Research.com
California State University-Chico logo

California State University-Chico

400 W. First St, Chico, CA 95929-0722, USA

California State University-Chico award
California State University-Chico award
US ranking
position: 101
Tuition & fees per year: $8,896
Acceptance rate: 94.00%
Median alumni salary: $42,772
Avg. SAT and ACT: N/A
Entrance difficulty: Moderate

What is the accreditation of California State University-Chico?

California State University-Chico is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), which serves as the regional accrediting body responsible for evaluating postsecondary institutions in California. This accreditation confirms that the university meets established standards of quality and effectiveness in its educational offerings.

What are the admission requirements at California State University-Chico?

California State University-Chico requires applicants to have completed either a General Educational Development (GED) or an equivalent secondary education program. A solid secondary school academic record is mandatory, and submission of the secondary school GPA is required, while class rank is recommended but not compulsory. Candidates must have completed a college preparatory program prior to applying.

Standardized test scores such as the SAT and ACT are recommended but not mandatory for admission. However, the university mandates TOEFL scores for applicants whose native language is not English to demonstrate language proficiency.

Recommendation letters and evidence of competencies are suggested to strengthen the application, although they are not required. Dual credit is not accepted, but previous college credit and Advanced Placement credits may be recognized toward degree requirements.

The university does not practice open admission, maintaining a selective enrollment process. Computer ownership is not compulsory for applicants, but leasing options are available.

Applicants to California State University-Chico face a very high admission rate, approximately 94%, placing the university in the top 20% for acceptance rates. Of the more than 22,000 applicants annually, over 20,000 are admitted, with around 2,171 enrolling each year. Female applicants represent a higher proportion of both applications and enrollments compared to males.

What are the application fees and waivers at California State University-Chico?

The application fee for undergraduate admission to California State University-Chico is set at $70 for both in-state and out-of-state applicants. Graduate applicants have a higher application fee, which is currently $70 as well. The fee covers the cost of processing the application and is non-refundable.

California State University-Chico offers fee waivers for eligible students who demonstrate financial need. These waivers are typically available to applicants participating in specific programs, such as those who qualify under the California College Fee Waiver Program or who meet criteria indicating economic hardship. Prospective students should inquire about eligibility requirements and the application process for fee waivers through the university's admissions office or official website to ensure they can take advantage of this support if eligible.

What types of ROTC programs are available at California State University-Chico?

California State University-Chico offers students access to an ROTC branch unit on campus. This presence allows prospective military officers to pursue their training and education while enrolled at the university. The availability of this ROTC unit supports students interested in developing leadership skills and preparing for service in the armed forces during their academic career.

What are the requirements for transfer students at California State University-Chico?

California State University-Chico welcomes transfer students for the fall and spring semesters, offering opportunities to continue their education seamlessly. The university maintains a moderately difficult admission standard for transfers, reflecting a balanced selection process.

Transfer applicants can benefit from the acceptance of various credit types. This includes general and subject-specific CLEP credits as well as DANTES credits, which can facilitate the recognition of prior learning and help reduce the time needed to complete a degree. Additionally, the university considers recommendation letters as part of its transfer admissions process.

What types of study abroad programs are available at California State University-Chico?

California State University-Chico offers a variety of study abroad programs designed to enrich students' academic and cultural experiences. The university facilitates semester-long and summer programs in several countries, allowing students to immerse themselves in different cultures while earning credits toward their degrees. Options typically include partnerships with universities across Europe, Asia, and Latin America, supporting a wide range of academic disciplines.

Additionally, there are faculty-led programs that focus on specific subjects or themes, providing a guided study abroad experience with direct support from Chico State professors. These programs often combine classroom learning with fieldwork or cultural excursions, enhancing practical understanding alongside academic coursework.

Beyond traditional exchange and faculty-led options, California State University-Chico also supports internship opportunities abroad and service-learning programs. These offerings provide students with hands-on international work experience, which can complement their career goals and personal development.

The university's study abroad office assists students throughout the process, from choosing the right program to managing applications, financial aid, and travel logistics, ensuring accessibility and a well-supported global education experience.

California State University-Chico Admissions Factors

Avg. SAT score N/A
SAT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students
Avg. ACT score N/A
ACT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students.
Acceptance rate 94%

ACT scores of enrolled students

ACT in range 18-23
ACT in range 24-29

California State University-Chico Admissions

Applicants Total: 22,263
Admission Total: 20,864
Enrolled Total: 2,171
Women
Men

California State University-Chico Admission Requirements

Percent of students submitting ACT scores

0.5%

Percent of students submitting SAT scores

2%

High school completions

General Educational Development (GED) required

Computer required

No

Computer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution

Yes

Secondary school GPA

Required

Secondary school rank

Recommended

Secondary school record

Required

Completion of college-preparatory program

Required

Recommendations

Recommended

Formal demonstration of competencies

Recommended

Admission test scores

Recommended

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language

Required

Other Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)

Recommended

Open admission policy

No

Dual credit

No

Credit for life experiences

Yes

Advanced placement (AP) credits

Yes

Special learning opportunities

Orientation program

Yes

Disabilities services

Yes

Off-campus study

Yes

ROTC-Army

ROTC branch unit on campus

ROTC-Navy

ROTC branch unit on campus

ROTC-Air Force

ROTC branch unit on campus

Study abroad

Yes

Weekend/evening college

Yes

Student can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization

No

Preparation at another institution required

No

Approved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher

Yes

California State University-Chico Transfer Acceptance Rate

Entrance difficulty for transfer students

Moderate

Generally accepts credits

Yes

Accept ACE recommendation for credit

Yes

Possible transfer

Fall, Spring