Overview
California Baptist University is a less selective private four-year institution in Riverside, California. The school accepts 79.9% of applicants and enrolls 7,914 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 79.9%
- Total Enrollment
- 7,914
Admission Guide
California Baptist University uses a straightforward application process through the Common Application or their institutional application, with no application fee required. You can apply for fall admission through August 1, though applying earlier gives you better access to housing and financial aid opportunities.
Submit your high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores (though test-optional policies may apply), and a personal statement. The admissions office processes applications quickly, often providing decisions within weeks of receiving complete materials.
While CBU admits most applicants, the nursing program requires separate application materials and maintains higher admission standards due to limited clinical placement spots. Engineering programs also have specific math and science prerequisites you must complete in high school.
Housing fills up fast, so submit your housing application immediately after admission acceptance. The university requires all unmarried students under 21 to live on campus unless they live with family within 50 miles. New student orientation occurs during the summer before your first semester and includes academic advising, course registration, and campus familiarization.
CBU operates on a semester system with mandatory chapel attendance twice weekly for all students. The campus has a Christian environment with behavioral expectations outlined in the student handbook, including restrictions on alcohol and overnight guests of the opposite gender in residence halls.
Financial aid decisions come quickly after admission, but California residents should complete the FAFSA early to maximize state grant opportunities. The school offers merit scholarships automatically based on your application materials, with no separate scholarship application required for most awards.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $27,384/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $39,720
- Students Receiving Aid
- 41%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 59.5%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $61,504/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 74.2%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the application deadlines for California Baptist University?
California Baptist University operates on a rolling admissions basis with no specific application deadline. Students are encouraged to apply early for the best housing and financial aid options.
Does California Baptist University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
California Baptist University has adopted a test-optional policy for most undergraduate programs. Students may submit SAT or ACT scores but they are not required for admission consideration.
How many transfer credits does California Baptist University accept?
California Baptist University accepts up to 70 semester units of transfer credit from community colleges and up to 90 semester units from four-year institutions. All transfer coursework must have grades of C- or better to be considered.
Does California Baptist University offer early decision or early action?
California Baptist University does not offer early decision or early action programs. The university uses rolling admissions, reviewing applications as they are received throughout the year.