Admissions

A student and Willie the Wildcat pose together for a selfie in front of campus entrance.

We’re regularly named among U.S. News & World Report’s Top Public Universities in the West. Our historic campus is within walking and biking distance of Chico’s charming, tree-lined downtown. Our graduates go on to become leaders in their careers and communities. But there’s still one thing missing: You.

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Connect with Admissions

Call us. Email us. Live chat with us. However you get in touch, we want to hear from you. We’ll connect you with an admission expert who can answer your questions during office hours. (And if you call during business hours, we guarantee a live person on the other end—no automated voice messages.)

Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

How to Apply

All student types will complete their application to Chico State online through Cal State Apply. As long as you meet certain GPA and other requirements, you’re eligible!

Student working on their laptop.

First-Time in College Applicants

Application process for high school students or high school grads without college coursework beyond the summer after graduation.

<a href=View of Kendall Hall as seen from the front" />

Transfer Applicants

Application process for students transferring from a community college or four-year college

Student sitting at laptop smiling and looking into the distance.

Graduate and Credential Applicants

Application process for students seeking a master’s degree or credential (Seeking a second undergrad degree? Visit the Second Bachelor’s page.)

Three people smiling in front of a brick wall

International Applicants

Application process for students at any level who require an F or J visa to study in the US

View of trinity hall in the sunset

Online Applicants

Application process for anyone planning to pursue a fully online program

Prospective student holding a sign that reads

Returning Student Applicants

Application process for students returning to Chico State to complete their bachelor’s degree

Student smiling at home while working on a computer.

Cost and Aid

Nearly two-thirds of Chico State students receive some kind of financial aid, including an average of over $10k a year in grants and scholarships (free money!). That brings an already-accessible education even closer.

Student smiling at home while working on a computer.

New student smiling as they move into the Chico State Dormitories.

Campus Housing

Six residence halls. One apartment building. Over 2,000 beds. And all within walking distance to class, the fitness center, dining halls, and also historic downtown Chico. Living on campus is tough to beat.

New student smiling as they move into the Chico State Dormitories.

Group of students going on a walking field trip on the Chico State campus

Campus Visits and Events

Whether you’re interested in our Wildcat Preview open house in the fall, our Choose Chico admitted students day in the spring, or another campus tour any time of the year, we can't wait to show you in person what makes Chico so great.

Group of students going on a walking field trip on the Chico State campus

Big Things Ahead

A college education is a big investment. And at Chico State, you don’t have to wonder whether it’s worth it. Our graduates consistently find jobs that deliver returns far greater than the money they’ve invested in tuition.

for returns on investment among 2,000 US colleges

Combine Chico State’s affordability with the earnings power that comes with a degree, and you get big-time ROI.

among US colleges on the Social Mobility Index

Be the first in your family to go to college, but not the last. Chico State is a leader in ensuring access for all to the transformative power of higher education.

lowest student loan debt in California

Chico State graduates leave college with a diploma, not crushing bills, with some of the lowest debt amounts in the country.

for returns on investment among 2,000 US colleges

Combine Chico State’s affordability with the earnings power that comes with a degree, and you get big-time ROI.

among US colleges on the Social Mobility Index

Be the first in your family to go to college, but not the last. Chico State is a leader in ensuring access for all to the transformative power of higher education.

lowest student loan debt in California

Chico State graduates leave college with a diploma, not crushing bills, with some of the lowest debt amounts in the country.

for returns on investment among 2,000 US colleges

Combine Chico State’s affordability with the earnings power that comes with a degree, and you get big-time ROI.

among US colleges on the Social Mobility Index

Be the first in your family to go to college, but not the last. Chico State is a leader in ensuring access for all to the transformative power of higher education.

lowest student loan debt in California

Chico State graduates leave college with a diploma, not crushing bills, with some of the lowest debt amounts in the country.

<a href=View of Kendall Hall as seen from the front" />

Ready to Learn More?

We’ll keep you in the loop on upcoming events, deadlines, and other good-to-know information when you sign up with us. And we won’t send texts without your permission.

<a href=View of Kendall Hall as seen from the front" />

Any Chico State student or applicant for admission to Chico State has the right to be free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. If you feel you have been subjected to the aforementioned, consult CSU Nondiscrimination Policy or contact the Equal Opportunity and Dispute Resolution at 530-898-4949.

Chico State's Annual Security Report includes summaries of institutional policy relating to campus safety, drug and alcohol use, sexual assault, and other matters. The report is published in compliance with the Clery Act and includes three years of certain crime statistics that occurred in Clery Act-defined geography. A paper copy of the report may be requested in person at the University Police Department or by calling 530-898-5555. It is also available on the web at Annual Security & Fire Safety Report.

Connect with Admissions

Call us. Email us. Live chat with us. However you get in touch, we want to hear from you. We’ll connect you with an admission expert who can answer your questions during office hours. (And if you call during business hours, we guarantee a live person on the other end—no automated voice messages.)

Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.