who have taken courses at another college or university since leaving ±«ÓãÖ±²¥ are not eligible for this program.
  • Catalog rights, General Education (GE) patterns, and degree requirements may differ from when you were last enrolled. Your advisor will help determine your new academic plan.

    Ready to Return?

    The Second Start Program is an opportunity to rejoin the San José State community with renewed academic standing and a clear path to degree completion.

    If you are ready to begin the process, start with the ±«ÓãÖ±²¥ Return Form and connect with an academic advisor.


    Contact Us for More Information: spartansecondstart@sjsu.edu