California State University, San Bernardino Overview

California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) is a public university established in 1965. Located in the Inland Empire region of Southern California, it is part of the California State University system. With a diverse student body and a strong commitment to academic excellence, CSUSB offers a supportive environment focused on student success, social mobility, and community engagement. It serves over 20,000 students across its main campus in San Bernardino and the Palm Desert Campus.

California State University, San Bernardino Offered Programs

  • Business Administration
  • Criminal Justice
  • Psychology
  • Nursing
  • Computer Science
  • Biology
  • Public Administration
  • Education (Teaching Credentials and Master’s Programs)
  • Social Work
  • Health Science
  • Environmental Studies
  • Communication Studies
  • Mathematics
  • Chemistry
  • Political Science
  • Economics
  • English Literature
  • Sociology

California State University, San Bernardino Tuition Fees

Student TypeEstimated Annual Tuition
California Residents$6,900 – $8,100
Non-Residents / International$18,000 – $18,200

California State University, San Bernardino Required Documents and Admission Requirements

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • GPA of 2.5 or higher (for California residents)
  • GPA of 3.0 or higher (for non-residents)
  • SAT/ACT scores (optional)
  • English language proficiency: TOEFL iBT 61, IELTS 5.5, or Duolingo 95

Graduate Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Minimum GPA of 2.5 in last 60 semester units
  • Some programs may require GRE or GMAT
  • English language proficiency: TOEFL iBT 79, IELTS 6.0, or Duolingo 105
  • Letters of recommendation, statement of purpose (varies by program)

California State University, San Bernardino Deadlines

TermApplication OpensApplication DeadlineDocument Submission Deadline
Fall 2025October 1, 2024June 1, 2025June 30, 2025
Spring 2026August 1, 2025November 1, 2025November 30, 2025

California State University, San Bernardino Scholarships Offerings

CSUSB offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid options including:

  • Presidential Academic Excellence Scholarship
  • College-specific and departmental scholarships
  • Need-based grants
  • Federal Work-Study opportunities
  • Scholarships for international students
  • External scholarships and private funding

California State University, San Bernardino Rankings

SourceU.S. RankWorld Rank
U.S. News (Regional West)40
U.S. News (Top Public Schools)20
Wall Street Journal (Mobility)3
Washington MonthlyTop 100
Money MagazineTop 50 Best Value

California State University, San Bernardino Acceptance Rate

CSUSB has an estimated acceptance rate of around 90%, making it an accessible university for many applicants while still maintaining academic standards.

California State University, San Bernardino Student Campus Life (with accommodation options)

CSUSB offers a dynamic student life with over 100 student clubs, cultural organizations, leadership programs, and intramural sports. The Santos Manuel Student Union is the hub of student activities. The campus also has a fitness and recreation center, dining services, and arts and performance venues.

On-Campus Housing Options:

  • Coyote Village (first-year students)
  • Arrowhead Village (apartment-style living)
  • University Village (sophomore, junior, senior housing)

Campus Highlights:

  • Health and Counseling Center
  • Career Center
  • Diversity and Inclusion Programs
  • Student Leadership and Engagement Office

California State University, San Bernardino Cost of Living

Living in San Bernardino is relatively affordable compared to other parts of California. Students should budget for housing, food, transportation, books, and personal expenses.

Expense CategoryEstimated Annual Cost
Room & Board$13,500
Books & Supplies$2,000
Transportation$2,800
Personal Expenses$4,000
Health Insurance$1,750
Total (approximate)$24,000 – $25,000

California State University, San Bernardino Contact Informations

  • Phone: +1 (909) 537‑5000
  • Email: info@csusb.edu
  • Address: 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino, CA 92407, USA
  • Palm Desert Campus: 37500 Cook Street, Palm Desert, CA 92211

California State University, San Bernardino Online Application

Students can apply online through the Cal State Apply portal. The application process involves submitting academic records, test scores (if required), proof of English proficiency (for international students), and paying the application fee. Early application is recommended for the best chance at program and housing availability.