Placement Metric
Highest Package
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Represents the top salary package reported in the available placement information.
University Guide
About CSU-Chico
Explore overview, courses, fees, admissions, campus life, scholarships and student accommodation guidance in one premium Admistay guide.
California State University Chico is a public institution, founded in 1887. It has a total undergraduate enrollment of 16,099. California State University Chico's ranking in the 2023 edition of Best Colleges is Regional Universities West, #26. Its in-state tuition fees is 7,814 USD; out-of-state tuition fees is 19,694 USD.
With around 126 undergraduate courses and 35 master’s courses, the university offers academic opportunities to students who want to study in the USA. The university campus has been named as one of the greenest campuses in the country by the Princeton Review’s "Guide to Green Colleges". Notable Chico State alumni include Ken Grossman, cofounder and CEO of Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
California State University-Chico Rankings
As per the US News and World Report 2023, California State University ranked:| Category | Ranking |
|---|---|
| West Regional Universities | #26 |
| Best College for Veterans | #16 |
| Best Undergraduate Teaching | #22 |
| Top Performers on Social Mobility | #41 |
| Top Public Schools | #9 |
| Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs | #91 |
| Undergraduate Business | #308 |
Highlights
| Type of University | Public |
| Campus setting | Urban |
| Total Number of Full- Time Faculty | 989 |
| Total Student Enrollment (Fall 2022) | 17,019 |
| International Student % | 2.7% |
| Student-teacher ratio | 23:1 |
| Acceptance Rate | 65% |
| Application Fees | 70 USD |
| Test Scores Accepted | TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, ACT |
| Website | csuchico.edu |
California State University-Chico Campus
- The campus has proximity to San Francisco and Sacramento airport, interstate and highways, and the Amtrak train station
- The library complex contains approximately a million print volumes, more than 41,000 full-text articles, and journals, over 100 electronic databases with full Wi-Fi coverage and access on all floors.
- Sport-wise, the university has 13 Division II men's and women's athletic teams, with modern facilities such as an all-weather track, two gyms, stadia, softball fields, tennis and basketball courts, weight room, and other facilities.
California State University-Chico Residential Facilities
The university offers on-campus housing to its students. However, there is not enough space for every student to stay on-campus and they can, therefore, look for other student housing options near the university campus at affordable prices. These include homestays, shared, and rented apartments. The university gives priority to first-time freshmen students over on-campus housing and is encouraged to live within the University Housing communities.
- There are 6 residence halls named Sutter Hall, Shasta and Lassen Halls, Mechoopda and Esken Halls, Whitney Hall, Konkow Hall, and University Village.
- All students residing in university housing (on-campus and off-campus) are required to own a meal plan as this is usually added to the cost of the room. Meal plan ranges from 64 USD to 192 USD per semester
- The total cost of the room at California State University includes the cost of the room, meal plan rate, and RHA fees. This total cost also covers all utilities and access to Wi-Fi. The annual cost of the room ranges from 8,486 USD to 13,659 USD
CSU – Chico Programs
- CSU-Chico offers bachelor’s as well as master’s courses. All these academic programs are offered through the university’s ten colleges and several academic departments.
- The university also offers a number of graduate degree programs such as MBA, MS Computer Science, MPA, MA Psychology, etc. However, international students are not eligible to apply for the Agricultural Education, Math Education, and Nursing Programs.
- California State University also offer distance and online degree programs for students who cannot make it to the campus physically
- Study abroad opportunities are also available to all students regardless of the program of study. The most popular majors offered are Business Administration, Pre-Nursing, Psychology, Liberal Studies, and Criminal Justice.
| Course | 1st Year Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| MA Political Science | INR 10 Lakh |
| MBA | INR 10 Lakh |
| MS Environmental Science | INR 10 Lakh |
| MS Computer Science | INR 12 Lakh |
| MS Biological Sciences | INR 6.8 Lakh |
CSU – Chico Application Process
Where to Apply: For admissions to CSU-Chico, applicants can complete their applications online.
