CSU and UC Resources

The California State University (CSU) and University of California (UC) are both highly regarded public university systems in the state of California. Though they may sound similar, there are some key differences between the systems. Here we will look at some of those differences, admission requirements, and application process.

Which schools are in the CSU and UC systems?

What's the difference?

(Adapted from an article on PrepScholar. Read the full article here.)

Size

The CSU system is considerably larger with 23 campuses and close to 500,000 students enrolled versus the nine undergraduate campuses in the UC system with nearly 300,000 students enrolled. However, the individual campuses vary greatly in size.  Most UC campuses are considered large, with 20,000-30,000 students. Campuses in the CSU system have a much larger spread, with several campuses having fewer than 10,000 students and several with 30,000-40,000 students.

Academics

With the larger size, CSU also offers a greater range of majors with over 2,700 bachelor programs available systemwide, whereas the UC system offers about 900. Of course, the available majors will vary by campus so make sure to check with each individual campus to make sure the major you're interested in is offered. One of the main differences between the two systems is noted in their approach to education. UCs are known for being research-driven, focusing on theory and academia. In contrast, CSUs are known for taking a more practical approach and focusing on the hands-on application of learned concepts.

Selectivity

Though both systems offer quality education, UCs are widely regarded as being more prestigious and are highly ranked on college lists nationwide. As such, they are much more difficult to get into than a CSU. The admission requirements are more rigorous at a UC and the acceptance rates are often far lower.

Cost

In-state tuition at a CSU is just under $6,000 per year while at a UC, tuition is a little over $12,000. The total cost may vary slightly by campus due to differing fees but it is clear to see that CSU is much cheaper than UC- by almost half!

What are the admission requirements?

How do I apply?

CSU

Apply on the Cal State Apply website. Applications open each year on October 1st and have a priority deadline of November 30th, though some campuses will accept them later.

UC

Apply on the UC Admissions website. Applications open each year on August 1st and can be submitted between October 1 - November 30. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time as the PIQs can take longer than expected to perfect.

Have these things handy when applying:

• Unofficial transcripts

• Test scores (SAT, ACT, AP, or IB), if applicable

• Your and your parents' citizenship status

• Annual household income

  • • Your parents' if you are a dependent, yours if you are independent

• A method of payment

  • • Both CSU and UC charge $70 per application (per campus)

    • If you can demonstrate financial need, you might qualify for a fee waiver. This will allow you to apply to up to 4 campuses for free! On the application, there will be a section that asks about household income and size. This will determine if you qualify and the fee waiver will automatically be applied when you submit your application. 

• If applying for the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP), you may need additional information about your parents' income, education level, and employment background. Certain campuses will also require letters of recommendation.