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California State University-San Marcos
N/A(0)
VerifiedPublicEstd. 1989
Founded
1989
Type
Public
University Guide
About California State University-San Marcos
Explore overview, courses, fees, admissions, campus life, scholarships and student accommodation guidance in one premium Admistay guide.
California State University - San Marcos is a public university located in San Marcos, California. It is the 20th campus in the 23 universities of California State University which is the largest public higher education system. CSUSM has an enrollment of over 16,000 including 14,800+ undergraduates and nearly 1,200 graduates. The student body comprises around 9% international students who bring diversity to the campus.
The university is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. CSU San Marcos offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees through its 4 schools and colleges. Out of the 4 divisions of the university, the College of Humanities, Arts, Behavioral and Social Sciences have the highest enrollment of 48% of the total students. It is recognised among the regional universities west and top public schools according to the U.S. News and World Report. The university is also ranked in the top 25 institutions for undergraduate teaching.
California State University-San Marcos Rankings
California State University-San Marcos is a renowned institution of the U.S. education system with remarkable rankings in various categories on different education portals. Cal State University is a popular institution in the U.S. with the following rankings:
U.S. News and World Report
- #60 in Regional Universities West
- #22 in Best Undergraduate Teaching
- #13 in Top Performers on Social Mobility
- #28 in Top Public Schools
THE World University Rankings
- 401-500th in U.S. College Rankings
Highlights
| University Type | Public |
| Establishment Year | 1989 |
| Location | San Marcos, California |
| Campus Setting | Suburban |
| Parent University | California State University |
| Mode of Program | Full-time, part-time, online |
| Total enrollment | 14,519 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 26:1 |
| Retention rate | 79% |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Work-study | Available |
| Financial Aid | Scholarships |
California State University-San Marcos Campus
- The campus of California State University San Marcos sits on 304-acre in the foothills above the city of San Marcos.
- The university has a total enrollment of 17,000 students annually. Currently, the university has 373 international and exchange students of which 15% are from India.
- It has two campuses based in San Marcos and Temecula that are easily accessible to the city by local transportation. Students also receive a travel pass and can avail discountson transportation.
California State University-San Marcos Residence
- The university offers two types of on-campus housing facilities called University Village Apartments (UVA) and The QUAD-in North City.
- The QUAD Apartments are an affiliated living system for students in a modern community that is located right opposite the new campus building. The rooms can be accessed using a key card and offer laundry rooms, a pool, fitness center, a fire pit and a BBQ grill.
California State University-San Marcos Courses
- California State University-San Marcos offers a plethora of programs including 43 undergraduate programs, 24 graduate programs, 8 credential programs and 1 joint-doctorate degree program.
- Many international students are also enrolled in the American Language and Culture Institute. It also offers extended learning educational programs.
- The College of Business has specialized and fully employed MBA programs across three specializations.
- 100% of the full-time faculty members conducting classes hold Ph. D. or the highest degree in their discipline.
California State University-San Marcos Application Process
Admission to the California State University is moderately selective. The University had an acceptance rate of 62%. International applicants are required to complete visa procedures for studying in the U.S, submit proof of English language proficiency and fulfill entry requirements.
How to Apply?
International students must fulfill the requirements discussed below for admission:
Application Portal: CalState Application
Application Fee: 70 USD
Application Deadline: The following application deadline must be followed:
| Winter | June 1 – June 30 |
| Spring | August 1 – August 30 |
| Fall | October 1 – December 4 |
Admission Requirements: The documents listed below must be submitted along with the application:
- English proficiency test scores (TOEFL-IBT 61 for undergraduates and 80 for graduates or an IELTS score of 6.0 and above.)
- Average high school GPA of 3.0 or more and are required to submit their academic transcripts during application.
- Scores of tests required to study in the U.S.
- Complete a health evaluation form and provide immunization history.
- Certificate of finances
- Copy of passport
- Students also might need to submit additional documents like a resume, two letters of recommendation for undergraduate courses, and a statement of purpose.
California State University-San Marcos Cost of Attendance
- Prospective applicants willing to take admission to the California State University-San Marcos must prepare an estimate of the costs for studying in the U.S.
