Study abroad at California State University, Monterey Bay

Learn more about studying at California State University, Monterey Bay as an international student.

California State University, Monterey Bay campus view
California State University, Monterey Bay logo

Key facts

  • Type
    Public
  • International students
    400
  • Nationalities
    50
  • Total programs
    68
  • University ranking
    Not ranked

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.

Illustration depicting a student navigating the journey of higher education. Elements include a diploma, graduation cap, magnifying glass with a puzzle piece, books, a "Hi!" speech bubble, and a university building in the background.

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.

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Scholarships at California State University, Monterey Bay

  • International Student Scholarship

    Official page

    A non-resident tuition fee waiver offered by CSU Monterey Bay specifically for F-1 international degree-seeking students, covering all or part of the non-resident portion of tuition. It is explicitly open to international undergraduates (as well as other international students) enrolled full-time (minimum 12 units for undergraduates). Eligibility requires demonstrated financial need, a history of exceptional scholastic performance (minimum 3.0 GPA), and community involvement or leadership experience in extracurricular activities. Applicants apply through the CSUMB Scholarships Portal (AcademicWorks) via the General Scholarship Application, submitting an essay and unofficial transcripts and identifying as an international student. Applications typically open April 1 and close May 17, with awardees notified by July.

All scholarship information on Studee is provided for guidance only. Always check the university's official scholarship page for the latest information on eligibility, award amounts, deadlines, and application requirements.

Fees

Fee information

  • Undergraduate tuition

    US$16,647 per year

  • Graduate tuition

    US$15,600 per year

Illustration of education and financial elements including a graduation cap, trophy, diploma, books, a piggy bank, stacks of cash notes, and coins, representing fees and funding.

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$2,099
Rent, 1-bed apartment outside centre$1,795
Utilities (electricity, heating, water, refuse)$158
Internet (60 Mbps unlimited)$64
Mobile phone plan (data + calls)$61Range: $30 to $110· USA average
Monthly public transport pass$54
Monthly grocery basket$193
Coffee shop drink$5
Cinema or cultural event ticket$13
Gym membership$57

Indicative monthly costs per person.

Data sourced from livingcost.org (Crowdsourced) and 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.

Illustration showing aspects of student life, including a student with a book and pencil, various books, a laptop, fast food, and iconic educational symbols like a graduation cap and a university building.

Facilities

  • Fitness Centre
    • Machines
    • Swimming Pool
    • Free Weights
    • Fitness Classes
  • Transport
    • On-Campus Shuttle
    • Campus Bus Service
    • Airport Shuttle Service
    • Bike Rental
    • Car Rental
    • Campus parking
  • Clubs & Organisations
    • 105 Clubs & Organizations
  • Praying Rooms
    • Language Center
    • Group Praying Rooms
    • Workshops
    • Chaplaincy
  • Library
    • Computer labs
    • Quiet Areas
    • Individual Study Rooms
    • Group Study Rooms
  • Healthcare & Medical
    • Counselling & Mental Health Services
    • Campus Pharmacy
    • Campus Doctor
  • IT Support
    • Loan Laptops
    • Campus Wireless Connectivity
  • Tutoring Support
    • Academic Tutoring & Support
    • Peer & Buddy Program
    • Student Tutoring & Support
  • Food & Restaurants
    • 3 Restaurants
    • 2 Cafe’s
  • Sports Facilities
    • Sport facilities

Student reviews for California State University, Monterey Bay

Overall rating

0
0 reviews
There are currently no reviews for this university

What California State University, Monterey Bay says

  • Headshot of Sugeyth Ronquillo
    Sugeyth Ronquillo
    Sugeyth 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.