Cal State San Bernardino earned national recognition for its academic excellence, affordability and student success, standing out among the California State University (CSU) system’s impressive performance in Money.com’s 2025 list of the Best Colleges in America.

All 23 CSU campuses were rated four stars or higher in Money’s latest evaluation, with 15 campuses landing in the top 10 percent of colleges nationwide. Among them, CSUSB emerged as a five-star standout — one of only nine CSU campuses to receive Money’s highest distinction. The rating highlights CSUSB's growing reputation as a hub for academic innovation, economic and social mobility, and strong student outcomes.

“This ranking further establishes the CSU's standing as a national model for delivering an accessible, high-quality education that uplifts individuals, families and entire communities,” said CSU Chancellor Mildred García.

CSUSB earned a 4.5-star rating in 2024 and has now reached five-star status in 2025, further validating the university's commitment to excellence and equity. Money's ratings are based on 25 factors across three major categories: quality of education, affordability and outcomes, such as graduation rates and alumni earnings. This year, 732 out of more than 2,400 U.S. public and private nonprofit colleges were evaluated.

With an 87 percent admission rate, CSUSB is helping to redefine what student success looks like for historically underserved communities. This year, the College Futures Foundation's Four-Year California Mobility Index ranked CSUSB No. 6 in the state for providing students with the tools for lifelong success and moving them up the economic ladder. Additionally, the university was ranked 10th nationally in Third Way’s 2024 Economic Mobility Index, which evaluates colleges based on their ability to improve the economic futures of students.

CSUSB’s impact is consistently recognized across multiple national rankings. In The Wall Street Journal’s 2025 America’s Best Colleges, the university ranked third in the nation for social mobility. U.S. News & World Report also ranked CSUSB No. 12 nationally in its 2025 Top Performers on Social Mobility category and named it one of the top 100 public colleges in the U.S. — affirming the university’s value, accessibility and role in driving student success.

The recognitions reflect broader excellence across the CSU system, which received more five-star ratings from Money than any other public university system in the country. At less than $7,000 per year in undergraduate tuition, CSU offers one of the most affordable paths to a four-year degree in the nation. More than 80 percent of CSU students receive financial aid, and more than half graduate with no student loan debt.

For prospective students and families looking for high-quality education with real-world outcomes, Cal State San Bernardino stands as a powerful example of value, impact and opportunity in higher education.

To view the full Best Colleges in America list, visit the Money.com website.