California State University, Sacramento: Eligibility, Tuition and Scholarships | IDP Vietnam

California State University, Sacramento (Sac State) was founded in 1947, is a public university located in Sacramento, the capital of the state of California. Strategically located in the political and economic center of the state of California, Sac State provides students with a dynamic learning environment and a variety of internship and employment opportunities in government agencies, businesses, and nonprofits.

California State University Sacramento is located in the political and economic center of California

The university currently brings together more than 31,000 students along with more than 1,600 faculty and staff, including more than 3,000 international students from 65 countries. The university offers 151 bachelor's programs, 69 master's programs, 28 teaching certificates, and 5 doctoral programs, meeting the diverse learning needs of domestic and international students.

1.1. Facilities

California State University, Sacramento has a main campus of about 305 acres, located near U.S. Highway 50. The university has 30 research and community service centers, including the California Research Center, the Institute for Social Research, and the Small Business Center.

California State University, Sacramento has state-of-the-art facilities

The California State University Sacramento Library is the third-largest library in the California State University system, with more than 1.4 million books, 79 private classrooms, 4 meeting rooms, and 14 instructional classrooms. In addition, the university also owns a modern dormitory system such as Riverview Hall and American River Courtyard, which can accommodate more than 2,100 students.

1.2. School Highlights

#38 in Regional Universities West – ranked among the best universities in the Western region (U.S. News 2026).

#16 in Top Public Schools – top public schools in the Western region (U.S. News 2026).

#35 for Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs – undergraduate engineering programs receive high ratings (U.S. News 2026).

#16 in Best Colleges for Veterans – highly rated for veterans (U.S. News 2026).

#5 in Best Undergraduate Teaching – highly ranked for undergraduate teaching quality (U.S. News 2026).

#14 in Top Performers on Social Mobility – strong in supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds (U.S. News 2026).

Recognized as a "Tree Campus USA" for many years in a row for its efforts in protecting urban ecosystems and providing green spaces for the student community.

California State University, Sacramento stands out for its diverse academic programs, including 151 bachelor's programs, 69 master's programs, 28 teaching certificates, and 5 doctoral programs. Some of the prominent majors most chosen by students include:

• Sales, Management, Marketing

• Health

• Social Sciences

• Psychology

• Technique

• Security, Legal, Fire Protection

• Family Science & Humanities

• Media, Journalism

• Entertainment, Sports, Kinesiology

• Biological Sciences and Biomedical Sciences

To study in the USA at California State University, Sacramento, international students need to meet the following admission requirements for each level of study:

Bachelor’s Degree

• Minimum GPA: 3.0/4.0

• English proficiency: IELTS 6.0 or equivalen

Master’s Degree

• GPA: 2.5 – 3.25/4.0, depending on the specific requirements of each program
  English proficiency: Minimum IELTS 6.5

Additional requirements:

• Some programs may require GMAT or GRE

• Statement of Purpose (Self-Introduction Letter) outlining academic goals and career aspirations

• Two letters of recommendation from faculty or direct supervisors

• Personal CV, summarizing academic background, work experience, and relevant activities
  Note: Admission requirements at California State University, Sacramento may vary depending on the program and major.

California State University, Sacramento is among the public universities with reasonable tuition fees compared to other universities in California. Below are the tuition and living expenses when studying at California State University, Sacramento:

• International students (Out-of-State): approximately $20,618 USD/year (~$20,600 USD) for tuition and fees, depending on the program.

• Estimated living expenses are approximately $24,000 – $27,000 USD/year, including housing (dormitory or off-campus), food, transportation, books, and basic personal expenses. (Costs may vary depending on individual needs).

At California State University, Sacramento, international students also have the opportunity to receive a partial tuition reduction through the International Student Fee Waiver program. This program can reduce tuition by approximately $396 per credit granted, depending on the number of credits and the student's eligibility criteria. This is a tuition fee waiver, not a direct cash payment.

To be eligible, students must be full-time enrolled and meet the university's scholarship criteria. Requirements and procedures may vary between faculties and academic years, so please check for updates from the university before applying.

Note: Contact IDP Study Abroad for accurate information on scholarship requirements and programs.

Choosing the Right School to Study in the U.S. with IDP

California State University, Sacramento is an ideal choice for those who are looking for an international standard learning environment, reasonable tuition fees and many attractive scholarship opportunities in the US. Not only outstanding with a diverse system of disciplines and modern facilities, the university also owns a vibrant community of international students, especially Vietnamese international students.

If you are cherishing your plan to study in the U.S. at California State University, Sacramento, or any other University, don't hesitate to contact IDP for more detailed advice.

With more than 55 years of experience in study abroad consulting and an office system covering all over Vietnam, IDP is ready to accompany you throughout the journey, from choosing a school, applying for scholarships and visas, to finding accommodation and registering for the IELTS test. In addition, IDP regularly organizes online study abroad seminars, giving you the opportunity to communicate directly with university representatives.

Let IDP help you make your dream of studying in the U.S. a reality today!

IDP's Study Abroad Hotline: 19006955