Application Fee: 70 USD
When to Apply:
| Semester | Undergraduate | Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Fall (August) | April 1 | March 1 |
| Spring (January) | September 30 | September 15 |
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate:
- Completion of secondary/high school program with a 3.0 (B in the U.S. system) or "Very Good" GPA
- The SAT/ACT is not required for admission. But higher-level test scores may allow an applicant to be placed into higher-level Math and/or English courses
Graduate:
- Completion of a 4-year university degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's degree determined by the International Graduate Admission Evaluator.
- Grade point average of at least 2.75 in the last 60 semester credits and at least 3.0 in the last 30 credits of course work completed. Depending on the overall qualifications, a lower grade point average may be considered
English Language Requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English are required to present an English Language proficiency test result. The following are the accepted English Language proficiency tests and their minimum scores
| Test | Undergraduate Minimum Score | Graduate Minimum Score |
| TOEFL-pBT | 500 | 550 |
| TOEFL - iBT | 61 | 80 |
| IELTS | 6 | 6.5 |
| PTE | 47 | 59 |
Other standardized language proficiency tests accepted at California State Universities are:
- Intensive English language program at the American Language and Culture Institute on the CSU, Chico campus
- Kaplan International Center program
- The UC Riverside Extension's Intensive English Program (IEP)
- The UCLA Extension American Language Center program
- The UC San Diego English Language Institute program
- The University of Southern California Intensive Language Program
After enrolling at the university, international students will have to apply for a student visa to the USA.
California State University-Chico Cost of Attendance
The tables below represent a moderate standard of living for full-time students attending calculated for a nine-month academic year. Components of the cost include direct university charges (fees and on-campus accommodation fees) and discretionary expenses (books, transportation, supplies, and personal expenses). The costs mentioned are just estimates as the actual costs payable by the student may vary markedly.
| Expenses | Undergraduate Fee (in USD) | Graduate Fee (in USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | 7,814 | 9,108 |
| International Fee | 9,504 | 6,336 |
| Books and Supplies | 1,150 | 1,142 |
| Room and Board | 13,500 | 13,500 |
| Personal Expenses | 1,566 | 1,566 |
| Transportation | 694 | 694 |
NOTE- There is an additional charge of 270 USD per unit for MBA courses. Therefore, the annual cost of attendance for the MBA program at California State University-Chico is 36,290 USD.
California State University-Chico Scholarships and Financial Aid
CSU-Chico offers a number of financial aid options which include scholarships, grants, loans, federal work-study, etc. The Financial Aid & Scholarship Office at CSU, Chico awards various types of scholarships to eligible students meeting the eligibility criteria.
- 15,000 USD Six Star Campus Scholarship Award: This 15,000 USD award is available to undergraduate and graduates international students in all fields. Applicants are expected to submit essays no longer than 1,000 words, or, - Video of up to 3 minutes in length demonstrating excellence, passion, and commitment in athletics, academics, and community involvement
- APIA Scholarship Program: This award is exclusive to Asian and/or Pacific Islanders who are citizens, national, or legal permanent residents of the United States, the Republic of the Marshall Islands. This scholarship is worth up to 20,000 USD and is awarded based on recommendation
- CSU offers various scholarships through Wildcat Scholarships. Students who are eligible are automatically considered for scholarships, ranging from bachelor's to doctoral level.
| Scholarship | Amount | Type of Scholarship | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wildcat Scholarships | Varying | Merit-Based | February 22 |
| President Scholar Program | USD 30,000 | Merit-based | December 15 |
Students can also look for outside international scholarships to study in the USA awarded by various private organizations and agencies.
