4.5
Out of 5 stars
Money magazine’s 2026 Best Colleges in America survey noted CSUMB “scores high marks for being both accessible and affordable" and “a Monterey Bay degree sets [students] up for success."
Rankings and Recognition
Cal State Monterey Bay is proud to be ranked and recognized by U.S. News & World Report, Money, Forbes, and the Wall Street Journal in areas like social mobility, affordability, and accessibility.
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How We Stand Out
A Cal State Monterey Bay education provides a lifetime of value.
Rising in the Ranks Together
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“Cal State Monterey Bay's national recognition reflects this community's commitment to academic excellence, expanding opportunity and student success. As a first-generation college graduate, I am proud to help carry that mission forward.”
Related News
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The university repeated a fourth-place ranking from last year.
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The ranking places CSUMB among the top universities in the nation
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For the fourth year in a row, CSUMB received a 4.5-star rating.