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AdmissionsOS

California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt vs California State University-Monterey Bay

Side by side on admissions, cost, and fit, from the same verified school records.

California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt California State University-Monterey Bay
Acceptance rate lower = more selective 98% 97%
Average net price what students actually pay after aid $13,171 $13,663
Sticker cost of attendance $25,170 $26,987
Graduation rate 49% 59%
Retention rate 76% 80%
Undergraduates 5,612 6,819
Student-faculty ratio 16:1 24:1
Setting Arcata, CA Seaside, CA
Type Public Public
Application fee $70 $70
Test policy Test-blind Test-blind

Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2026-2027 cycle.

Common questions

Is California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt or California State University-Monterey Bay harder to get into?

California State University-Monterey Bay is more selective, with a 97% acceptance rate versus 98% at California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.

Which is cheaper, California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt or California State University-Monterey Bay?

California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt has the lower average net price ($13,171 versus $13,663). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.