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


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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
0.5%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
2%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary 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
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent 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
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring