Overview
California State University Maritime Academy is an open admission public four-year institution in Vallejo, California. The school accepts most applicants who complete the application process.
Admission Guide
California State University Maritime Academy requires the standard Cal State application through Cal State Apply, with a priority deadline of November 30 for fall admission. You'll need to submit official transcripts and meet the basic CSU eligibility requirements, but the school does not require SAT or ACT scores for admission.
The Marine Transportation program operates as the most competitive pathway since it leads directly to merchant marine officer licenses and requires additional physical and medical requirements including a merchant mariner credential from the U.S. Coast Guard. Engineering programs also maintain higher admission standards compared to other majors at the campus.
Housing fills up quickly at this small waterfront campus in Vallejo. Submit your housing application immediately after admission since the school guarantees housing for first-year students but operates with limited residence hall space. The campus requires all first-year students to live on campus unless you live within commuting distance with family.
New students participate in a mandatory orientation that includes training ship activities if you're in a maritime program. The school operates the training ship Golden Bear, which takes students on extended voyages as part of their coursework. These voyages can last several months and are required for marine transportation and marine engineering majors.
The campus sits on a former naval shipyard along the Carquinez Strait, giving it a unique industrial feel compared to traditional college campuses. Your classes will often take place in converted naval facilities and aboard the training ship. Plan for a rigorous schedule if you choose maritime programs, as they combine traditional academics with hands-on seamanship training and federal licensing requirements.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $17,555/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $7,672
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $19,552
- Students Receiving Aid
- 29%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 66.8%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $94,784/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 75.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the application deadlines for California State University Maritime Academy?
Cal Maritime uses rolling admissions with priority deadlines of November 30 for fall semester and August 31 for spring semester. Applications are accepted after these dates if space remains available.
Does California State University Maritime Academy require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Cal Maritime is test-optional for most programs. SAT or ACT scores are recommended but not required for admission consideration.
Can transfer students apply to California State University Maritime Academy?
Yes, Cal Maritime accepts transfer students who have completed at least 60 transferable semester units from regionally accredited colleges. Transfer applications follow the same deadlines as freshman applications.
What makes California State University Maritime Academy different from other CSU schools?
Cal Maritime is the only maritime academy on the West Coast and requires all students to participate in training cruises aboard the training ship Golden Bear. The school specializes in maritime and engineering programs with hands-on learning at sea.