Cagayan State University Guide
Cagayan State University (CSU) is one of the largest and most comprehensive state universities in Northern Luzon, Philippines. With multiple campuses spread across Cagayan Province, CSU plays a major role in providing accessible, high-quality higher education to students in the Cagayan Valley region and beyond. Known for its programs in allied health sciences, criminology, engineering, teacher education, and agriculture, CSU continues to strengthen its academic reputation through research, industry partnerships, and community extension initiatives.
This guide provides a detailed and updated overview of Cagayan State University—covering its campuses, academic programs, admissions, tuition fees, student life, and essential tips for prospective students.
Overview of Cagayan State University
Cagayan State University is a public, government-funded institution established to serve the educational needs of the Cagayan Valley region. It operates eight major campuses located across the province:
Each campus has its own flagship programs and facilities, making CSU one of the most diversified higher education institutions in the region.
CSU is known for academic accessibility, offering low tuition rates under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, making it a preferred choice for many students from Northern Luzon.
Campuses and Their Specializations
CSU Andrews Campus
Located in Tuguegarao City, this is one of CSU’s most prominent campuses. It houses programs in:
-
Teacher Education
-
Business Administration
-
Hospitality Management
-
Arts and Sciences
Andrews Campus is also the administrative center and home to modern facilities such as auditoriums, laboratories, and student centers.
CSU Carig Campus
Carig Campus is popular for:
It is known for its research centers and provides hands-on training for students through modern laboratories and industry partnerships.
CSU Aparri Campus
Situated near coastal areas, Aparri Campus specializes in:
-
Fisheries
-
Marine Biology
-
Environmental Science
It serves as a training ground for students interested in maritime and coastal resource management.
CSU Lal-lo Campus
Lal-lo Campus offers programs primarily in:
-
Agriculture
-
Veterinary Technology
-
Rural Development
The campus features vast farmlands and demonstration areas for practical training.
CSU Piat Campus
This campus focuses on:
-
Agriculture
-
Agribusiness
-
Animal Science
Students benefit from strong linkages with local agricultural industries and government agencies.
CSU Sanchez-Mira Campus
This campus is known for:
-
Criminology
-
Public Administration
-
Social Sciences
It has expanded facilities to support practical law enforcement and public governance training.
CSU Lasam Campus
Offers access to:
-
Business Administration
-
Education
-
Information Technology
It serves students from the western part of the province.
CSU Solana Campus
Specializes in:
It also offers diploma and certificate courses for students pursuing technical careers.
Academic Programs
CSU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate programs across various fields. Some of the most popular programs include:
Allied Health Programs
These programs are housed mainly in the Carig Campus and are in high demand due to strong job prospects in healthcare.
Engineering and Technology
-
Civil Engineering
-
Electrical Engineering
-
Mechanical Engineering
-
Architecture
-
Information Technology
Engineering programs are equipped with updated laboratories and are among the most competitive in the region.
Education Programs
CSU is widely recognized for producing competent educators through its:
These programs are often housed in Andrews Campus.
Business and Hospitality
-
Business Administration
-
Accountancy
-
Tourism Management
-
Hospitality Management
These programs provide both theoretical knowledge and practical training through partnerships with local businesses and hotels.
Agriculture and Fisheries
As a major agricultural region, CSU offers strong programs in:
-
Agriculture
-
Agribusiness
-
Fisheries
-
Veterinary Technology
Students receive hands-on learning through research farms and coastal training facilities.
Graduate Studies
CSU also offers master’s and doctoral programs such as:
-
Master of Arts in Education
-
Master in Public Administration
-
Master of Science in Agriculture
-
Doctor of Philosophy in Education
-
Doctor of Public Administration
Admissions Guide
Admission Requirements
Requirements may vary by campus and program, but generally include:
-
Completed Application Form
-
High School Report Card (Form 138)
-
Certificate of Good Moral Character
-
Birth Certificate (PSA)
-
2×2 or passport-size photos
-
Entrance exam (if applicable)
Some campuses or programs require additional screening, especially for Nursing, Engineering, and Criminology.
