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AdmissionsOS

California State University-San Bernardino vs California State University-San Marcos

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

California State University-San Bernardino California State University-San Marcos
Acceptance rate lower = more selective 94% 95%
Average net price what students actually pay after aid $4,564 $10,229
Sticker cost of attendance $17,427 $21,649
Graduation rate 55% 55%
Retention rate 80% 79%
Undergraduates 15,023 14,877
Student-faculty ratio 22:1 24:1
Setting San Bernardino, CA San Marcos, 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 2025-2026 cycle.

Common questions

Is California State University-San Bernardino or California State University-San Marcos harder to get into?

California State University-San Bernardino is more selective, with a 94% acceptance rate versus 95% at California State University-San Marcos. 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-San Bernardino or California State University-San Marcos?

California State University-San Bernardino has the lower average net price ($4,564 versus $10,229). 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.