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AdmissionsOS

California State University-Chico vs California State University-San Bernardino

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

California State University-Chico California State University-San Bernardino
Acceptance rate lower = more selective 93% 94%
Average net price what students actually pay after aid $14,480 $4,564
Sticker cost of attendance $26,283 $17,427
Graduation rate 63% 55%
Retention rate 82% 80%
Undergraduates 13,631 15,023
Student-faculty ratio 23:1 22:1
Setting Chico, CA San Bernardino, 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-Chico or California State University-San Bernardino harder to get into?

California State University-Chico is more selective, with a 93% acceptance rate versus 94% at California State University-San Bernardino. 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-Chico or California State University-San Bernardino?

California State University-San Bernardino has the lower average net price ($4,564 versus $14,480). 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.