CSUMB gets high praise again from Money magazine

Cal State Monterey Bay has maintained its excellent rating in Money magazine’s Best Colleges 2026 report, released June 23. For the fourth year running, CSUMB received 4.5 out of a possible five stars.

CSUMB was among 15 CSUs that received the same rating, including such schools as Cal Polys San Luis Obispo and Pomona, and CSUs  Fullerton, Sacramento and San Diego. 

Money has consistently rewarded the California State University system with high ratings and, last year, deemed it the best public university system in the country, in large part due to it

“We’re pleased that Money magazine continues to recognize Cal State Monterey Bay among the nation’s best colleges,” said Andrew Lawson, provost and vice president of Academic Affairs and the university’s executive in charge. “This 4.5-star rating reflects our commitment to supporting students from all backgrounds, creating clear pathways to meaningful careers and helping graduates build the skills they need to thrive." 

In addition to recognizing CSUMB’s prime seaside location, Money said the campus “scores high marks for being both accessible and affordable.” It also said, “About 70% of undergraduate students receive scholarships or grants, and a Monterey Bay degree sets them up for success, with the university ranking in the top 25% for socioeconomic mobility of the schools Money analyzed.”