Santa Clara University

Chartering Process

Designation as a Chartered Student Organization (CSO) may be granted to a group when it is clearly demonstrated that the organization:

• Has a purpose and goals that are consistent with, and contribute to, the educational mission and goals of the University in a direct and visible way;
• Assists the University in the implementation of co-curricular and extracurricular educational programs;
• Will involve and/or significantly benefit and serve a substantial portion of the University's student body and substantially add to the richness and quality of student life; and
• Meets a major need not currently being met by an existing chartered organization.

Status as a CSO carries with it a significant commitment by the University. The University provides the organizations with resources necessary to meet the expectations and responsibilities delegated to it. The resources include funding support, use of the University's equipment and facilities (including office space), and advisement by professional staff.

Requests for designation as a CSO are made to the Dean of Student Life. They should include the following:

• A constitution or similar statement describing the purpose and goals of the organization and clearly addressing how they meet the criteria outlined above;
• A description of services, publications, events, and/or activities the organization intends to offer to fulfill its purpose and goals;
• Position descriptions for leaders, officers, and staff of the organization outlining duties; responsibilities, and performance expectations,
• A description of the proposed organizational structure for the operation of the organization and membership criteria, including the criteria and process for selection/election of the organization's leadership; and
• A financial plan for the organization, including a proposed budget for the funds needed to support and fulfill its responsibilities.

The Dean will refer all requests to the Center's staff. The Dean shall also seek comment from the leadership of existing CSOs and the ASSCU Student Senate. If the proposed CSO meets the criteria, requests shall be forwarded to the University Policy Committee for Student Affairs for review and recommendation for action. The Dean will then make a formal determination. If approved, the Center will begin to assist the organization in obtaining necessary resources to fulfill its responsibilities.

Rechartering Process (pdf)

Chartered Student Organizations periodically undergo review to ensure they continue to meet the chartering criteria. These reviews are conducted by the Center and forwarded by the Dean of Student Life to the University Policy Committee for Student Affairs for recommendation for action. The Dean will then make a formal determination regarding the continued chartered status of the organization.