Built by MIT Lincoln Laboratory engineers, Berkeley, University of California admissions officers, and Ivy League counselors. Proud partner of The Haq Foundation.
AdmissionsOS

California State University-Channel Islands vs California State University-Monterey Bay

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

California State University-Channel Islands California State University-Monterey Bay
Acceptance rate lower = more selective 95% 97%
Average net price what students actually pay after aid $9,849 $13,663
Sticker cost of attendance $23,561 $26,987
Graduation rate 51% 59%
Retention rate 72% 80%
Undergraduates 5,013 6,819
Student-faculty ratio 16:1 24:1
Setting Camarillo, 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 University-Channel Islands or California State University-Monterey Bay harder to get into?

California State University-Channel Islands is more selective, with a 95% acceptance rate versus 97% at California State University-Monterey Bay. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.

Which is cheaper, California State University-Channel Islands or California State University-Monterey Bay?

California State University-Channel Islands has the lower average net price ($9,849 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.