California State University-San Bernardino's published cost of attendance is $16,910 per year, including $7,675 in-state tuition, $12,996 for room and board, and $788 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $5,918 after financial aid, representing savings of $10,992 annually.
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Net prices are averages and may vary. Based on federal data for first-time, full-time students receiving aid.
| Cost Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Attendance (Sticker Price) | $17,427 |
| Tuition and Fees | $20,693 |
| Room and Board | $15,002 |
| Books and Supplies | $886 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$12,863 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $4,564 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $2,681 |
| $30–48k | $2,680 |
| $48–75k | $4,735 |
| $75–110k | $7,745 |
| $110k+ | $14,316 |
California State University-San Bernardino's published cost of attendance is $16,910 per year, including $7,675 in-state tuition, $12,996 for room and board, and $788 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $5,918 after financial aid, representing savings of $10,992 annually. This net price ranks exceptionally well compared to the peer median of $15,590, making Cal State San Bernardino $9,672 more affordable than similar institutions.
The substantial difference between sticker price and actual cost reflects the university's strong financial aid programs and commitment to affordability. California residents benefit from lower in-state tuition rates, while the comprehensive financial aid packaging ensures that published prices do not create barriers for qualified students. The university's affordability index ranks at the 95.0th percentile with top-tier performance, indicating exceptional value relative to comparable institutions nationwide.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Cal State San Bernardino graduates maintain exceptionally low debt levels that support long-term financial stability. Median student debt of $14,715 ranks in the 86th percentile nationally and well above average, representing $5,285 less than the peer median of $20,000.
Student debt ranges from $5,500 at the 25th percentile to $23,776 at the 75th percentile, indicating most graduates avoid excessive borrowing. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.25 falls well below problematic levels, meaning graduates can manage loan payments while maintaining healthy financial lives.
Parent PLUS median debt of $12,528 results in monthly payments of approximately $165, reflecting manageable family borrowing levels. This debt profile reflects the university's emphasis on affordability through strong financial aid rather than encouraging heavy borrowing.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Cal State San Bernardino provides exceptional return on investment through the combination of low costs, manageable debt, and strong earnings uplift. Graduates earn $13,310 beyond expectations compared to similar students nationally, ranking in the 89.4th percentile and well above average for value-added performance.
This earnings premium, achieved with median debt of $14,715 versus a peer median of $20,000, creates a favorable investment profile. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.25 indicates graduates can service their loans while building wealth over time.
With net prices averaging $9,672 less than peer institutions and comparable earnings outcomes, students receive exceptional value for their educational investment. The university's top-tier affordability ranking at the 95.0th percentile, combined with well above average earnings uplift, positions Cal State San Bernardino among the strongest values in California public higher education.
Cal State San Bernardino provides substantial financial aid support, particularly for students from lower-income backgrounds. With 57.1% of students receiving Pell grants, the university serves a student population with significant financial need, well above national averages for four-year institutions.
The $10,992 average financial aid savings represents 65% of the total cost of attendance, indicating comprehensive support that makes higher education accessible to students regardless of family income. The progressive net price structure by income demonstrates targeted aid allocation, with the lowest-income students paying less than 20% of the published cost.
This approach aligns with the university's mission as an Opportunity Builder institution, removing financial barriers that might prevent students from diverse economic backgrounds from pursuing higher education. Students should expect robust financial aid packaging that may include federal and state grants, work-study opportunities, and institutional aid designed to minimize borrowing needs.
