California State University Sacramento: Rankings, Popular Courses, Fees, Admission 2026-27 & Scholarships
Sacramento, United States
California State University, Sacramento
Overview
California State University, Sacramento is a public university established in 1947 in Sacramento, California, and is part of the California State University (CSU) system, which has 26 other campuses across the state of California. The university has a rich and diverse academic community composed of close to 31,000 students, with about 14,000 international students. The University of Sacramento State has a wide access mission as the acceptance rate is high (94%).
In the field, Sacramento State has a wide variety of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral courses in various colleges, such as Arts and Letters, Business Administration, Education, Engineering and Computer Science, Health and Human Services, Natural Sciences and Mathematics, and Social Sciences and Interdisciplinary Studies. Famous majors are Nursing, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Biological Sciences, Accounting, Business Administration, and Engineer. The average tuition fees are normally around $1,764 to $7812 in regard to the level of programs and the unit load.
California State University, Sacramento, is subject to an open procedure of admission into undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral studies. Undergraduate applications are test-blind (no SAT/ACT required), but GRE or GMAT may be required by some graduate and MBA programs. Foreign students are required to prove their skills in English by passing tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo, and the criteria differ depending on the level of the program.
Sacramento State appears in global and subject-based lists in terms of rankings. It has also been ranked in Global Universities according to U.S. News & World Report. Even ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) has ranked Sacramento State in the Physics discipline (401 range).
California State University, Sacramento: Quick Highlights
California State University, Sacramento, offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in multiple disciplines. Check the statistical data from the table below.
Particulars | Details |
Established | 1947 |
Located at | Sacramento, California |
Type | Pubic |
Popular Majors | Nursing, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Biological Sciences, Accounting, Business Administration, and Engineering |
Average Fees | $1,764 - $7,812 |
Total Students | nearly 31,000 students |
Total International Students | nearly 14,000 |
Acceptance Rate | 94% |
California State University, Sacramento: Accreditations
California State University, Sacramento has been accredited by many recognised bodies such as the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), the California State University (CSU) System, and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
- WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
The primary regional accrediting body granting institutional accreditation to Sacramento State. - The California State University (CSU) System
Sacramento State operates under the CSU system, which maintains system-wide academic and quality standards. - Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
Provides internationally recognised accreditation for the College of Business Administration.
California State University, Sacramento: Rankings
California State University, Sacramento has been ranked globally among the best universities by US News & World Report and ARWU.
US News & World Report Ranking 2026
Here are the rankings for 2026 and the last 2 years, given by US News.
Particulars | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
Global Universities | 1228 | 1279 | – |
Best Graduate Nursing Schools | 114 | – | – |
UG Business | 211 | 222 | 254 |
ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) Ranking 2025
Here are the rankings for the last 2 years given by ARWU (Shanghai Ranking).
Particulars | 2023 | 2025 |
Physics | 401 | 401 |
California State University, Sacramento
Programs
California State University, Sacramento offers courses in different departments & colleges such as Arts & Letters, Business Administration, Continuing Education, Engineering & Computer Science, Health & Human Services, Natural Sciences & Mathematics, and Social Sciences & Interdisciplinary Studies.
College | Departments / Schools |
Arts & Letters | Art; Design; History; Music; Theatre & Dance; Communication Studies; English; Humanities & Religious Studies; Philosophy; World Languages & Literatures |
Business Administration | Undergraduate Programs; Graduate Programs; Institutes & Centers |
Continuing Education | Continuing Education Programs |
Education | Undergraduate Studies; Teaching Credentials; Graduate and Professional Studies; Educational Leadership Doctorate |
Engineering & Computer Science | Civil Engineering; Computer Engineering; Computer Science; Construction Management; Electrical and Electronic Engineering; Mechanical Engineering |
Health & Human Services | Communication Sciences & Disorders; Criminal Justice; Health Science; Kinesiology; Nursing; Physical Therapy; Public Health; Recreation, Parks & Tourism |
Natural Sciences & Mathematics | Biological Sciences; Chemistry; Geography; Geology; Mathematics and Statistics; Physics & Astronomy |
Social Sciences & Interdisciplinary Studies | Anthropology; Economics; Ethnic Studies; Gerontology; Nutrition, Food & Dietetics; Psychology; Social Science; Women’s & Gender Studies; Asian Studies; Environmental Studies; Family & Consumer Sciences; Liberal Studies; Political Science; Public Policy & Administration; Sociology |
California State University, Sacramento: Undergraduate Course Details
Here is the fee breakdown for the undergrads; it may vary depending on the particular course.
