California Baptist University

At California Baptist University (CBU), students from over 70 countries choose to study in the heart of Southern California — where innovation, industry and opportunity meet.

CBU delivers a well-rounded education with a strong return on investment. Graduates enjoy a 96 percent OPT-Hired rate, meaning nearly all international students approved for post-study work were successfully hired during their training period. Students benefit from hands-on programs, career counseling and industry-linked internships across fields such as:

• Engineering and Computer Science
• Business (including MBA specializations in Digital Marketing & Business Analytics)
• Architecture, Visual Arts and Design
• Public Health and Biomedical Sciences
• Psychology, Education and Behavioral Science
• Aviation Flight and Management
• Nursing and Health Sciences

CBU delivers a high-value education with exceptional student support. With more than 150 programs at undergraduate, master's and doctoral levels, alongside small class sizes, a 20:1 student-faculty ratio and personalized faculty support, students receive the tools and mentorship needed to succeed globally.

CBU is located just one hour from Los Angeles in the safe and sunny city of Riverside, ranking among the top five campuses in the U.S. for both campus quality and food. International undergraduate students benefit from a range of scholarship opportunities, including automatic merit awards of up to USD 17,000 per year, alongside additional grants designed to support academic success.

CBU combines the scale and energy of a large NCAA Division I university with the personalized support of a private institution. Students don't have to choose between big-school opportunities and small-school care. At CBU, both are provided.

CBU is a Christian university that welcomes learners of all backgrounds, supporting each student professionally and personally so that each one is equipped to live their purpose and make an impact in the world.

At California Baptist University, teaching quality is at the heart of the educational experience. The university's teaching faculty consists of experienced professionals and scholars who bring both practical expertise and academic knowledge into the classroom, creating a rich learning environment. Programs are designed to incorporate a Christian worldview, encouraging students to explore their faith in relation to their studies. The university supports student success with personalized academic tutoring and writing assistance across various subject areas.

Students benefit from small class sizes and a faculty dedicated to both academic excellence and spiritual development. Programs are delivered through CBU's network of academic schools and colleges, while new programs are added to the university's portfolio each year, ensuring that its selection remains fully updated and relevant to the modern graduate employment market. CBU not only prepares students academically and professionally but also helps develop their leadership and ethical values. This is shown, among other factors, by a 96 percent OPT-Hired rate, highlighting the success with which CBU graduates are hired after applying for a position through the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program.

California Baptist University offers a diverse and well-organized departmental structure that supports a broad spectrum of academic interests alongside a faith-oriented curriculum.

The university is divided into ten schools and colleges, each specializing in a distinct field of study:

• College of Architecture, Visual Arts and Design
• College of Arts and Sciences
• College of Behavioral and Social Sciences
• College of Engineering
• College of Health Science
• College of Nursing
• School of Business
• School of Christian Ministries
• School of Education
• School of Performing Arts

Within each department, interdisciplinary collaboration is encouraged to enrich the academic experience and promote holistic learning. Faculty work closely within their areas of expertise while also engaging in cross-departmental initiatives, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education in preparation for career success.

World-Class Facilities

In 2026, California Baptist University is ranked top 3 for the best college campus in America by Niche. For those looking to live on campus, the dorms at CBU are ranked top 2 in California. The school's beautiful 162-acre campus is situated in the heart of Riverside's historic Magnolia Avenue district, just a short drive from popular beaches and mountain resorts. World-class facilities include an Architecture lab, Nursing center, Exercise Physiology lab, Aviation training center and flight school, Engineering building, graphic design studio, three-story student recreation center and a state-of-the-art 5,050-seat sports arena, just to name a few.

California Baptist University provides a diverse array of programs across various levels of study, covering a wide range of subject areas. As such, specific admission requirements vary, and prospective students are encouraged to visit the CBU International Admissions webpage for full details of their chosen program.

Applicants must submit an application through the CBU website and submit official transcripts from any previously attended institution. ​All transcripts should be sent to the International Admissions office.

A USD 45 non-refundable application fee is required to submit an application (waived with IDP), and students are also expected to write a short essay outlining their academic, social and spiritual goals. An interview may be conducted in lieu of the essay.

Prospective students applying from non-English speaking countries must demonstrate English proficiency to ensure a successful experience at CBU. English proficiency can be demonstrated in several ways, and CBU's Intensive English Program is offered for applicants who are not language proficient for additional English language training.

Student safety

At California Baptist University, ensuring a secure and welcoming environment for all students and staff is a top priority. CBU provides comprehensive safety services to the university community and promotes a safe and secure environment that supports the university's mission and philosophy. The department performs a range of roles, including general campus security, traffic and parking, emergency response and safety awareness.

CBU Safety Services assist with the protection of students, employees and property, as well as performing an educational role in teaching members of the university community to look out for one another.

Students at CBU can also download the LiveSafe App, which enables students and staff to stay informed, connected and secure by providing direct communication with emergency services and CBU's security team 24/7.

California Baptist University dedicates significant resources to offer a wide range of financial aid options, ensuring students receive the support they need throughout their educational journey. These include scholarships, grants, and on-campus employment opportunities, which are designed to give students the resources needed to complete their studies in confidence.

The following undergraduate scholarships are available for first-time freshmen students enrolling in Fall 2026:

• Trustees Scholarship: USD 18,000 per year for a 4.0 GPA and above.
• Presidents Scholarship: USD 17,000 per year for a 3.9–3.99 GPA.
• Deans Scholarship: USD 16,000 per year for a 3.3–3.89 GPA.
• Directors Scholarship: USD 14,000 per year for a 2.95–3.29 GPA.

The following scholarships are available for incoming transfer students (after meeting language requirements):

• Transfer Platinum: USD 15,000 per year for a 3.75 GPA and above.
• Transfer Gold: USD 14,000 per year for a 3.5–3.75 GPA.
• Transfer Blue: USD 13,000 per year for a 3.0–3.49 GPA.
• Transfer Bronze: USD 11,000 per year for a 2.5–2.99 GPA.

Maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0 is required for scholarship renewal.

Graduate aid is also available, as are numerous on-campus employment opportunities.

Applicants are encouraged to contact the CBU International Admissions office for detailed scholarship information. Additional important information for international financial aid and I-20 financial requirements can be found at the international finances webpage.

California Baptist University is constantly evolving to better serve its students and community. The university has recently implemented new academic partnerships, enhanced campus facilities and organized the introduction of updated programs that integrate faith with modern scholarship.

CBU recently celebrated 30 years of leadership from Dr. Ronald Ellis, the President of California Baptist University since 1994. Since Ellis became president of then-California Baptist College in 1994, enrollment has grown from 808 to 12,516, more than 15 times larger. Under his leadership, CBC became California Baptist University in 1998 and now features 10 colleges and professional schools, offering more than 150 majors and minors with more than 40 master's and nine doctoral programs. Additionally, Lancer Athletics has risen to new heights, with all 18 of CBU's intercollegiate teams now competing on the exhilarating stage of NCAA Division I athletics.

Prospective students are invited to visit the CBU News and Events website to read more about the many profound and exciting things taking place at this wonderful university.