💰 Cost of Attendance at California State Long Beach 2026-2027
📅 2026–2027 Planning Note: The costs below reflect the most recently published figures (2025–2026). Universities typically finalize the next year’s rates in the spring, and we’ll update this page once official 2026–2027 numbers are released.
Planning tip: At large public universities, tuition, fees, and housing usually increase modestly each year (often in the 2–5% range). For early budgeting, families may want to plan for roughly $1,000–$1,500 more in-state or $2,000–$3,000 more out-of-state in total direct costs once new rates are published.
Category (2026–2027)
In-State
Out-of-State
Tuition & Mandatory Fees (2 semesters)
$8,312
$21,632
Housing & Meals (typical)
$16,666
$16,666
Total (Direct Costs)
$24,978
$38,298
Average Federal Net Price: $9,731 — this is what families actually paid after grants and scholarships (no loans), based on the most recent federal data. Your specific cost could be significantly lower or higher depending on your financial aid eligibility and merit scholarships. New to Net Price & SAI? Read our guide.
🌎 Regional Tuition Programs: CSULB does not participate in the
Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) or other reciprocity programs.
Nonresident students pay standard CSU nonresident tuition and mandatory fees.
❓ Cost & Residency FAQs
Who qualifies for in-state tuition?
California residents and certain undocumented students who meet AB 540 criteria qualify for in-state rates.
How much more do nonresidents pay?
Roughly $13,000–$14,000 more per year than California residents.
Are there out-of-state discounts?
No — CSULB does not offer WUE or regional tuition waivers. Out-of-state students can only reduce costs through need-based or merit aid.
What’s included in “average net price”?
It reflects what families actually paid after grants and scholarships, excluding loans or work-study earnings.
Sources (COA):
CSULB Cost of Attendance (budgets & allowances): https://www.csulb.edu/financial-aid/cost-attendance
Tuition & Mandatory Fees (CSULB): https://www.csulb.edu/student-records/tuition-and-fees
CSU system tuition & nonresident per-unit charge: https://www2.calstate.edu/attend/paying-for-college/tuition
Housing & Dining Rates (CSULB Housing): https://www.csulb.edu/housing
FAFSA/CADAA dates & aid info (CSULB Financial Aid): https://www.csulb.edu/financial-aid
CSU scholarships are usually portal-driven.
Before you hunt “lists,” read: CSU Scholarships Explained
(what to do first, what deadlines parents miss, and where the real money hides).
✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships
CSULB does not offer automatic, GPA/test-based institutional scholarships like some universities. Most awards require a separate application via the BeachScholarships portal or the University Honors Program. The main state-funded “automatic” aid is the Middle Class Scholarship, awarded by the California Student Aid Commission to eligible families.
Automatic⚠ All Undergrad Only
Middle Class Scholarship (State of California)
📅 Deadline: March 2 · 📢 Results: Late September ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
MCS is a 'last-dollar' style award — CSAC subtracts your cost of attendance from all your other gift aid (Pell, Cal Grant, CSULB institutional scholarships, private scholarships) plus a $8,154 self-help expectation and (for dependents over $100K household income) a parent contribution. Whatever's left is your MCS. That means picking up a big institutional or private scholarship will usually shrink — or even zero out — your MCS, not add to it. Don't count on it as a fixed line item until late September.
💡
Strategic Detail
State-funded program administered by the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC), not CSULB. For 2026-27, eligibility requires family income ≤ $250,000 and household assets ≤ $250,000. Awards are formula-driven (cost of attendance minus other gift aid minus $8,154 self-help contribution minus, for dependents, a parent contribution above $100K), so amounts vary widely and the floor is roughly $90/year. Note: California's proposed FY2027 budget contains a cut to the MCS program, so final amounts and ceilings could shift before disbursement. Half-time (6+ units) enrollment is the floor; awards are pro-rated below 12 units at the fifth-week census.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
California residents (and AB540-eligible CADAA filers including DACA and undocumented students) from middle- and lower-income families whose total grant aid doesn't already cover their full cost of attendance. The 2026-27 ceilings are family income up to $250,000 and household assets up to $250,000, so the program reaches well into upper-middle-class territory. Actual award amounts vary enormously — some students receive the $90/year statutory minimum, others receive several thousand, depending entirely on how much other aid they already have.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Note: This is a state-funded award. For CSULB-specific scholarships, use the BeachScholarships portal (open Jan–Mar for following year; rolling deadlines for some programs). Cal State Long Beach does not offer automatic merit tiers.
❓ Automatic Merit FAQs
How do I get the Middle Class Scholarship?
File your FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application by the March 2 state deadline and meet California Student Aid Commission eligibility criteria.
Does CSULB give automatic merit aid based on GPA/test scores?
No—merit aid at CSULB is competitive or departmental. All institutional awards require an application via BeachScholarships or Honors.
What is BeachScholarships?
