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Key facts
- TypePublic
- International students400
- Nationalities50
- Total programs68
Study abroad at California State University, Monterey Bay
California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB) is an award-winning campus, part of the 23 California State University system. CSUMB offers students a top-quality education in an unforgettable location.
Not only is CSUMB nestled amongst the immaculate beaches and redwood forests of the Californian coast, it’s also based on the site of a historic US army base. With guaranteed and affordable residence halls, great athletic facilities, and numerous student-run societies to join, CSUMB has everything you need for the total university experience.
25 undergraduate degrees and seven graduate programs are offered in the sciences, arts, humanities, and liberal studies. The university combines small class sizes and hands-on experience with passionate faculty to create an empowering learning environment for every student.

Why study at California State University, Monterey Bay
- Financial support
Over 70% of students receive financial support to help them reach their educational ambitions
- Heart of the community
CSUMB is the only university to have twice been awarded the President’s Award for Higher Education Community Service
- Affordability
CSUMB has the lowest tuition fees in the entire California State University system
- Beautiful location
The shores of Monterey Bay are just a stone’s throw from campus, providing the perfect spot for outdoor study, relaxation and recreation
Location
California State University, Monterey Bay
100 Campus Center, Seaside, CA 93955, United States
Monterey Bay is on the central coast of California, just two hours south of San Francisco. The bay itself is one of the largest marine protected areas in the world and home to whales, deep-sea anglerfish, and of course our mascot, sea otters.

Programs
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Fees and funding
Fee information
- Undergraduate tuition
US$16,647 per year
- Graduate tuition
US$15,600 per year

What is the cost of living near California State University, Monterey Bay?
| Category | Cost (in United States Dollar) |
|---|---|
| Rent, 1-bed apartment in city centre | $1,652 |
| Rent, 1-bed apartment outside centre | $1,349 |
| Utilities (electricity, heating, water, refuse) | $214 |
| Internet (60 Mbps unlimited) | $73 |
| Mobile phone plan (data + calls) | $61 |
| Monthly public transport pass | $65 |
| Monthly grocery basket | $350 |
| Coffee shop drink | $5 |
| Cinema or cultural event ticket | $15 |
| Gym membership | $45 |
Indicative monthly costs per person.
Data sourced from numbeo.com (Crowdsourced).
Visa requirements for California State University, Monterey Bay
Many international students will require a visa to study in the US, and this is a vital step of your study abroad journey. Make sure you understand the requirements you may need to meet before applying.
Life at California State University, Monterey Bay
CSUMB is committed to building multicultural understanding and international awareness. To help create this inclusive and diverse learning environment, the university has plenty of support structures in place for international students.
You’ll arrive and move into your residence halls earlier than domestic students. This gives you plenty of time to settle into campus life and enjoy the international student orientation activities.
As part of your orientation, you’ll meet the staff at the international center. They’re always happy to help with immigration concerns, health insurance questions, or anything else related to your student experience. They also organize several trips throughout the year to some of California’s most famous attractions.
All incoming international students are matched with an existing CSUMB buddy. Your buddy can help you navigate campus, introduce you to fellow students, and go to social events with you.

Facilities
- On-Campus Shuttle
- Campus Bus Service
- Airport Shuttle Service
- Bike Rental
- Car Rental
- Campus parking
- 2 Cafe’s
- 3 Restaurants
- 105 Clubs & Organizations
- Language Center
- Group Praying Rooms
- Workshops
- Chaplaincy
- Computer labs
- Quiet Areas
- Individual Study Rooms
- Group Study Rooms
- Counselling & Mental Health Services
- Campus Pharmacy
- Campus Doctor
- Swimming Pool
- Free Weights
- Machines
- Fitness Classes
- Loan Laptops
- Campus Wireless Connectivity
- Academic Tutoring & Support
- Peer & Buddy Program
- Student Tutoring & Support
- Sport facilities
Student reviews for California State University, Monterey Bay
What California State University, Monterey Bay says
Sugeyth RonquilloSugeyth Ronquillo says:CSUMB is made up of about 5% international students, with the goal of achieving a 10% international population. This means that students have the extraordinary opportunity to engage with their peers from all over the world, while also receiving a truly American educational experience.
Our diverse, friendly student body receives personal attention in an intimate classroom setting with modern equipment to provide interactive and hands-on training.
Our students strive academically with undergraduate research and internship opportunities with nearby organizations in Monterey Bay, San Francisco, and Silicon Valley.
We are a residential campus and offer a multitude of services on campus such as tutoring, academic advising, career advising, student disability resources, counseling, etc. Facilities on campus include dining commons, a variety of restaurants and cafes, a library, a Student Union with study rooms and game rooms, a gym, an aquatic pool, laboratories for science-related fields, World Theater. Students can apply for Optional Practical Training once they have completed their degree program.
