California State University, Los Angeles
California State University, Los Angeles is a public university within the large California State University system, located in the Los Angeles metropolitan area. It serves a large, diverse student population with a broad range of graduate programmes.
Institution size
Large
Min. CGPA floor
2.5
Tuition / yr
$17k–$20k
Type
Public university (CSU system)
Key Facts
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Los Angeles, California, United States |
| Type | Public university (CSU system) |
| Institution size | Large |
| Rankings | Part of the 23-campus California State University system; not typically featured in the QS/THE global top 800, though individual programmes hold specialised accreditation. |
| Notable feature | Part of the 23-campus CSU system; located in a major US metro area |
| Official website | calstatela.edu |
Admission Requirements for Low CGPA and Backlog Applicants
- Published minimum graduate CGPA: 2.5
- Applies to most master’s programmes across the university
- Assessed alongside supporting application materials rather than as an automatic cutoff
Tuition and Fees
| Item | Approximate Range |
|---|---|
| Graduate tuition (international) | $17k–$20k per year |
| Living costs (Los Angeles) | High; among the more expensive US cities for accommodation |
Figures are indicative and reviewed annually by the institution. Confirm current rates directly with the university before budgeting.
Programmes Offered
- Business Administration (MBA)
- Public Health
- Criminal Justice
- Education
- Computer Science
- Social Work
Degree Levels Offered
- Diploma / Certificate: Offered
- Undergraduate (Bachelor’s): Offered
- Postgraduate (Master’s / MSc / MA): Offered
- Doctorate (PhD): Not offered at this institution
- Post-Doctoral Fellowship: Not offered at this institution
- Short Courses: Offered
Availability of Short Courses and Post-Doctoral Fellowship positions can vary by department and is not always centrally advertised; confirm current openings directly with the relevant faculty.
Scholarships and Funding
- CSU system and campus-specific merit awards available to qualifying graduate applicants
- International student scholarships limited; most funding support comes through assistantship or on-campus employment opportunities
Application Process
- Confirm the specific CGPA, GPA, or classification requirement for the target programme directly with the admissions office
- Complete required English proficiency testing (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) if applicable
- Prepare transcripts, statement of purpose, recommendation letters or references, and a resume or CV
- Submit the application through the university’s official admissions portal and pay the application fee
- Await the admission decision and, once accepted, pay any required deposit
- Apply for the relevant student visa or study permit using the offer letter and financial documentation
Admission Outlook
Cal State LA’s 2.5 floor and CSU-system tuition make it one of the more financially realistic options for studying in a major US city, though Los Angeles living costs offset some of the tuition savings compared to smaller-city alternatives.
Campus Life
Based in Los Angeles, the university offers access to one of the largest job markets in the United States, alongside a large existing international and first-generation student community.
International students generally have access to a dedicated international student office, orientation programming, and student clubs and societies. Housing options typically include on-campus or university-affiliated accommodation alongside private rental options; applicants should apply for housing as early as possible after accepting an offer, since availability varies by intake and city.
Other Essential Information
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Typical intakes | Fall (August/September) is the primary intake with the widest programme availability; Spring (January) intake is offered by many universities with more limited programme choice. |
| English language requirement | IELTS overall band 6.0-6.5 or TOEFL iBT 70-90 is typical for graduate admission, varying by programme. |
| Student visa type | F-1 Student Visa |
| Post-study work options | Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows up to 12 months of post-study work authorisation, extendable to 36 months for STEM-designated degrees. |
Official Resources
- University homepage: calstatela.edu
Compare California State University, Los Angeles against other accessible universities on our Find a Course page, or contact us for help confirming eligibility.