California State University-Stanislaus

California State University-Stanislaus admits 97.5% of applicants, meaning roughly 39 out of 40 applicants receive an offer of admission. This places Cal State Stanislaus in the Open Access category, welcoming students across a broad range of academic backgrounds and preparation levels.

The peer median admission rate of 84.6% indicates that Cal State Stanislaus is more accessible than most comparable four-year public institutions by nearly 13 percentage points. This high acceptance rate reflects the university's mission to serve diverse student populations, particularly first-generation and transfer students who comprise substantial portions of the enrolled class.

Applicants should expect admission decisions based on meeting minimum eligibility requirements rather than competitive selection among qualified candidates. For prospective students, this accessibility creates opportunities to focus on academic preparation and program fit rather than admission uncertainty.

Students considering Cal State Stanislaus should evaluate whether their academic goals align with the institution's program offerings and support systems, particularly given the university's strong track record with students from underrepresented backgrounds. The combination of open access with demonstrated post-graduation outcomes makes Cal State Stanislaus an attractive option for students seeking educational opportunity without the stress of highly competitive admission processes.

California State University-Stanislaus publishes a cost of attendance of $18,542 per year, consisting of $19,706 in out-of-state tuition (though in-state students pay $7,826), $12,728 for room and board, and $1,038 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $5,671 after financial aid, representing substantial savings of $12,871 from the published price.

This dramatic reduction reflects the university's commitment to affordability and its effectiveness in providing financial assistance to students, particularly given that 55.3% of enrolled students are Pell-eligible. The net price of $5,671 ranks exceptionally well compared to the peer median of $14,093, meaning Cal State Stanislaus costs $8,422 less annually than comparable institutions.

This affordability advantage stems from both the university's lower base costs as a California State University system institution and its strategic financial aid allocation. For many students, particularly those from lower-income families, the actual cost of attendance becomes remarkably manageable through a combination of federal Pell grants, state Cal Grants, and institutional aid.

The substantial gap between sticker price and net price demonstrates that families should not be deterred by published costs, as most students pay significantly less than the full cost of attendance.

Cal State Stanislaus graduates demonstrate substantial earnings growth over their career trajectory. Median earnings rise from $47,793 six years after enrollment to $54,955 at eight years and $63,188 at ten years, representing 32.2% growth from the six-year mark.

These outcomes are based on a ten-year cohort of 2,689 graduates, providing high confidence in the reported figures across multiple program areas. Graduates earn $18,121 beyond expectations compared to similar students nationally, placing Cal State Stanislaus in the 93.3rd percentile for earnings uplift with top-tier performance.

Low-income graduates earn $47,700, reflecting the institution's effectiveness in serving its predominantly lower-income student population. Earnings span from $39,410 at the 25th percentile to $86,094 at the 75th percentile, indicating meaningful variation based on program choice and career development.

Approximately 22.3% of graduates continue to graduate or professional study, indicating balanced preparation for both workforce entry and advanced education pathways. Cal State Stanislaus compares favorably to peer institutions, with graduates earning $13,072 more annually than the peer median of $50,116.

Cal State Stanislaus offers 19 bachelor's degree programs with federal earnings data for comprehensive ranking analysis. General Studies ranks #9 nationally and #3 in California, producing 235 graduates with median earnings of $50,537 and an exceptional value score of 95.6.

Adult Health Nurse/Nursing ranks #19 nationally and #11 in California, graduating 135 students with median earnings of $111,925 and a value score of 93.4. Corrections Administration ranks #24 nationally and #6 in California, graduating 223 students with median earnings of $51,658.

English Language and Literature, General ranks #24 nationally and #6 in California, with 50 graduates earning $53,207. Business Administration and Management serves as the university's largest program, graduating 412 students annually with median earnings of $53,911, reflecting strong student demand and solid career outcomes.

Psychology, General graduates 373 students with earnings of $41,432, representing the second-largest program by enrollment.