The University of California and California State University systems have announced they will accept online applications only starting in fall 2005.

An exception will be made for students who are unable to apply online. They will be able to print a version of the application from the Web and submit it by mail, or request a paper copy from the universities.

Last year, more than 70 percent of UC and CSU applicants used the Web to file their applications.

Officials with both systems said online applications benefit students and schools. Students are able to complete applications more accurately with computer prompts and error checks, they said, and schools can evaluate the applications more efficiently.