Hayward, California. – Graduated from high school and going to college is an important transition in a young person’s life.

A program that gives high school students in the Hayward and San Leandro Unified School Districts a direct path to Eastern Bay of the State of California aims to make it more fluid.

Thursday was “Signing Day,” as university and HUSD administrators made the program official, providing qualified students with the opportunity to continue their education.

If they have a 2.5 GPA and are on track to graduate, students automatically receive a letter of admission to Cal State East Bay, eliminating the stress of applying. They do not need to submit a formal application.

Along with admission, SLUSD and HUSD students receive academic support services and financial aid.

Hayward High senior Anabelle Cardenas said after working hard and taking advanced classes, she can’t wait to become a Falcon next fall.

“It means a very easy and stress-relieving way to go to college that ensures I have a great college experience,” Anabelle said.

Her proud mom, Angel Cardenas, recalled how stressful college application season can be for high school students.

“I think there are a lot of students who have no idea how to do it, they don’t understand it or their parents don’t understand it, and knowing that it’s automatic really takes away part of this uncertainty,” she said.

Cal State East Bay President Cathy Sandeen said she graduated from San Leandro High School and attended a Cal State school as a first-generation student.

She said she is grateful to play a role in providing access to today’s students.

“I know that earning this bachelor’s degree will open many doors for them,” Sandeen said.

She said the university receives more than 400 applicants from Hayward each year. But now hundreds more will automatically qualify and receive direct admission.

“Most of our students at Hayward Unified are first-generation college students, they may not have the vision that they can attend college,” she said.

As school districts across the state face severe budget constraints, this program is fighting back and keeping students local, according to HUSD Superintendent Jason Reimann.

“This partnership is important because students will continue their four-year college education,” he said. “It’s just as important to know that they’re attending a university that is well-connected and investing in them and the community.”

As part of the program, Cal State East Bay counselors will contact students before they enter 12th grade to help them get involved early and help them apply for financial aid.

Reimann said HUSD is the first school district to be part of the guaranteed admissions program, followed closely by SLUSD.

The CSU System is also working with the Riverside County Office of Education to offer eligible high school graduates direct admission to 10 of 23 schools next fall.