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California State University, Monterey Bay

: We maximize your chance of getting admitted

The smart alternative to applying direct for a degree at California State University, Monterey Bay and the easy way to find programs that match your eligibility and aspirations

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Uni facts

Seaside, USA
  • Type
    Public
  • International students
    400
  • Nationalities
    50
  • Total programs
    79

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.

Find & apply to programs at California State University, Monterey Bay

Find programs you love that match your needs & aspirations, where you stand a high chance of acceptance.

Program level

Why study at CSUMB?

  • 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

Life as an international student

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.

What California State University, Monterey Bay says

  • Sugeyth Ronquillo

    Sugeyth Ronquillo

    California State University, Monterey Bay Academic Programs Coordinator
    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.

Student life & facilities

Group of students planning a presentation in a living room
  • Library
    • Individual Study Rooms
    • Computer labs
    • Group Study Rooms
    • Quiet Areas
  • Praying Rooms
    • Workshops
    • Chaplaincy
    • Language Center
    • Group Praying Rooms
  • IT Support
    • Loan Laptops
    • Campus Wireless Connectivity
  • Transport
    • Campus Bus Service
    • Bike Rental
    • Car Rental
    • Campus parking
    • Airport Shuttle Service
    • On-Campus Shuttle
  • Food & Restaurants
    • Restaurants 3
    • Cafe’s 2
  • Fitness Centre
    • Machines
    • Free Weights
    • Fitness Classes
    • Swimming Pool
  • Healthcare & Medical
    • Campus Pharmacy
    • Counselling & Mental Health Services
    • Campus Doctor
  • Clubs & Organisations
    • No. of Clubs & Organizations 105
  • Sports Facilities
    • Sport facilities
  • Tutoring Support
    • Student Tutoring & Support
    • Academic Tutoring & Support
    • Peer & Buddy Program

How we maximize your chance of getting admitted

  1. Programs matched to you

    Filter 10,000s of programs down to a shortlist perfect for you, where you have a strong chance of getting admitted

  2. Apply online via Studee

    Complete our application form and only answer the same question once no matter how many programs you apply for

  3. Review, improve & submit

    We rigorously assess your application to ensure you have the best chance of getting admitted before we submit it

  4. Reminders & guidance

    Relax - never miss a deadline or request that could cost you an offer with clear, day-by-day updates on what needs to be done

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Fees and funding

Fee information

  • Undergraduate tuition: US$16,647 per year
  • Graduate tuition: US$15,600 per year

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.

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.

USA student visa requirements