Particulars | Up to 6 Units | More than 6 Units |
Tuition Fees | $1,764 | $3,042 |
Associated Students Inc. Fee | $89.00 | $89.00 |
Intercollegiate Athletics/Spirit Leaders Fee | $181.00 | $181.00 |
Transportation Fee | $27.00 | $27.00 |
Recreational Sports Fee | $19.00 | $19.00 |
University Union/ WELL Fee | $459.00 | $459.00 |
Health Facilities Fee | $29.00 | $29.00 |
Instructional Related Activity Fee | $8.00 | $8.00 |
Student Health and Counselling Services Fee | $152.00 | $152.00 |
Hornet Newspaper Fee | $3.00 | $3.00 |
Total | $2,731.00 | $4,009.00 |
California State University, Sacramento: Credential Program Details
Fee breakdown for credential programs as per units. Check all the fee details from the table below.
Particulars | Upto 6 Units | More than 6 Units |
Tuition Fees | $2,049 | $3,531 |
Associated Students Inc. Fee | $89.00 | $89.00 |
Intercollegiate Athletics/Spirit Leaders Fee | $181.00 | $181.00 |
Transportation Fee | $27.00 | $27.00 |
Recreational Sports Fee | $19.00 | $19.00 |
University Union/WELL Fee | $459.00 | $459.00 |
Health Facilities Fee | $29.00 | $29.00 |
Instructional Related Activity Fee | $8.00 | $8.00 |
Student Health and Counselling Services Fee | $152.00 | $152.00 |
Hornet Newspaper Fee | $3.00 | $3.00 |
Total | $3,016.00 | $4,498.00 |
California State University, Sacramento: Post-Baccalaureate Course Details
Fee breakdown for Post-Baccalaureate courses is mentioned below.
Particulars | Up to 6 Units | More than 6 Units |
Tuition Fees | $2,208 | $3,804 |
Associated Students Inc. Fee | $89.00 | $89.00 |
Intercollegiate Athletics/Spirit Leaders Fee | $181.00 | $181.00 |
Transportation Fee | $27.00 | $27.00 |
Recreational Sports Fee | $19.00 | $19.00 |
University Union Fee | $459.00 | $459.00 |
Health Facilities Fee | $29.00 | $29.00 |
Instructional Related Activity Fee | $8.00 | $8.00 |
Student Health and Counselling Services Fee | $152.00 | $152.00 |
Hornet Newspaper Fee | $3.00 | $3.00 |
Total | $3,175.00 | $4,771.00 |
California State University, Sacramento: Education Doctorate Course Details
For the doctorate courses detailed fee breakdown is mentioned below.
Particulars | Up to 21 Units |
Tuition Fees | $6,273 |
Associated Students Inc. Fee | $89.00 |
Intercollegiate Athletics/Spirit Leaders Fee | $181.00 |
Transportation Fee | $27.00 |
Recreational Sports Fee | $19.00 |
University Union/WELL Fee | $459.00 |
Health Facilities Fee | $29.00 |
Instructional Related Activity Fee | $8.00 |
Student Health and Counseling Services Fee | $152.00 |
Hornet Newspaper Fee | $3.00 |
Total | $7,240 |
Popular Courses offered at California State University, Sacramento are mentioned below with the tuition and hostel fee details.