California State University-Chico Alumni
The Alumni network of connects graduates of California State University with members enjoying benefits such as:
- Alumni Membership Card where members can gain access to different services in the school
- Local discounts to some selected shops
- Discounted Alumni Insurance Services
- Travel and hotel discount
- Wildcat Store Discount
Notable alumni of the school include:
- Brad Kaufman - Senior Vice President, Kiewit Energy Group
- Michael Finney - Reporter for ABC7
- Stephen C. Goodall - Retired, former president and CEO of J.D. Power and Associates
California State University-Chico Placement
- Annually, over 750 companies visit the school to conduct a recruitment exercise. These companies include but not limited to Apple, PayPal, Google, Chevron, Amazon, Twitter, Spotify, Ernst & Young, Intel Corp, and General Electric
- Most of the programs at California State University records a 100% job placement rates. Programs like Accounting, Business Information Systems, Agricultural Science and Education.
- Through the Handshake Job Portal, students can secure good internship placements and future jobs. Here is a list of salaries offered to alumni of California State University as per different courses: (According to Emolument)
| Degree | Salary |
|---|---|
| Bachelor of Arts | USD 81,000 |
| Bachelor of Science | USD 84,000 |
Courses & Fees
Compare courses in a cleaner, easier way
Explore tuition, duration, language, eligibility, and exam requirements without the clutter.
Courses
97
Fee from
₹9,18,697.56
Exams
IELTS · TOEFL
Showing 5 of 92 bachelors
Overview
Degree TypeBachelor
Duration4 years
Study ModeFull Time
LanguageEnglish
Fees
Tuition FeeINR 9.4 L/Yr
Native FeeUSD 10,080 /Yr
Admission Guide
Admission Process
California State University-Chico invites admissions in the Fall and Spring semesters to its over 300 undergraduate and graduate programs through 7 colleges, 5 schools, and 22 centers and institutes. It is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Admissions at California State University-Chico are slightly selective with an acceptance rate of 72% in the fall of 2022. More than 17,110 (16,164 undergraduate) students are enrolled in the university representing 52 Nations, 31 States, and 1 U.S. Territory.
Due to COVID 19, it has made SAT or ACT scores optional for admission for Fall 2022, Fall 2023, and Spring 2024 terms otherwise required to study in the USA. It will thus be using multi-factor admission criteria such as GPA, Local Admission Service area, Veteran Status, Extra-curricular Activities, and more.
- There are minimum GPA requirements to be eligible for admissions at CSU-Chico. A minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a scale of 4.0) is required for undergraduate admissions for international applicants.
- Graduate applicants require a minimum 2.75 GPA.
- Admitted applicants have the following academic profile:
- Average SAT score: 990-1180
- ACT Score: 18-24
- Average GPA: 3.47(admits)/3.36(enrolled)
- The most popular majors at CSU Chico are Business Administration, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Economics, Electrical & Electronic Engineering, International Relations, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, and Psychology
Highlights
| Application Portal | CAL STATE APPLICATION |
| Application Fee (non-refundable) | 70 USD |
| Acceptance rate | 65% |
| Average GPA range | 3.21 |
| Average SAT range | 1070-1240 |
| Average ACT range | 19-25 |
| English Proficiency | TOEFL, IELTS |
| TOEFL/SAT code | 4048 |
| Mode of Payment | VISA, Discover Card, Master Card, Pay Pal |
California State University-Chico Acceptance Rate
With an acceptance rate of 72% in the Fall of 2022, California State University-Chico admissions are slightly selective. A total of 25,908 applications were received in this admission intake, out of which, 18,653 students were offered admission. Thus fulfilling the minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee admission.
California State University, Chico Application Deadlines
Students are requested to submit their applications prior to the deadlines for them to be considered for admission. The University does not entertain late applications. Here are the deadlines for the enrolment seasons:
It invites admissions in the Fall and Spring semesters. Application deadlines depending upon the enrollment status are tabulated below.
Application Deadlines for International Students:
| Semester | Undergraduate - Freshman and Transfer | Graduate - Master's |
|---|---|---|
| Fall (August Start) | October 1 – April 1 | October 1 – March 1 |
| Spring (January Start) | August 1 – September 30 | August 1 – September 15 |
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the deadline for fall 2023 admissions for undergraduate courses has been extended to May 1, 2023. However, deadlines for graduate application remains the same.
