Coordinated Access Program (CAP)
The Coordinated Access Program is a pilot initiative available to San Diego State University students (as well as those at the University of California San Diego and Southwestern College) who cross the U.S.–Mexico border for educational purposes.
The program offers access to expedited pedestrian lanes at select ports of entry to help reduce wait times and improve the reliability of daily commutes during the academic term, and must only be used for academic-related purposes.
This program does not change immigration status or inspection requirements.
All participants must carry valid travel and immigration documents and follow CBP procedures at all times and can only use the program for educational, not personal or social, purposes.
The CAP Lane hours of operation are:
- San Ysidro Port of Entry: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Otay Mesa Port of Entry: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Calexico West Port of Entry: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Eligibility
Students may be eligible to participate if they are:
- Currently enrolled at San Diego State University
- Can be verified as an enrolled SDSU student for the academic year in which they are traveling (once approved, students have approval for one year and would need to update their information with CAP annually).
- Cross the U.S.–Mexico border for academic purposes, to include in-person classes, research and service projects
- Have valid travel and immigration documents
Eligibility and final approval are determined by CBP, and CAP participation is not guaranteed.
How to Apply
Participation requires completing the CBP application process. Incomplete applications may delay or prevent access.
Apply through CBP Link
Beginning in April 2026, eligible students can apply using the CBP Link mobile application.
Students will be asked to:
- Enter your assigned Authorization Code provided by SDSU (The code is provided by San Diego State University. To request the code, fill out the Google Form)
- Provide required biographical and document information
- Submit your application for review
After submission:
- You will receive a confirmation email
- A follow-up email will notify you of approval or denial
Students at the three participating higher education institutions can now begin applying for CAP through the CBP Link mobile app (available on the Apple App and Google Play stores).
Using the Expedited Lane
Once approved, students may use the designated CAP pedestrian lane at participating ports of entry, including San Ysidro and Otay Mesa.
Each time you cross, you must present:
- A valid WHTI-compliant document (passport, I-551, or F-1 visa)
- A current SDSU student ID
- Proof of CAP approval
Follow all posted signage and instructions at the port of entry. Failure to comply with program requirements may result in loss of CAP access.
Contact Us
CAP is intended for educational commuting only, not for personal or social purposes. Students are responsible for maintaining valid documentation and complying with all applicable federal requirements. If you have additional questions, email:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Coordinated Access Program (CAP)?
CAP is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) pilot program offering eligible students at three higher education institutions in San Diego access to an expedited pedestrian lane when entering the United States. CAP is managed by CBP; is not an SDSU program, though SDSU students do qualify.
When does the expedited lane become available?
Approved students may begin using the lane on April 23, 2026 at 6 a.m.
Does CAP change a student’s immigration status?
No. It does not alter immigration status or legal requirements. The program also does not change the CBP inspection requirements. Students must still carry all valid documents and comply with all laws and procedures.
Who is eligible to participate?
Currently enrolled students at SDSU, University of California San Diego and Southwestern College who cross the border for in-person academic purposes, to include classes, research and service projects. CAP cannot be used for personal purposes not connected to SDSU educational activities.
Must students be enrolled in a specific course?
Yes. Students must be enrolled in at least one class that requires physical attendance on campus (in-person or hybrid).
What information is required in the application?
Students will need to provide basic biographical details and travel document information:
- Proof of immigration status (passport, green card or I-20 with visa)
- SDSU RedID card.
- Proof of CAP approval in the CBP Link app (Apple App and Google Play).
When and where can students apply? How will students know if they are approved?
Students can start applying for the optional program in April 2026 through the CBP Link app, available through Apple App and Google Play. Students will receive email notifications confirming submission and final status from CPB after they apply. There is no cost to students for the program, the program is not mandatory and it also does not change a student’s immigration status. Verification is for 365 days, and students must carry a valid student ID card when using CAP.
Where do students get the authorization code?
The code is provided by San Diego State University. To request the code, fill out the Google Form.
Is participation guaranteed if a student applies?
No. Final approval is determined by CBP, not SDSU.
Is there a cost to participate?
There is no fee for applying to CAP, and the program is completely voluntary.
What documents are required at the border when entering the U.S. from Mexico?
Students will be required to show the officer at the International Boundary Line their WHTI-compliant entry document (Passport, I-551, F1 visa), a valid and current student ID and an approved CAP application.
Which ports of entry are included?
Initial locations include San Ysidro, Otay Mesa and Calexico entry points (pedestrian crossings only).
Can CAP be used for personal travel or social activities?
No. The program is strictly for educational commuting.
Does CAP guarantee faster entry?
No. While designed to reduce wait times, all travelers remain subject to CBP inspection and processing.
What are the hours of operation for CAP?
CAP lanes operate Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Use outside these hours may result in loss of access to the program.
How do I locate the CAP lane?
Follow posted signage on the Mexico side of the port of entry directing you to the CAP pedestrian lane. A vehicle lane is not offered.
Can I use CAP in a vehicle lane?
A: No. CAP is strictly limited to pedestrian lanes at San Ysidro, Otay Mesa and Calexico entry points.
Can access to CAP be revoked?
Yes. Failure to comply with program requirements may result in loss of access.
Where can students find more information?
Students should refer to the CBP Link app (Apple App and Google Play) for information and to also apply.