CSULB’s online portal for internal scholarships. Complete one general app to be considered for dozens of scholarships across campus—just make sure you submit before each year’s March deadline!
🏆 Competitive Scholarships
CSULB’s flagship merit award is the President’s Scholarship, awarded to a select group of top students through the University Honors Program. It offers full tuition and additional benefits but is highly competitive and has special application steps.
Full TuitionApp Required
President's Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 15 ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Tuition
tuition, housing, and book stipend package (individualized)
✔ Stackable
⚠ Highly selective Honors scholarship that covers full CSU resident tuition and fees plus a book stipend for four years.
🏫 3.5+ GPA👥 ~25 winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
This is CSULB's most generous institutional package and is designed to combine with state aid like Cal Grant and the Middle Class Scholarship — but because the award already covers full resident tuition and fees (plus typical housing and book support), any other tuition-specific or housing-specific aid you bring in will usually reduce the President's portion dollar-for-dollar rather than stack on top. The total package can't exceed your cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to CSULB for first-year or transfer admission, then submit the University Honors Program application during the President's Scholarship round (Feb 1 – March 15) via the Qualtrics portal; the application requires unofficial transcripts, a personal statement, and a recommender's contact info so they can submit a letter on your behalf. Selected finalists are reviewed for the President's Scholarship from the Honors admit pool — there is no separate scholarship application.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
CSULB's flagship merit award — 25 incoming Scholars are selected each year from students admitted to the University Honors Program, and packages are individually built from donor funds. Typical Scholars receive full CSU resident tuition and fees plus on-campus housing in the Honors House (Los Cerritos) and a book/course materials stipend for four years, though exact benefits can vary by cohort and donor designation. Honors application opens Feb 1 and closes March 15 for President's Scholarship consideration; a second Honors-only round runs April 1 – May 1 (no President's Scholarship eligibility in that round). Continuing CSULB students may join Honors but are not eligible for the President's Scholarship — this is a freshman/transfer entry point only.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Realistically, this is a top-of-class award. The published eligibility floor for the Honors Program (the pool President's Scholars are picked from) is a 3.5 GPA, but admitted Scholars typically present 3.8–4.0 unweighted GPAs, are valedictorians or near-top of their high school class, have a documented record of leadership and community service, and write a personal statement that shows genuine intellectual curiosity and a commitment to undergraduate research. With only 25 incoming Scholars selected from a statewide and national applicant pool, treat it as your reach merit play, not your safety.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
❓ President’s Scholarship FAQ
Do I need a separate application?
No extra app is needed—complete the University Honors first-round application (Feb 1–Mar 1) with one recommendation for full scholarship consideration.
What are the key deadlines?
Apply to CSULB via Cal State Apply by Nov 30, then Honors by March 1 (first round). Second-round applicants (March 15–May 15) are not considered for the scholarship.
Are transfer students eligible?
Yes. The program is open to new first-year and transfer students who meet the eligibility and deadline requirements.
How competitive is it?
Very—selective academic record (~3.8+ GPA), leadership, strong essays, and meaningful engagement are typical for recipients.
How do renewals work?
Students can renew the scholarship for four years by maintaining Honors good standing (3.0+ GPA), completing Honors curriculum, and staying engaged with program requirements.
Can this stack with other aid?
The package covers tuition and housing. Stacking with Cal Grant, Pell, or need grants is possible in some cases, but state/federal awards may be reduced. Always consult Financial Aid for your scenario.
GPA/test bands are general indicators—CSULB does not publish fixed minimums for President’s Scholarship consideration.
💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships
These awards fly under the radar but can meaningfully cut costs—especially for first‑gen, undocumented, foster‑youth, ROTC, study‑abroad, and department‑specific students. Most live in the campus portals below and open on predictable cycles.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Army ROTC Scholarships (CSULB Army ROTC)
📅 Deadline: Various (national fall/winter; campus ongoing) ✓ Renews
Varies
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
May affect other tuition/living aid awards.
📄
How to Apply
Apply via ROTC boards; meet physical, medical, fitness, and GPA standards.
💡
Strategic Detail
Room/board, books, stipends possible.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Cadets in good standing who meet ROTC, GPA, and participation requirements
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Chicano & Latino Studies Scholarships
📅 Deadline: March 1 (BeachScholarships) Non-Renewable
$500–$1,000
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply via BeachScholarships or department; references and intent required.
💡
Strategic Detail
Some awards for health/education focus
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Active, engaged CHLS majors/minors with references and clear career intent
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
College of Education Donor Scholarships
📅 Deadline: March 1 (BeachScholarships) ✓ Renews
$500–$5,000
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply via BeachScholarships; one application covers multiple donor awards.
💡
Strategic Detail
Includes undergrad and grad; service reference often helpful
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Education students with good GPA, service, and references
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Dream Success Center (DSC) Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Dec–March (varies by fund) Non-Renewable
$500–$2,250/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply via DSC, BeachScholarships, or direct fund application; statement/leadership/service recommended.