California State University International Student Admissions
California State University accepts international students provided they have completed secondary education with grade point equivalency of 3.0, provided required official academic records, met the appropriate deadlines, and verified financial support for one academic year at least.
The admission application is similar for both international students willing to study in the US and domestic applicants. However, the admission requirements for international applicants are different from domestic applicants.
Application Portal: Students may apply online at the university’s official website by creating a CLA STATE account and thereby submitting the necessary information or by submitting the paper application. There is no separate form for international applicants.
Application Fee: 70 USD
Admission Requirements: International applicants must satisfy the following requirements in order to be eligible for California State University, Chico admissions:
- A completed admission application
- Official high school and college transcripts sent directly to CSU campus by the institution
- Transcripts evaluated and translated by an authorized agency, which are:
- TOEFL/IELTS score report sent directly to the university
- Proof of financial support
- Copy of passport biodata page
Optional Requirements: personal essay, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, resume, portfolios, auditions, and other tests such as GMAT, GRE, MAT, etc.
English Proficiency Test Score for International Students
International applicants are required to present a TOEFL/IELTS/PTE score to demonstrate English Proficiency. Students should note that these test scores are valid up to only two years from the test date. The minimum required scores by the university are:
| Test | Minimum Undergraduate Required Score | Minimum Required Graduate Score |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL- paper-based test | 500 | 550 |
| TOEFL- internet-based test | 61 | 80 |
| IELTS | 6 | 6.5 |
| Pearson PTE Academic | 47 | 59 |
Visa Process for International Students
International students can apply for a student visa to study in the USA right after an application letter is issued. Students whose applications have been approved will be issued the I-20 Form (F-1 visa) or DS-2019 (J-1 visa).
Aspirants will be required to submit the following documents while applying for a visa:
- Valid passport
- Proof of health insurance
- I-94
- Current United States Address and Phone Number
- Original I-20
- Receipt of 100 USD for I-901 fee payment
After the submission of the completed I-20 form and payment of the SEVIS fee, and all the required documents, students need to schedule an interview with the nearest US embassy.
California State University, Chico Undergraduate Admissions
It offers more than 340 undergraduate majors and minors in the field of Agriculture, Anthropology, Art, Biological Sciences, etc, and many more. The application process to apply to these programs as a freshman is discussed below:
Application Portal: Cal State Apply
Application Fee: 70 USD
Admission Requirements: Applicants must fulfill the following requirements to be eligible for California State University-Chico admissions:
- Completed Application
- Official High School Transcripts
- Must be accompanied by English translations if not in English.
- ACT or SAT Scores (Optional)
- Minimum GPA Required:
- 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 (International Applicants)
- California Residents with a GPA of 2.5 or above
- Non-California Resident with GPA of 3.00 or above
- Minimum of 15 acceptable academic units from an accredited high school for Domestic Applicants. International applicants must have taken equivalent courses.
- International applicants must submit English Proficiency Test Scores (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo)
- TOEFL (iBT 61)
- IELTS (6.0 total band score)
- Financial Affidavit
- Passport Copy (International Applicants)
California State University, Chico Graduate Admissions
California State University offers a graduate degree in around 25 fields to students from all over the world. Students applying must have a general GPA of 2.75.
Here are specific academic requirements for some of the popular graduate programs offered by the California State University:
| Requirements | MBA | MS- Biological Sciences | MA- Education | MA & MS- Psychology |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Application Fee (non-refundable) | 70 USD | 70 USD | 70 USD | 70 USD |
| Transcripts | Required | Required | Required | Required |
| GMAT/GRE | GMAT- 570+ GRE- 303+ |
None | none | GRE |
| Essay | Required | Required | Required | Required |
| Work Experience | Recommended | Not Required | Not Required | Not required |
| Professional CV/ Resume | Required | Required | Required | Recommended |
| Recommendations | Required (2 letters) | Required (2 letters) | Required (2 letters) | Required (3 letters) |
| Admission Interview | Via email | Via email | Via email | Via email |
International students can not apply for Agricultural Education, Math Education, and Nursing Programs.