- A budget for international students willing to study at the University is as follows:
| Expenditure Item | Undergraduate | Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | 15,246 USD | 16,680 USD |
| Campus Fee | 1,970 USD | 1,970 USD |
| Room | 13,150 USD | 13,150 USD |
| Transportation | 1,094 USD | 1094 USD |
| Books | 1,072 USD | 1,072 USD |
| Personal | 2,058 USD | 2,058 USD |
| Loan Fee | 78 USD | 78 USD |
| Total | 34,668 USD | 38,062 USD |
- Graduates applying for a Business program are required to pay an additional 270 USD per unit.
California State University-San Marcos Scholarships/Financial Aid
- The university provides four types of financial aids - federal, state, private and institutional financial aid. Students can apply based on the eligibility criteria for the specific aid.
- The average amount of financial aid received is 11,197 USD. 90% of the total students who apply receive financial aid from the university.
- Tuition fee waivers are applicable for international students after they complete one year of residence. Waivers are available for the fall semester and applications are collected by May.
- Amount Awarded: Partial waiver of the tuition fee.
- Eligibility Criteria: International undergraduate applicants with an F-1 visa, good academic standing, resided for at least one semester by the time of application, and enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit units.
- #YouAreWelcomeHere is another scholarship opportunity introduced specifically to help international students. It is renewable based on Satisfactory Academic Progress maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Amount Awarded: 50% of non-resident tuition fee
- Eligibility Criteria: This scholarship is awarded to first-year international students who do not hold a U.S. citizenship and have completed high school outside the U.S.
California State University-San Marcos Alumni Network
The university has a 45,000+ member’s strong alumni network. The current alumni association has 2100 active participants. Members are entitled to receive multiple benefits some of which are listed below:
- Opportunities for professional development and networking.
- They also receive a 15% discount on CSUSM Extended learning programs.
- Free access to use the Library across all CSU campuses.
- Discounted insurance, healthcare and renters rates.
Some notable alumni of the university are:
- Shaun White - American Snowboarder
- Rocky Chavez - American Politician
- Mark Hoppus - Musician
California State University-San Marcos Placements
The Office of Recruitment and Outreach is responsible for handling recruitment programs. Prospective students can register and visit high school and community college fairs. Placements are mainly offered to students with majors in Business, Psychology and Social sciences. The University has a 78% job placement rate within six months of graduation. Students can also visit the CSUSM Career Centre in order to receive opportunities regarding internships and jobs in the U.S. after graduation.
FAQs
Ques. Is it hard to get into California State University - San Marcos?
Ans. California State University - San Marcos has a moderately selective admission policy. Academic factors such as high school GPA, academic records, test scores and completion of college preparatory curriculum are taken into consideration during the evaluation process.
Ques. What is the acceptance rate at CSU San Marcos?
Ans. The acceptance rate of CSU San Marcos was 62% in fall.
Ques.What popular majors is CSU San Marcis known for?
Ans. Some of the most popular majors at California State University San Marcos are Business Administration, Psychology, Criminology, Computer Science, Human Development, Biological Sciences, Sociology, Communication, Kinesiology, etc.
Ques.What are the highest enrolled majors at California State University San Marcos?
Ans. Business administration is the highest enrolled major at California State University San Marcos followed by Psychology and Criminology.
Ques. What are the application deadlines for applying to California State University San Marcos?
Ans. International students seeking admission to California State University San Marcos must follow the deadlines given below: Fall - May 1 Spring - November 15 It must be noted that master’s degree programs have different deadlines.
Ques.Is California State University San Marcos accredited?
Ans. Yes. California State University San Marcos is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
Ques. What is the graduation rate at CSU San Marcos?
Ans. The graduation rate of CSU San Marcos is 54%.
Courses & Fees
Compare courses in a cleaner, easier way
Explore tuition, duration, language, eligibility, and exam requirements without the clutter.
Courses
42
Fee from
₹15,56,598.75
Exams
IELTS · TOEFL
Showing 5 of 27 bachelors
Overview
Degree TypeBachelor
Duration4 years
Study ModeFull Time
LanguageEnglish
Fees
Tuition FeeINR 14.3 L/Yr
Native FeeUSD 15,246 /Yr
Fee trendTuition progression
Admission Guide
Admission Process
California State University, San Marcos, is a public entity established in 1989 that offers admissions twice around the year in the seasonal terms of Spring and Fall. The total number of students enrolled at the institute is 13,962. With an acceptance rate of 58%, the renowned university of the US Education System is comeotive in its approach towards admissions.
