Frequently Asked Questions about SIRF
On January 28, 2015, the CSU Board of Trustees approved a new voluntary $2 Student Involvement and Representation Fee (SIRF) assessed twice a year in the fall and spring terms. The fee was effective Fall 2015 and is assessed at the same time as Registration and Tuition Fees. SIRF is voluntary and allows students the choice to opt out via the student's portal at or by the time of fee payment, up to 30 calendar days following the term's census date.
Purpose of CSSA?
The Student Involvement and Representation Fee (SIRF) is used to support the student leadership, involvement, governance, and advocacy programs managed by the California State Student Association (CSSA). CSSA is an independent, non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization comprised of elected student leaders from all of the 23 CSU campuses with the sole purpose of representing CSU students to the California State University system and to the state and federal government, ensuring students are active participants in the decisions that shape their education.
Purpose of the $2 Fee?
Revenue from the fee will be used to ensure that students are able to meaningfully fund the activities of the CSSA and thereby ensure the overall ability of students to participate in policy development and higher education initiatives at the system, state, and national levels. Revenue from the fee will provide additional funding support for the development of student policy recommendations, participation in system, state, and national governance, involvement in leadership development activities, and program support through student and professional staff administration. Because CSSA is an independent, not-for-profit organization governed by Associated Students leaders, the use of this fee will always be determined by students.
Paid by Financial Aid?
Financial aid sources that are not restricted to the Tuition Fee or mandatory fees may pay SIRF.
Do Fee Waivers or Veteran Benefits Apply to the SIRF Fee?
No, SIRF is not waived by fee waivers such as Cal Vet Dependent, CSU Employee or Dependents, or Allan Pattee. SIRF is not included in Registration and Tuition Fees amounts certified for Veteran Benefits.
How Do I Opt Out of SIRF?
Students can opt out after the fee has been assessed to their student account in fall and spring terms. SIRF is assessed at the same time as Registration and Tuition Fees.
To opt out, log into your my.calpoly.edu portal and access your Student Center. Scroll to the 'Finances' section and use the 'other financial' drop down option to select 'account activity'. An OPT OUT icon will appear to the right of the $2 charge titled 'Student Rep Fee SIRF' along with an icon on the left for more information. Simply click the OPT OUT icon if you choose to opt out.
The OPT OUT option is only available at or before the time of fee payment, up to 30 days following census date. The last day to opt out for term will be published in fee schedules at fees.calpoly.edu and in the 'Important Financial Dates' portlet on the 'Money Matters' tab of the student's portal.
How Do I Obtain Additional Information About CSSA?
For additional information about CSSA or the use of SIRF visit CSSA's website at http://www.csustudents.org/ or use the “CSSA Student Involvement & Rep' link in your Student Center. Contact CSSA at (562) 951-4025 or staff@csustudents.org.
Additional Questions or Need Assistance?
Contact Student Accounts at studentaccounts@calpoly.edu or 805-756-1428. Visit our office in Admin Bldg 01, Room 211.