Course | Tuition | Hostel |
MS | ₹12.6 Lakh - ₹27.7 Lakh | ₹14.58 L - ₹15.03 Lakh |
MBA/PGDM | ₹12.6 L - ₹28.11 Lakh | ₹14.58 L - ₹15.03 Lakh |
M.A. | ₹12.6 L - ₹17.2 Lakh | ₹14.58 L - ₹15.03 Lakh |
MPH | ₹12.32 Lakh | ₹15.03 Lakh |
LL.M. | ₹15.11 Lakh | ₹15.03 Lakh |
MFA | ₹19.98 Lakh | ₹15.03 L |
MSN | ₹16.2 Lakh | ₹14.58 Lakh |
B.Sc. | ₹15.9 L - ₹18.61 Lakh | ₹10.86 L akh- ₹14.69 Lakh |
B.E. / B.Tech | ₹15.9 Lakh - ₹18.64 Lakh | ₹10.86 Lakh - ₹14.69 Lakh |
BBA | ₹15.9 Lakh- ₹26.32 Lakh | ₹10.64 L - ₹14.69 L |
B.A. | ₹15.9 Lakh- ₹18.61 Lakh | ₹10.86 L - ₹14.69 L |
B.J.M.C. | ₹17.58 Lakh - ₹18.61 Lakh | ₹11.47 Lakh - ₹14.69 Lakh |
MBBS
California State University, Sacramento
Admissions
Freshman Admission Requirements
Eligibility criteria for freshman admission or Admission for the first year of high school. Check the details mentioned carefully.
Particulars | Details |
High School Completion | Diploma, GED, or CHSPE |
a-g Course Pattern | 15 units completed with C- or better |
California Residents GPA | Minimum 2.50 |
CA GPA 2.00–2.49 | Considered with supplemental factors |
Non-CA Residents GPA | Minimum 3.00 |
SAT/ACT | Not used for admission eligibility (placement only) |
Required a-g Subject Pattern
The required a-g subject pattern for freshman admission basically means high school courses or subjects required for admission. Check the table below.
Subject Area | Years Required |
Social Science | 2 |
English | 4 |
Mathematics | 3 (4 recommended) |
Laboratory Science | 2 |
Foreign Language | 2 |
Visual & Performing Arts | 1 |
Electives | 1 |
Total | 15 Units |
General Undergraduate Admission Requirements
Here is the list of General Undergraduate Admission Requirements to get admission in California State University, Sacramento.
Requirement Category | Details |
Application | Submit online via Cal State Apply; $70 non-refundable fee. |
Transcripts | Must provide official transcripts from all previous schools. |
Complete & Accurate Info | Applicants must supply accurate information or risk denial. |
Impacted Programs | Some majors require supplementary criteria if they are impacted. |
English Proficiency (for non-native speakers) | TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo scores accepted (minimums vary). |
English Language Proficiency
California State University, Sacramento accepts TOEFL (internet), TOEFL (paper), IELTS, PTE Academic, and Duolingo for the English Language Proficiency.
Test | Undergraduate Minimum |
TOEFL (internet) | 64 |
TOEFL (paper) | 510 |
IELTS | 6.0 overall |
PTE Academic | 50 |
Duolingo | 95 |
California State University, Sacramento: Admission Process
Steps in the Application Process – Sacramento State
- Submit the Application
Personal information: Applicants are required to make an online application within the official CSU application filing period of the desired term. Applications that are submitted within the filing period are only counted.
- Preliminary Filing Period Review
Every application received in the first filing round receives equal treatment in fixed enrollment categories and quotas.
- Supplementary Review (Where Necessary)
In case the campus or certain programs are still determined as being affected, there can be extra criteria for the selection of applicants when the applications is more than the capacity available.
- Prolonged Filing Period (Provided Space is left out)
In case the enrollment categories are not met during the initial filing period, the university can still accept more applications during an extended period. Resumes are processed on a first-come first-served basis.
- Application Acknowledgment
When applicants are on time, they are normally acknowledged through email between two to four weeks. The university can demand new records that are required to assess academic qualifications.
- Submission of Documents
All applicants should file all the necessary official transcripts and test scores (where necessary) within the relevant filing time. Unfinished applications can slow down or block admission.
- Admission Evaluation
Applications are reviewed according to CSU admission criteria as well as impacted program additional criteria (where applicable).
- Decision on Notification of Admission.
Admission or ineligibility confirmation of the applicants start in March (fall) and September (spring), as long as all documents are received within the requested time.
- Post-Admission Information
The admissions are communicated through email to the students upon their admission to the school on issues of registration, placement testing, academic advising and orientation before they are enrolled.
- Requests and Distress Reprieve (Should Be)
The qualified applicants in extreme hardship can file a hardship petition. The applicants who are not admitted can appeal once in a term, on the basis of the posted appeal procedures and within 15 business days of the publication.
