California State University
General Information for California State University
Overview
The California State University (CSU) is the largest four-year public university system in the United States, offering broad access to higher education and upward social mobility for a highly diverse student population. Founded in 1960 under California’s Master Plan for Higher Education, the system serves more than 460,000 students across its multiple campuses and employs over 63,000 faculty and staff.
The CSU system offers more than 4,000 degree programs spanning bachelor’s, master’s, and joint doctoral options, aligned closely with workforce demands and regional economic needs. CSU emphasizes affordability, access, and educational outcomes, serving a student population that is ethnically and economically diverse, and focusing on serving California’s regions from the far north to the southern border.
Contact Informations (Address, phone number, email address)
Address: California State University System Headquarters, 401 Golden Shore, Long Beach, California 90802, USA.
Phone Number: +1-562-951-4000 (system offices)
Email Address: info@calstate.edu
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1960 (under the California Master Plan) |
| Motto | “Opportunity and Mobility” |
| Type | Public university system |
| Number of Students | More than 460,000 across the system (Fall 2024) |
| Number of Faculty & Staff | More than 63,000 faculty & staff |
| Number of Alumni | More than 4.3 million alumni globally |
California State University Rankings
| Ranking Category | Position / Comment |
|---|---|
| National (USA) | Recognized among the largest public university systems; specific campus rankings vary by institution and program |
| Global | The CSU system as a whole is not typically ranked as a singular global institution; individual campuses may appear in global listings |
California State University Academics
California State University Faculties / Departments
- College of Business & Economics
- College of Education
- College of Engineering, Technology and Construction Management
- College of Health & Human Services
- College of Humanities & Social Sciences
- College of Natural Sciences & Mathematics
- College of the Arts
- College of Professional & Global Education
California State University Courses and Programs / Majors
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration
- Master of Science in Engineering Management
- Master of Arts in Education Leadership
- Doctoral programs (joint) in Education, Engineering, or Health-Sciences related fields
Online Learning
The CSU system offers online learning opportunities through its campuses and system-wide initiatives. These include fully online degree programs, hybrid delivery formats, certificate programs, and professional development courses aimed at working adults and students requiring flexible schedules. The system emphasizes extending access to underserved communities through remote and digital mediums, aligning with its mission of accessibility and lifelong learning.
Average Test Scores (SAT, ACT, GRE, etc.)
| Test | Typical Range / Note |
|---|---|
| SAT | Standardized test scores are not required for freshman admission in many CSU campuses as the CSU system has moved away from reliance on SAT/ACT for first-time freshmen admissions. |
| ACT | Similarly, ACT scores are optional or not required in many cases. |
| GRE | For graduate programs, GRE requirements vary by campus and department; specific averages are not published system-wide. |
Retention and Graduation Rates
The CSU system places emphasis on student success and degree completion. While rates vary by campus, the system reports that over half of its students graduate with no debt and many receive financial aid. Retention efforts focus on first-generation students, underserved populations, and supporting transfer pathways. The diverse student body and broad access mission create both opportunity and challenges for graduation timelines, and the system continues working to improve four-year and six-year completion rates across campuses.
California State University Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
For freshman admission to CSU campuses, high school applicants typically present a competitive GPA (often in the range of 3.0 – 4.0 on a 4.0 scale) with college-preparatory coursework (A-G requirements in California) being key. Since the CSU system has de-emphasized or eliminated standardized test score requirements (SAT/ACT) for many campuses, emphasis is placed on coursework, GPA, and other holistic factors rather than specific test ranges.
California State University Acceptance Rate
| Category | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| System-wide admission | Variable by campus; specific system-wide rate not publicly aggregated in one figure |
California State University Application Requirements
Applicants to the California State University system must complete the system-wide application via the Cal State Apply portal, submit high school transcripts showing completion of the required A-G coursework in grades 10–12, demonstrate a minimum GPA (varies by campus and tier), submit a personal statement (freshman applicants), and for transfer students submit college transcripts showing requisite units and GPA. Some campuses may require letters of recommendation or supplemental essays for specific programs (e.g., impacted majors). Applicants typically need to provide documentation of immunizations, residency status, and financial aid forms. International applicants may need to submit proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) and submit equivalent credentials for secondary education. Campuses will also consider factors such as demonstrated leadership, community service, first-generation status, and other indicators of potential.
Application Process
- Create and submit the system-wide application via Cal State Apply for the desired CSU campus(es) and major(s).
- Pay the application fee (or request fee waiver if eligible) and submit required transcripts, test scores (if required), personal statement, and other supplemental materials.
- Attend an admissions evaluation for eligibility (e.g., review of A-G coursework, GPA, unit requirements).
- Receive admission decision and, if admitted, submit enrollment confirmation, housing application (if applicable), and orientation registration.
- Attend orientation, register for classes, and begin coursework.