The institute has a student-faculty ratio of 25:1 and a class of fewer than 20 students. Its most prominent courses include business management, marketing, and linked support programs, family and consumer sciences/humanities; and psychology. The average GPA required when applying for the organization is 3.38 or above. Some other salient points regarding admissions at California State University, San Marcos is as follows:
- The University accepts international applications through the online portal for both graduate and undergraduate programs.
- The University accepts applications on a semester-based academic calendar.
- The University accepts TOEFL and IELTS English Proficiency Tests
- mediums.
- The University also offers an option to live on campus, to those who require accommodation for the academic span.
- Candidates seeking application for Bachelor’s courses may apply with SAT or ACT scores. However, applying via SAT or ACT is not mandatory.
COVID-19 (coronavirus) admission updates
- As announced recently, class's instruction will be conducted virtually this fall.
- Fee Schedule will remain the same for Fall, no reductions made.
- Students can apply to the Student Emergency Fund in case of urgent need of financial support during the pandemic.
- The campus events are cancelled until December or until further notice.
Highlights
| Application platform for international applicants | Application on CSU use and Cal Apply |
| Acceptance Rate | 58% |
| International students percentage | 4.6% |
| Avg. GPA score | 3.0 or higher |
| Financial Aid | Grants, scholarships, student employment, loans |
| Academic calendar | Semester-based Calendar |
| Official Website | https://www.csusm.edu/ |
Admission Deadlines
Students must submit their applications and required documents before the deadlines for admission to be accepted. No late claims will be entertained. The applicants are advised to apply before given deadlines to be considered for admission to range of courses offered by the university for international students:
| Application Type | Admission Deadlines |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Spring: November 15 Fall: May 1 |
| Graduate | Check the specific course page |
International Student Admissions
Students from all over the world are welcome at California State University, San Marcos. All they must have is a student's visa and must fulfill a few requirements for applying to this University.
How to apply?
Application Portal: California State University Online Application Portal or Offline Application
Application Fee: USD 65
- All academic records in the original language must be sent via post.
- Official English translations of all academic records are needed.
- Affidavit of Financial support
- Official TOEFL / IELTS / Cambridge English Score report
- Copy of passport
- Equivalent of B (3.0) grade point equivalent and high school graduate or equivalent of Bachelor's degree with an overall 2.5 GPA or higher.
English Proficiency Test Scores
To demonstrate English competence, international applicants can submit TOEFL, IELTS scores. The University's minimum requirements are shown below. Nonetheless, applicants should remember that there may be specific score criteria for many divisions:
| English Test | Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
| TOEFL | Internet-based: 61 or higher |
| IELTS | Overall band of 5.5 or higher; not below 5.0 in any module |
| Cambridge English B2 First (FCE), C1 Advanced (CAE), C2 Proficiency (CPE) | A score of 168 or higher |
Visa Process for International Students
Applicants may need a visa to study in the USA when applying at California State University, San Marcos. Apply well in advance to ensure that your request is processed in due course. As soon as applicants are admitted to the institute, they must begin to arrange their paperwork to ensure it's all in order in time to arrive.
The following information can be used as a guide to the process of applying for an international F-1 or J-1 visa.
Through the University of California entry, the I-20 document is submitted to F-1 students/visa applicants and DS-2019 students/visa applicants by mail.
The process for a visa is as below-mentioned:
- Students must reach out to the U.S. Embassy or consulate to schedule a visa interview.
- Paying the SEVIS Fee will be the second step
- Completing DS-160 shall follow
- A visa application fee as applicable by U.S consulate
- Get the documents prepared for the visa interview; namely,
- A Passport
- Form I-20 and DS-2019 documents
- Admission Letter from the college/university
- Confirmation of DS-160 form
- Receipts of SEVIS fee and visa application fee
- Proof showing financial support to students
- Academic transcripts, degrees, and scorecards from previous studies
California State University, San Marcos: Undergraduate Admissions
Various undergraduate programs are offered at California State University, San Marcos. All California State University, San Marcos Bachelor programs have a typical admission process and criteria, which is as mentioned below.
Where to Apply: California State University Online Application Portal
Application Fee: USD 65
Admission Requirements
Applicants must fulfill the following prerequisites at the time of admission:
- An application either online or manual paper application.
- The application fee is automatically waived if applied manually
- All official academic records including transcripts, examination results, degrees or diplomas in the original language through the postal mail in a school-sealed envelope along with its English translation.
