California State University, San Marcos Logo

California State University, San Marcos

US Flag
San Marcos, California, US

333 South Twin Oaks Valley Road, San Marcos

Last updated: 14/03/2025
Image for California State University, San Marcos
Image for California State University, San Marcos
Image for California State University, San Marcos
Image for California State University, San Marcos
Image for California State University, San Marcos
California State University, San Marcos Logo

School Details

About California State University, San Marcos

Since its founding in 1989, California State University San Marcos has been dedicated to student success, social mobility and innovation. Through first-year programs, learning communities, internships, undergraduate research and much more, the university works to foster deep learning and academic success by engaging students in meaningful and innovative educational experiences. Located on a 306-acre hillside overlooking the city of San Marcos, CSUSM is the only public four-year comprehensive university serving North San Diego, Southwest Riverside and South Orange counties.

Building on an innovative 30-year history, California State University San Marcos is a forward-focused institution, dedicated to preparing future leaders, building great communities and solving critical issues. CSUSM enrollment is over 16,000 and the university is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Outstanding faculty and staff ensure that even on a large campus, CSUSM offers small classes with a student-to-faculty ratio of 24:1.

To learn a bit more about the student experience at CSU San Marcos, take a look at the following student testimonials:

Why California State University, San Marcos

  • Location: Located in North San Diego County, in between the city of San Diego to the south, and Orange and Riverside counties to the north, Cal State San Marcos’ unique location offers endless opportunities for exploration and activities. Minutes from the area’s best beaches and an hour from both the desert and the mountains; discover the sights near the vibrant campus in the idyllic foothills of San Marcos.
  • Diversity: CSUSM remains firmly committed to diversity and inclusion, receiving the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, the oldest and largest diversity-focused publication in higher education, for the seventh straight year in 2020. The university also stands among the national leaders in the social mobility of its graduates, ranking 28th nationally out of almost 1,500 schools measured in the 2020 Social Mobility Index by CollegeNET. The index measures the extent to which a college or university educates more economically disadvantaged students at lower tuition and graduates them into good-paying jobs.
  • Athletics: CSUSM Athletics strives to build and maintain a successful, balanced athletic program that is consistent with the goals of the University. The Department of Athletics is committed to advancing academic and athletic excellence, while enhancing student lives and promoting Cal State San Marcos. CSUSM Athletics is committed to providing equitable opportunities for every student-athlete while upholding the principles of sportsmanship, ethical conduct, and integrity.




Login Now
Login Now & Experience More
Login Now

Programs

Loading

ApplyBoard Services

GIC
Program

International Student GIC Program

Obtain your GIC from one of Canada’s largest banks without any processing fees.

Visit RBC GIC ProgramVisit TD GIC Program
Student
Loans

ApplyBoard Loans Services

Don’t let a lack of funds keep you from achieving your dreams. Jumpstart your (or your student’s) educational journey with ApplyBoard Student Loans.

Institution Details


Founded
1989
School ID
2215
Institution Type
Public

Cost and Duration


Average application fee
$70.00 - $150.00 USD
Average graduate program
One Year
Average undergraduate program
3 Years
Cost of living
$20,644.00 USD / Year
Average gross tuition
$18,517.68 USD / First Year

Average Time to Receive Letter of Acceptance


January - April
31+ days
May - August
31+ days
September - December
15-30 days

Top Disciplines


Arts
37%
Sciences
30%
Business, Management and Economics
10%
Other
21%

Program LevelsProgram levels for California State University, San Marcos include: 82 4-Year Bachelor's Degrees, 19 Postgraduate Certificate / Master's Degrees, 3 Others


Study in California State University, San Marcos & Achieve Your Dreams

Ready to launch your study abroad journey? You make it happen, but ApplyBoard makes it easy! Follow in the steps of 500,000+ other students and trust our experts to guide your way.
Register for Free Today
Study in California State University, San Marcos