Overview
California State University-East Bay is an open admission public four-year institution in Hayward, California. The school accepts most applicants who complete the application process.
Admission Guide
California State University-East Bay accepts applications through Cal State Apply, the system-wide application platform, with priority filing periods ending November 30 for fall admission and August 31 for spring admission. You can still apply after these dates if space remains available in your program.
The nursing program requires separate application materials and maintains much higher admission standards than the university overall. You must complete prerequisite courses with strong grades before applying to nursing, and the program admits students only once per year for fall entry. Submit your nursing application early and ensure all prerequisites are finished by spring before your intended fall start.
Construction management also operates as a competitive program with additional requirements beyond general admission. Computer science fills quickly due to high demand, so apply during the priority period even though admission standards remain manageable.
Housing applications open in February for fall admission, and you should apply immediately after acceptance since on-campus housing fills on a first-come basis. The Hayward campus sits in the East Bay hills with limited nearby housing options, making campus residence halls your most convenient choice for the first year.
New student orientation occurs during summer before fall quarter begins. You must attend orientation to register for classes, and registration appointments are assigned based on when you complete orientation and submit your final transcripts.
Cal State East Bay operates on the quarter system rather than semesters, meaning classes start in late September and you will take three quarters per academic year plus optional summer sessions. This affects transfer credit calculations and course planning compared to semester schools.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $11,276/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $7,055
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $18,935
- Students Receiving Aid
- 44%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 45.5%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $71,401/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 78.6%
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application deadline for California State University-East Bay?
Cal State East Bay follows the CSU system application period, which typically runs from October 1 through November 30 for fall admission. Spring admission applications are accepted from August 1 through August 31.
Does California State University-East Bay require SAT or ACT scores?
Cal State East Bay is currently test-optional and does not require SAT or ACT scores for admission. Students may submit test scores if they choose, but they are not mandatory for the application.
Can I transfer to California State University-East Bay from a community college?
Yes, Cal State East Bay accepts transfer students from community colleges. Students need a minimum 2.0 GPA and must complete specific general education requirements and prerequisites for their intended major.
What GPA do I need to get into California State University-East Bay?
Cal State East Bay requires a minimum 2.0 GPA for California residents and a 2.45 GPA for non-residents. Meeting the minimum GPA does not guarantee admission, as the school considers additional factors in the review process.