- Grade B or 3.0 or equivalent
- 75th percentile students had 1140 in SAT and 66 in ACT
California State University, San Marcos: Graduate Admissions
The institute offers more than 15 master courses in addition to various certificate programs to all local and international applicants. The necessary admission process for all the courses is the same. However, most courses and study programs have different entry requirements.
Admission Requirements
- The equivalent of a Bachelor's degree
- Overall GPA 2.5 or higher
- English Language proficiency test score
- Some programs may require GRE or GMAT scores.
Based on course-specific data, the entry requirements for these programs are as mentioned below:
| Course Title | Degree | English Requirement | Application Deadline | Entry Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration | FEMBA | TOEFL: 80 or higher; IELTS: Overall 6.0 or higher |
Not mentioned | Bachelor's Degree; GPA 3.0 or better; 3 years of professional experience; Total GMAT score of 500 or higher |
| Computer Science | M.S. | IELTS and TOEFL scores (exact scores not mentioned) | Domestic students: June 15; International students in the U.S.: June 1; International students outside the U.S.: May 1 |
Complete application via CSU Apply; Official certificates and transcripts in original language and English translation; Affidavit of Financial Support; A copy of Passport |
| History | M.A. | TOEFL score: 500 or higher | Spring: October 30; Fall: March 15 |
Admission to graduate school; GPA of 3.0; Two sets of official transcripts; 3 letters of recommendation; A 700-word statement of intent; One formal academic writing sample |
| Mathematics | M.S. | Not mentioned | Fall: Domestic June 30; International May 1; Spring: October 31 |
Application via Cal Apply; All official transcripts and certificates; Grade B or higher in MATH; Algebra and an additional senior-level proof-based mathematics course; GPA of 2.5 or higher |
| Nursing | MSN | TOEFL: 80 or higher; IELTS: 6.0 band or higher; Cambridge English: 180 or higher | To be announced | Application via CSU Apply; Personal Statement of intent; CV/Resume; Letter of recommendation; All official transcripts |
With the diverse variety of courses provided by the university, the competition among applicants seeking to study in the USA is high. Since SAT/ACT scores are not mandatory, GPA or grade may be of more importance. Applicants should contact the authorities to get clear information for that academic year. The high acceptance rate only states that the admission procedure is competitive for students.
FAQs
Ques. What is the cost of attendance for studying at California State University, San Marcos?
Ans. The cost of attendance at California State University, San Marcos for Undergraduate Residents is approximately USD 21,850 living with relatives; USD 24,070 living on-campus and USD 29,264 living off-campus. The cost of attendance for Graduate Residents is approximately USD 23,284 living with relatives; USD 26,598 living on-campus and USD 30,698 living off-campus.
Ques. Is Work-Study an option while studying at California State University, San Marcos?
Ans. Yes, the Federal work-study program at California State University, San Marcos is designed for part-time employment to help your living costs while studying.
Ques. What is the GPA requirement for international applicants at California State University, San Marcos?
Ans. Minimum GPA requirement at California State University, San Marcos is 3.0 to 3.18 or higher on a scale of 4.0
Ques. What is the procedure for admitted students on arriving at California State University, San Marcos?
Ans. Admitted students at California State University, San Marcos must submit their enrolment deposit and intent to enroll, apply for scholarships, apply for student housing, sign up for orientation class, submit final transcripts (if not submitted already), pay the remaining fees, purchase parking ticket and that's all.
Ques. Is on-campus accommodation available at California State University, San Marcos?
Ans. Yes, on-campus housing is available at Cal State San Marcos.
Ques. How can students check their application status at California State University, San Marcos?
Ans. Students at California State University, San Marcos can check their status regularly on MyCSUSM. They will be given a password to their accounts.
Placements & Recruiters
California State University-San Marcos Placement Details
California State University-San Marcos in San Marcos, 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 San Marcos, California, United States.
Recruiters
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Salary Metrics
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Placement Metric
Average Package
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Shows the typical package range students may expect based on the available average salary data.
Placement information is currently limited.
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Rankings over the years
Year-wise highlights from global and country rankings available for this university.
2025
Highlights
2025
2025
- Public Health: #21 in country
- Top source: US News
- 1 ranked streams
- Focus areas: Public Health
- 1 ranking record in 2025
Contact Information
333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Rd. San Marcos CA, 92096
+1-760-750-4000