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California Black-Serving Institution Application

Backgroun​​d

The designation of California Black-Serving Institution was established to recognize colleges and universities that excel at providing academic resources to Black and African American students enrolled in degree or certificate programs offered by colleges and universities. 

An initial designation awarded will be valid for five academic years. Thereafter, a recipient may submit an application for renewal.

Qualifying Institutions

An applicant is eligible for designation if the applicant meets all the following requirements: (1) Has at least 10 percent of the college’s or university’s enrolled student population identifying a​s Black and/or African American students or has at least 1,500 Black and/or African American students enrolled at the college or university. (2) Submits an initial or renewal application, as applicable, to the Statewide Central Office for the Advancement of Black Student Success on or before the application deadline.

2026 BSI Application

BSI Application

Application Deadline September 1, 2026

Download 2026 Checklist

2026 BSI Webinar


Register Here

2026 BSI Webinar Presentation

July 15, 2026

Additional Resources:

Black-Serving Institution Governing Board
Currently Approved BSI List