California State University Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Term | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall freshman admission | October 1 – November 30 (varies by campus) |
| Spring admission | Varies by campus; often earlier in the calendar year |
Essay Prompt (if applicable)
Many CSU campuses require a personal statement or section of Cal State Apply where applicants respond to short essay prompts regarding educational goals, significant experiences, and how they will contribute to the campus community. For example, applicants may be asked: “What is the greatest challenge you have faced, and how did you respond? How will these experiences shape your approach to college and contribute to the CSU campus community?”
California State University Scholarships
The CSU system offers a variety of scholarships including merit-based awards, need-based grants, campus-specific scholarships, CSU system-wide awards, and external scholarships by donors and foundations. More than 80% of students in the CSU system receive some form of financial aid.
Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Student Category | Estimated Annual Tuition & Fees* |
|---|---|
| In-state (California resident) undergraduate | Approximately USD $6,000–$7,000 per academic year (system-wide average) |
| Out-of-state undergraduate | Higher than in-state; varies by campus |
| Graduate programs | Vary by campus and program, typically higher than undergraduate rates |
| *Note: Actual amounts vary by campus, program, housing status, and academic year; students should verify with the specific CSU campus. |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
The student population across the CSU system is highly diverse in terms of race/ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status. More than half of the students come from historically under-represented backgrounds and a significant portion are first-generation college-goers. While detailed system-wide breakdowns of gender and age are distributed across campuses, many CSU campuses report a mix of traditional age (18-24) students and significant numbers of non-traditional or adult learners.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
The CSU system places emphasis on supporting students from low-income backgrounds, offering extensive financial aid, scholarship opportunities, and campus support services. Tuition is among the lowest in the nation and nearly 84% of students receive financial aid. The system also provides accommodations, disability services, and inclusive support programs for students with disabilities to ensure equitable access and success in higher education.
Student Body (Total Students, International Students, etc.)
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total students (fall 2024) | More than 460,000 students system-wide |
| International students | Varies by campus; term “international students” included among diverse student body but not aggregated system-wide publicly |
University Diversity
The California State University system is known for having one of the most ethnically, economically, and academically diverse student bodies in the country. According to system data, the university educates a student population drawn from every region of California and emphasizes upward mobility for students from historically underserved groups. The system’s commitment to access and affordability is reflected in its tuition rates, the high percentage of students receiving financial aid, and the broad range of degree programs aligned with workforce demands. The rich diversity of the student body creates a vibrant educational environment where students engage with classmates of different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, preparing them for a multicultural workforce and global society.
Average Earnings
Graduates of the California State University system tend to experience meaningful earnings outcomes, reflecting the system’s focus on workforce-aligned degrees and applied learning. While specific average earnings vary by campus, program, and geographic region, the emphasis on affordability and an expansive alumni network of over 4.3 million supports strong career mobility. The system also promotes internships, industry partnerships, and career services to help students transition effectively into the workforce. For many alumni, the value of a CSU degree is not only measured in immediate salary but in long-term career advancement, regional economic impact, and contributions to community and industry.
California State University Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The CSU system employs over 63,000 dedicated faculty and staff who support instruction, research, student services, administration, and campus operations. Many faculty members are engaged in applied research, creative activity, and partnerships with industry, reflecting the system’s orientation toward real-world outcomes and regional impact. The ratio of full-time faculty to students varies by campus and specific program, and campuses continually recruit and retain faculty with diverse backgrounds and expertise to align with student needs and evolving disciplines.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Faculty across the CSU system bring deep expertise in fields ranging from engineering and computer science to nursing, education, business, and the arts. Many hold advanced degrees, serve as authors or principal investigators in grants, collaborate with community organizations, and engage in teaching innovations. The system’s commitment to faculty diversity and excellence is demonstrated by its recruitment efforts and support for professional development. These faculty engagements enhance the learning environment, enabling students to work alongside instructors who understand evolving industry trends, local and regional workforce needs, and the challenges faced by students from diverse backgrounds.
California State University Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Each campus within the CSU system offers a variety of housing options for undergraduate and graduate students, including residence halls, apartments, and family housing in some cases. On-campus housing costs vary by campus, room type, meal plans, and local living costs, but are generally designed to remain competitive relative to private housing in the region. Residential life programming often includes academic support, social events, community building, and living-learning communities tailored to specific majors or student populations such as first-generation students, STEM cohorts, or honors programs. Student life is further enriched by clubs, student government, athletics, cultural organizations, and community service opportunities. Housing availability and costs vary by campus, so students are encouraged to apply early and compare several campus options within the system.
Transportation
CSU campuses are supported by a variety of transportation options including campus-shuttle systems, partnerships with local public transit agencies, bike-friendly infrastructure, and parking facilities for students who commute. Many campuses are located in urban or suburban regions with access to regional airports, rail, or bus networks. On-campus mobility is often enhanced with pedestrian-friendly layouts, bike share programs, and ride-share partnerships. For commuting students, the CSU system emphasizes access to affordable and accessible transportation to ensure students can arrive on time, engage in campus life, and participate in extracurricular activities regardless of their home location.