The applicant is informed regarding the admission decision through e-mail within a few weeks of the successful submission of all the required documents to the CSU Chico admission authorities.
Students should note that ACT/SAT scores are not mandatory to be submitted at the time of admission but these results can be used by a student to get placed into higher-level English and/or Math courses. CSU Chico provides admission on a rolling basis until space fills, so students need to be a little patient to receive an admission decisions.
International students can put forward their admission related queries through International Education and Global Engagement, Student Services Centre, +1530-898-5415, [email protected].
FAQs
Ques. How can I apply to California State University-Chico?
Ans. Applications are made through Cal State Apply. An application fee of 70 USD is required as well.
Ques. What are the deadlines for Undergraduates Admissions at CSU Chico?
Ans. Applicants can apply by April 1 for the Fall admissions and September 30 for the Spring semesters.
Ques. What are the most popular majors at California State University-Chico?
Ans. The most popular majors at CSU Chico are Business Administration, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Economics, Electrical & Electronic Engineering, International Relations, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, and Psychology
Ques. What are the minimum GPA requirements to be eligible for California State University-Chico admissions?
Ans. There are minimum GPA requirements to be eligible for admissions at CSU-Chico. A minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a scale of 4.0) is required for undergraduate admissions for international applicants. Graduate applicants require a minimum 2.75 GPA.
Ques. How hard is it to get admitted to the CSU-Chico?
Ans. Admissions at California State University-Chico are slightly selective with an acceptance rate of 72% in the fall of 2022
Ques. Do I need to submit SAT/ACT scores to be eligible for CSU admissions?
Ans. Due to COVID 19, it has made SAT or ACT scores optional for admission for Fall 2022, Fall 2023, and Spring 2024 terms.
Ques. What are the admission requirements for distance education programs?
Ans. It is the same as for the on-campus admission requirements. Refer to the requirements on the official website for more details.
Ques. What is the Undergraduate and Graduate on-campus Tuition & Fees for one year?
Ans. It is estimated to be USD 7,868 for fall 2023-24 for undergraduates and USD 9,108 for graduates.
Placements & Recruiters
CSU-Chico Placement Details
CSU-Chico in Chico, California, United States placement details include salary insights, top recruiters, and hiring trends to help students understand career outcomes and campus opportunities.
Students usually compare highest package, average package, and recruiter profile before applying. This section gives a compact overview of career outcomes and placement visibility in Chico, California, United States.
Recruiters
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Salary Metrics
0/2
Placement Metric
Average Package
N/A
Shows the typical package range students may expect based on the available average salary data.
Placement information is currently limited.
More salary or recruiter data may be updated later for this college.
Rankings over the years
Year-wise highlights from global and country rankings available for this university.
2019
Highlights
2019
2019
- Best overall country rank: #283
- Overall: #283 in country
- Top source: FORBES
- 1 ranked streams
- Focus areas: Overall
- 1 ranking record in 2019
2020
Highlights
2020
2020
- Education: #38 in country
- Top source: ARWU
- 1 ranked streams
- Focus areas: Education
- 1 ranking record in 2020
2025
Highlights
2025
2025
- Social Work: #21 in country
- Top source: US News
- 2 ranked streams
- Focus areas: Social Work, Public Policy
- 1 ranking record in 2025
Contact Information
Student Reviews & Ratings
Overall sentiment and category-wise rating summary
Overall score
9.0/10
Top Rated
Based on 1 rating
Rating Breakdown
Visual summary of rating distribution and categories
Live Summary
Academic
8.0/10
Faculty
10.0/10
Infrastructure
10.0/10
Accommodation
10.0/10
Placement
6.0/10
Extracurricular
10.0/10