💡
Strategic Detail
Open to all majors; not open to international students on an F-1 visa.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Undocumented/AB 540 students active with DSC, showing leadership/service
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Guardian Scholars (Former Foster Youth)
📅 Deadline: Rolling; annual deadlines each fall ✓ Renews
$1,000–$5,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply via Guardian Scholars app; stay active in program and meet academic progress.
💡
Strategic Detail
Aid amounts are basic needs support; some funds have additional eligibility.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Current/former foster-youth who meet program eligibility and participate in GS activities
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Journalism & Public Relations Dept. Awards
📅 Deadline: March 1 (BeachScholarships) Non-Renewable
$250–$5,000
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply via BeachScholarships; submit work sample or essay, obtain references.
✎ Essays
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Active majors with campus media experience and strong work sample/essay
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Long Beach State Promise Award
📅 Deadline: March 1 (BeachScholarships) Non-Renewable
$500
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply via BeachScholarships; must be part of LB College Promise pipeline.Restricted to graduates of participating Long Beach-area high schools (LBUSD). Not available statewide.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Locals from LBUSD/LBCC Promise pipeline who apply early
Apply via CSU-wide app, campus coordinated; upper-division/grad students planning for the PhD.
💡
Strategic Detail
Includes option for summer research.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Juniors, seniors, grads with doctorate intent and mentor
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Study/Intern Abroad — Career Development Center Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Varies Non-Renewable
$750–$1,000
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply via Career Development Center; must be accepted to campus-approved program.
💡
Strategic Detail
All majors eligible if accepted to approved program.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Applicants with clear academic/professional goals for abroad/intern experience
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
❓ Hidden Gem Scholarship FAQs
Where do you apply for most campus scholarships?
Start at BeachScholarships (Jan–March deadline); follow up with your department, Dream Success Center, or Career Center for special programs.
Can undocumented students apply?
Yes—most CSULB scholarships are open to undocumented students; the Dream Success Center specifically offers dedicated scholarships and support.
Do these awards stack with financial aid?
Usually, yes—most departmental and external scholarships can stack with grants. Tuition-specific aid (e.g., ROTC tuition) may affect other tuition awards, so check with Financial Aid after you win.
When should you start preparing?
Begin gathering references and drafts by winter break. Most applications open January, with deadlines usually in March. Plan early for study/intern abroad or ROTC awards.
🎖️ Honors College
CSULB’s University Honors Program (UHP) is a small, campus-wide honors experience with seminars, senior thesis/project, dedicated faculty mentorship, and access to exclusive merit aid, including the President’s Scholarship.
This institution does not offer designated Honors College scholarships at this time.
*CSU is test-free for admission; SAT/ACT is not considered. GPA ranges are estimates based on recent cohorts, as CSULB does not publish a minimum for the President’s Scholarship.
❓ University Honors Program FAQ
Is admission to Honors automatic?
No. Submit the Honors application in the first round (Feb 1–Mar 1) for President’s Scholarship consideration; second round is for Honors only, space permitting.
Do test scores help?
No. The CSU is test-free for admission; scores, if submitted, are used only for placement.
Can transfers apply?
Yes. High-achieving new transfer admits are eligible, and may be considered for the President’s Scholarship if they meet deadlines.
Does Honors add time to graduation?
No. The Honors curriculum is designed to integrate with a standard four-year plan, including the thesis/project.
Can the President’s Scholarship stack with other aid?
Usually, the package includes both a tuition waiver and housing stipend. Stacking with tuition-based awards may be limited, so confirm with Financial Aid once you receive an award.
What is required to renew the scholarship?
Remain in Honors, make required progress including the thesis/project, and keep a 3.0 or better GPA each year.
Exceptional diversity and inclusion metrics — ranked #6 in the nation for awarding engineering degrees to Hispanic students; #5 for female tenure-track engineering faculty; #3 nationally for minority engineering degrees.
Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) excellence — ranked #11 of 377 Best HSIs and #14 of 181 Best AANAPISI schools (Niche).
Top-ranked programs by College Factual:
Consumer Sciences: #1 of 31
Health Sciences & Services: #2 of 231
Parks, Recreation & Leisure Studies: #3 of 47
Computer Engineering Technology: #4 of 22
Textile & Apparel Studies: #8 of 51
📎 Official Links — California State University, Long Beach
California State University, Long Beach is one of the most in-demand campuses in the CSU system—and for good reason.
Known for its strengths in business, the arts, and engineering, CSULB offers a high-quality education at an accessible price.
The university’s mix of automatic scholarships, need-based aid, and special programs like the President’s Scholars make it an excellent value for strong students.
For families seeking a diverse, career-focused environment with real affordability, “The Beach” lives up to its reputation as one of California’s best public universities.
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