The California State University system said it plans to resume in-person learning starting with the fall 2021 term.

“It's critical that we provide as much advance notice as possible to students and their families, as we have done previously in announcing our moves toward primarily virtual instruction," said CSU Chancellor Timothy P. White. “While we are currently going through a very difficult surge in the pandemic, there is light at the end of the tunnel with the promising progress on vaccines."

This news is coming just six days before its application window closes.

Prospective students apply to CSU campuses online through the Cal State Apply website. Application fee waivers are available, and there are robust financial aid programs for eligible students with need.

The early announcement is aimed at helping students and families as they plan for next year — and as they decide whether to apply to Cal State, university leaders said.