Application Timelines
Applications are accepted in two intakes, the fall semester and the spring semester, between October 1 to November 30 and August 1 to August 31, respectively.
Term | Applications First Accepted | Initial Filing Period |
Fall Semester | October 1 | October 1 – November 30 |
Spring Semester | August 1 | August 1 – August 31 |
California State University, Sacramento
Campuses
There are a total of 26 campuses of California State University around the globe. Check the campus that is suitable for you.
- California State University, Bakersfield
- California State University Channel Islands
- California State University, Chico
- California State University, Dominguez Hills
- California State University, East Bay
- California State University, Fresno
- California State University, Fullerton
- California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt
- California State University, Long Beach
- California State University, Los Angeles
- California State University, Monterey Bay
- California State University, Northridge
- California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
- California State University, Sacramento
- California State University, San Bernardino
- San Diego State University
- San Francisco State University
- San José State University
- California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
- California State University San Marcos
- Sonoma State University
- California State University, Stanislaus
- California Maritime Academy
California State University, Sacramento
Scholarships
Sacramento State has numerous scholarships, which include departmental scholarships and alumni and community-based scholarships that offer financial aid for tuition, research, living costs, and academic excellence; the amounts of the scholarships differ depending on the scholarship and the requirements.
Scholarship Name | Approx. Award Amount |
Alumni Association Scholarships | Awarded to freshmen, continuing undergraduates, and graduates. Amount - $3,500 each (about 12 awards annually) |
Academic & Creative Excellence Award | For outstanding art majors. Amount - $1,000 |
Jeannette B. Yuppa Scholarship | For art majors with teaching goals. Amount - $1,000 |
Marla Chicconi Memorial Art Scholarship | For undergraduate art students. Amount - $1,500 |
Juanita & Jose Montoya Memorial Art Scholarship | For junior/senior art majors. Amount - $1,500 |
Peggy Saunders Hall Memorial Scholarship | For undergraduate art students. Amount - $5,000 |
Peter H. Shattuck Undergraduate Scholarship | History undergraduate scholarship Amount - $7,000 (two awards) |
Professor Thomas Swift History Scholarship | For history majors. Amount - $3,000 |
Department of History Undergraduate Scholarship | History department award Amount - $2,000 |
George & Eleanor Craft Graduate Scholarship | For classified history graduate students. Amount - $2,000 each |
Mildred “Millie” Kahane Nursing Leadership Scholarship | Graduate nursing scholarship Amount - $5,000 |
Phyllis Marie Nevis Memorial Scholarship | Nursing scholarship Amount - $2,500 minimum |
Carol J. Maxwell Scholarship | Nursing student award Amount - $1,000+ |
Clay Abajian Memorial Scholarship | Nursing scholarship Amount - $2,000 minimum |
Valerie Blackburn Memorial Scholarship | Nursing scholarship Amount -$2,000 |
Michael P. O’Brien Memorial Scholarship | Nursing scholarship Amount -$500–$3,000 |
Stephanie Cotter Memorial Scholarship | Nursing scholarship Amount -$400 minimum |
California State University, Sacramento
Infrastructure
Full-service facilities are provided, such as contemporary housing, varied food, daycare, health and wellness, library services, career development, tutoring, and access to technology.
Facility / Infrastructure | Description / Key Features |
University Housing – North Village | 2,100 residents; 7 residence halls; furnished rooms; Wi-Fi; lounges; recreation rooms; pool & courts near American River trails. |
University Housing – Hornet Commons | Pet-friendly apartments; resort-style pool; fitness centre; study lounges; full kitchens & washers/dryers. |
Campus Dining Services | Multiple dining locations (Union, River Front Center, Hornet Commons); diverse food options, including vegan/vegetarian. |
Children’s Center (Child Care) | Accredited childcare for ages 6 months–kindergarten; student work and internship site. |
Student Health, Counselling & Wellness Services (SHCWS) | Integrated health care, mental health counselling, labs, immunisations, and peer support. |
University Library | 1.6 million books/E-books; databases; media collections; study rooms & equipment loans. |
Career Center | Career counselling, resume support, job/internship resources & fairs. |
University Reading & Writing Center | Tutoring support for reading, writing, and editing at all levels. |
Information Resources & Technology (IRT) | Tech support, virtual labs, project rooms, and online resources. |

