
1250 Bellflower Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90840, USA


California State University-Long Beach holds accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), an agency recognized for evaluating institutions that grant bachelor's degrees and higher. This regional accreditation ensures the university meets rigorous standards of quality and integrity regarding its educational programs, faculty qualifications, and student support services. Prospective students can take this accreditation as a reliable indicator that their degrees from the university will be recognized by employers and other educational institutions.
California State University-Long Beach requires applicants to have completed secondary school with a General Educational Development (GED) if high school completion is not applicable. A secondary school GPA and the official secondary school record must be submitted as part of the application. While class rank is recommended, it is not mandatory. Admission to a college-level program is required for all prospective students.
The university also mandates proof of proficiency in English, specifically requiring TOEFL scores. Other standardized test scores are recommended but not compulsory. Recommendations and demonstration of competencies are suggested to strengthen the application, although they are not strictly required.
California State University-Long Beach follows a selective admission policy and does not offer open admission. Dual credit is not accepted, but credit for Advanced Placement (AP) courses is granted. The institution shows a strong focus on admitting local residents.
The competitiveness of admission is indicated by a high volume of applications, with 79,680 applicants and an acceptance rate of 47%, reflecting a relatively low admission rate compared to many other institutions. Of those admitted, approximately 5,756 students enroll, indicating a substantial level of selectivity in the enrollment process.
California State University-Long Beach charges an application fee to prospective undergraduate students. This fee is a necessary part of the submission process and helps cover administrative costs associated with reviewing applications. However, the university provides fee waivers to certain applicants who demonstrate financial need, easing the burden for those who might otherwise be unable to afford the cost. These waivers are typically available for qualifying students under specific eligibility criteria, which may include factors such as participation in government assistance programs or economic hardship. Prospective students interested in fee waivers should consult the admissions office for details on how to apply and the documentation required to support their request.
California State University-Long Beach offers Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) opportunities on its campus. Prospective students interested in pursuing ROTC programs can participate directly at the university through its on-campus ROTC branch units. This structure allows students to engage in military training and leadership development without needing to attend a separate host institution.
California State University-Long Beach accepts transfer applications for the fall and spring terms, providing opportunities for students to continue their education without waiting an entire academic year. The university welcomes transfer credits and acknowledges standardized examinations such as the CLEP subject tests and DANTES exams, making it easier for students to convert prior learning into academic credit. Additionally, recommendations from transfer applicants are considered during the admissions process, which may benefit candidates in presenting a comprehensive application profile.
California State University-Long Beach offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enrich the academic and cultural experience of its students. These programs include faculty-led short-term excursions, semester-long exchanges, and summer study abroad options that allow participants to immerse themselves in different educational systems and cultures worldwide. Students may choose programs that align with their academic goals, often including language immersion, cultural studies, or specialized courses tied to their major.
The university collaborates with partner institutions internationally, facilitating exchanges that enable students to study abroad while earning credits that count toward their degree. Faculty-led programs typically occur during summer or winter sessions, lasting several weeks and focusing on targeted academic or cultural themes. These shorter programs provide a more accessible option for students with tighter schedules or financial limitations.
CSU-Long Beach also supports internship opportunities abroad, which combine practical work experience with cultural exposure, broadening students' professional and personal perspectives. Additionally, language programs are available in countries where students can enhance proficiency through immersion, often paired with homestays or community engagement.
Advising services are provided to help students choose programs that best fit their educational plans and to navigate logistics such as financial aid, visas, and travel arrangements. The university emphasizes the importance of global competence and encourages students from any major to participate, highlighting the value of cross-cultural understanding in today's interconnected world.
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.)
RecommendedPreferential admissions consideration text
local residentsOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
Data not availableOff-campus study
Data not availableROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy 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
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring