
9001 Stockdale Highway, Bakersfield, CA 93311, USA


California State University-Bakersfield holds accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), a regional accrediting agency recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. This accreditation assures that the institution meets established standards for quality and effectiveness in higher education.
The university's various academic programs also benefit from accreditation or approval by relevant specialized agencies, ensuring that specific fields of study adhere to industry and professional standards. Prospective students can be confident that their degrees will be recognized by employers and other institutions due to the university's accredited status.
California State University-Bakersfield requires applicants to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) or equivalent, alongside a secondary school record and a minimum grade point average. While a specific high school rank is recommended, it is not mandatory for admission. Prospective students must have completed a college preparatory program and fulfill English proficiency requirements through the TOEFL exam.
Recommendations and standardized test scores such as the ACT, SAT, or other assessments are advised but not strictly required. The university does not operate an open admission policy, indicating a selective admissions process.
Applicants may also receive credit for dual enrollment or Advanced Placement (AP) coursework, although dual credit is not generally accepted. The acceptance rate at California State University-Bakersfield is relatively high at approximately 88%, reflecting a selective but accessible admissions climate.
Regarding test score distributions, about 6% of students submitted SAT scores, while approximately 1% submitted ACT scores. ACT score ranges show that most admitted students scored between 17 and 29, with smaller percentages falling below 17 or above 29.
The application fee at California State University-Bakersfield is set to cover the administrative costs associated with processing prospective students' applications. This fee is required for all applicants submitting their materials to the university. However, individuals facing financial hardship may be eligible to apply for a waiver to reduce or eliminate this cost.
Fee waivers are provided based on specific eligibility criteria designed to support students who demonstrate financial need or other qualifying circumstances. Prospective students should review the university's policies and submit the necessary documentation to request a waiver. This process helps ensure that the application fee does not become a barrier for those wishing to attend the university.
California State University-Bakersfield does not offer its own Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs on campus. Prospective students interested in pursuing ROTC training typically participate through cross-enrollment agreements with nearby institutions that have established Army, Navy, or Air Force ROTC units. This arrangement allows students to complete their ROTC requirements while attending California State University-Bakersfield.
Students engaged in ROTC programs via these partnerships receive military leadership training alongside their academic coursework. The absence of an on-campus ROTC detachment means students must commute or coordinate their schedules with the host university. Nevertheless, this pathway provides a viable option for those committed to commissioning as officers without relocating.
California State University-Bakersfield welcomes transfer students during the fall and spring terms, providing flexibility for those planning their academic progression. The university accepts transfer credits, helping students continue their education without starting over.
Applicants can transfer credits earned through CLEP exams, including both subject-specific and general exams, as well as those earned from DANTES testing. Moreover, the university considers recommendation letters as part of the transfer application process, potentially strengthening an applicant's profile.
California State University-Bakersfield offers various study abroad opportunities designed to enhance students' global perspectives and academic experience. The university provides semester-long and short-term programs that allow students to study in diverse international locations while earning credit toward their degrees.
Students can participate in faculty-led group travel programs that are integrated with specific courses, enabling immersive learning experiences in different countries. These programs emphasize cultural exposure alongside academic content, often including site visits, local interactions, and practical applications of classroom learning.
Additionally, the university supports independent study abroad options where students can arrange their own international study plans in coordination with academic advisors. This flexibility allows students to tailor their experiences according to their individual academic and personal goals while maintaining progress toward their degree requirements.
California State University-Bakersfield also collaborates with partner institutions abroad, providing exchange opportunities that broaden options in terms of location and discipline. These partnerships facilitate cross-cultural academic exchanges and often feature supportive structures such as orientation, advising, and credit transfer assistance.
Overall, the university's study abroad programs cater to a range of interests and timelines, enabling students to gain valuable intercultural competence and global awareness as part of their educational journey.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
1%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
6%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
Data not availableComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
Data not availableSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
RecommendedTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
Data not availableDisabilities services
Data not availableOff-campus study
Data not availableStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
NoPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring