California State University

California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), affectionately known as "The Beach," is a public university founded in 1949. Its 322-acre campus is situated in a metropolitan area. CSULB is one of the largest public universities in California and operates on a semester academic calendar. With approximately 3 million alumni, CSU graduates are leaders in various fields, including business, agriculture, entertainment, engineering, education, hospitality, and healthcare, which are vital to California's economy.

Things To Consider Before Applying

Applying to California State University requires a fair portion of work, even before applying. Preparing crucial documents, curating required letters such as recommendations and statement of purpose, and preparing degree transcripts and the marks they need to carry will decide your course of action. 

Entry Requirements:

California State University entry requirements for students are, they must meet the following general entry requirements, as well as any specific requirements for their chosen academic programme:

First-Time Freshman Admission Requirements

• GPA: A minimum GPA of 2.5 in college preparatory subjects is required.
• Coursework: Completing a comprehensive pattern of college preparatory courses with grades of C- or better.
• Application Period: Applications are accepted for the following fall semester from October 1 to November 30.
• Standardised Tests: SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission.

International Student Requirements

• English Proficiency: Applicants whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency through standardised tests (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS).
   
  • Minimum TOEFL score: 61 (iBT)
  • Minimum IELTS score: 5.5
• Application: International students must complete the International application and submit all required documents to the International Admission Office.

Graduate Admission Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree: A degree comparable to a U.S. bachelor's degree is required.
• GPA: A minimum GPA of 2.5 is typically required, with a recommended GPA of 3.0 for the last 60 semester (90 quarter) units attempted.
• Standardised Tests: GRE or GMAT scores may be required for certain programmes, but they are no longer mandatory for all graduate admissions.
• Application: Graduate applicants must submit their application through the Cal State Apply portal, along with required documents like transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

By meeting these criteria, applicants can enhance their chances of admission to CSULB.

Documents

To apply to California State University, Long Beach, applicants must submit several key documents as part of the application process. Here’s a summary of the required documents:

• Official High School Transcripts: Required to verify completion of college preparatory coursework.
• Standardised Test Scores: SAT or ACT scores are optional and not required for admission.
• Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of $70 must be paid at the time of application submission.
• Personal Information: Include your Social Security number (if applicable) and citizenship status.
• Extracurricular Information: Provide details about participation in college preparation programmes and work experience.
• Official Transcripts: From all post-secondary institutions attended, submitted electronically to CSULB.
• Bachelor's Degree: Proof of a completed bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
• GPA Requirement: A minimum GPA of 2.75 is typically required, depending on the programme.
• Letters of Recommendation: Two letters are often required.
• Résumé: A current résumé detailing academic and professional experiences.
• Short Answer Essay: A one-page essay responding to a specific prompt.
• Video Statement of Purpose: A 3-5 minute video addressing specific career goals and preparation for graduate courses.

How To Apply To California State University?

California State University's admission process is streamlined with distinct procedures for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. The application processes are distinct but straightforward if you aim to pursue either. Here is a step-by-step process for applying for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes:

1. Choose Your Application Term

• Select the term you want to apply for on the Cal State Apply website (e.g., Fall/Spring).

2. Create an Account

• Go to the Cal State Apply website and create an account. Students can also apply with the help of UniScholars website. 
• Use a personal email address that you will check regularly.

3. Select Your Campus and Programme
 

• Choose the CSU campus(es) you want to apply to.
• Select your desired major or programme.

4. Complete the Application

• Fill out all required sections of the Cal State Apply application.
• Provide details about your academic history, test scores, extracurricular activities, and more.

5. Submit Your Application

• Review your application for accuracy and completeness.
• Pay the non-refundable $70 application fee online via credit card or PayPal.

• Request official transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended.
• Submit any additional documents required by your specific campus or programme.

6. Check Your Application Status

• Monitor your application status through your Cal State Apply account.
• Respond promptly to any requests for additional information or documents.

7. Accept Your Offer of Admission

• If admitted, review your offer letter and accept your admission by the stated deadline.
• Submit any required enrollment deposits or forms.

Let UniScholars be your one stop destination for study abroad opportunities. Students can avail free counselling sessions, along with complete application support till the time they prepare to go abroad. Our experts are available 24x7 at UniScholars. 

Deadlines

Understanding the California State University deadlines is essential to ensure your submission is considered. 

Undergraduate Deadlines

• Fall Semester: Applications are accepted from October 1 to November 30.
• Spring Semester: Applications are accepted from August 1 to August 31 for transfer students.

Graduate Deadlines

• Fall Semester: Applications are accepted from October 1 to March 15 for international applicants. Domestic graduate applicants have varying deadlines depending on the specific programme.
• Spring Semester: Applications are accepted from August 1 to October 1.

Decision Dates

California State University releases admission decisions on a round-to-round basis, considering both Early Action and Regular Decision deadlines. Here are the key decision dates:

California State University Selection Criteria

California State University employs a comprehensive and holistic selection process to evaluate applicants, focusing on both academic achievements and personal qualities. Here are the key selection criteria:

Undergraduate Selection Criteria

• GPA: Minimum 3.0 GPA in college preparatory subjects per CSU minimum requirements.
• Coursework: Completion of a comprehensive pattern of college preparatory courses with grades of C- or better.
• Application Period: Applications are accepted from October 1 to November 30 for the following fall semester.
• Standardised Tests: SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission.

Graduate Admission Criteria

• Bachelor's Degree: A degree comparable to a U.S. bachelor's degree is required.
• GPA: Minimum 2.5 GPA, with a recommended GPA of 3.0 for the last 60 semester (90 quarter) units attempted.
• Standardised Tests: GRE or GMAT scores are no longer mandatory for graduate programmes.
• English Proficiency: Minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80 or IELTS score of 6.0 for graduate programmes.

California State University Acceptance Rate

California State University’s acceptance rate is 87%, with an application deadline set for December 16th. Admissions officials at the university highlight the importance of a student's GPA as a crucial academic factor. However, they do not consider high school class rank or letters of recommendation in their evaluation process.

Fees

California State University’s fees vary as per the level of study, choice of programme and the students residence area. The University has revised its fees and made it more affordable and attainable for every student.

Tuition Fees

• Undergraduate Programme: Approximately $17,720 per academic year.
• Graduate Programme: Approximately $26,544 per academic year.
• Cost per Semester (12 Units): Around $8,860.

Additional Costs

• Books and Supplies: Estimated at $1,253 per year.
• Room and Board: Ranges from $17,998 to $19,392 annually.
• Personal Expenses: Between $2,923 and $4,064 per year.
• Transportation: Estimated at $1,710 to $2,212 annually.

Total Estimated Cost of Attendance

• International Students: The average total cost of attendance is around $40,180 per year, which includes tuition, living expenses, and other fees.

Application Fee

• The application fee for CSULA is $70.

These figures provide a comprehensive overview of the financial commitments required for students planning to attend California State University, Los Angeles.