Entrance Examinations
CSU may require an entrance exam depending on available slots and program competitiveness. Certain programs may also require qualifying tests or interviews.
Admission Timeline
Typical admission periods:
However, timelines may vary by campus.
Tuition Fees and Financial Assistance
Tuition Fees
Under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (RA 10931):
These typically range from ₱2,000 to ₱5,000 depending on the program.
Scholarships
CSU offers numerous financial assistance programs:
-
Academic Scholarships (for honor students)
-
DOST Scholarships (for STEM programs)
-
CHED Scholarships
-
LGU Scholarships
-
Private Foundation Grants
-
Student Assistant Programs
Students are encouraged to apply early as slots are competitive.
Campus Facilities and Student Life
Modern Academic Facilities
Campuses have:
Libraries and E-Learning Resources
CSU maintains well-equipped libraries with:
Dormitories and Housing Options
Some campuses offer on-campus dormitories. For others, affordable housing is available near the university, especially in Tuguegarao.
Student Organizations
Students can join:
These help students develop leadership, communication, and teamwork skills.
Sports and Recreation
Facilities for:
-
Basketball
-
Volleyball
-
Athletics
-
Gymnasiums
CSU regularly sends athletes to regional and national competitions.
Safety and Security
Each campus has security personnel and policies to ensure a safe learning environment for all students.
Tips for Prospective Students
Choose the Right Campus
Each campus has different strengths. For example:
-
Choose Carig for engineering and allied health.
-
Go to Andrews for education and business programs.
-
Select Aparri for fisheries.
Prepare Documents Early
Admission slots fill up quickly, especially for popular programs like Nursing, Criminology, and Engineering.
Explore Scholarship Options
CSU provides many financial support opportunities—apply early to maximize your chances.
Visit the Campus
If possible, visit the campus to get a feel for the environment, facilities, and community.
Use Student Support Services
Advising, counseling, tutoring, and career services can help you perform well academically and prepare for your future career.
Why Choose Cagayan State University?
-
Affordable, high-quality education
-
Modern facilities for hands-on training
-
Wide range of program offerings
-
Strong regional presence with eight campuses
-
Research and community engagement
-
Supportive learning environment
-
Growing academic reputation
CSU is a top choice for students seeking accessible and quality education in Northern Luzon.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is Cagayan State University known for?
Cagayan State University (CSU) is known for offering accessible and affordable higher education in Northern Luzon through its multiple campuses across Cagayan Province. It is especially recognized for strong programs in teacher education, engineering, agriculture, fisheries, business, information technology, criminology, and allied health sciences. CSU also has a growing reputation in research, community extension projects, and industry partnerships that support regional development.
How many campuses does Cagayan State University have and where are they located?
CSU has eight major campuses located in different parts of Cagayan Province: Andrews and Carig Campuses in Tuguegarao City, and campuses in Aparri, Lal-lo, Lasam, Piat, Sanchez-Mira, and Solana. Each campus has its own flagship programs and facilities. Tuguegarao-based campuses are usually preferred by students who want access to more urban amenities, while the other campuses serve more rural communities.
Which CSU campus should I choose for my program?
Your choice of campus should depend on your preferred program. For education, business, and hospitality management, Andrews Campus is a strong option. For engineering, architecture, information technology, and allied health programs, many students choose Carig Campus. Aparri is ideal for fisheries and marine-related courses, while Lal-lo and Piat are best for agriculture and agribusiness. Sanchez-Mira is popular for criminology and public administration, and Solana is known for industrial and technical programs.
Is tuition really free at Cagayan State University?
Yes, undergraduate students at CSU benefit from the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (RA 10931), which covers tuition and other instructional fees in state universities. However, students still need to pay some miscellaneous charges such as laboratory fees, student organization dues, and other campus-specific fees. These costs are generally much lower than in private institutions, making CSU a very budget-friendly option for many families.
What are the typical admission requirements for new students?
While requirements may vary slightly by campus and program, most applicants must submit a completed application form, high school report card (Form 138), certificate of good moral character, PSA birth certificate, and ID photos. Some programs, especially in health sciences, engineering, and criminology, may require an entrance examination, qualifying test, or interview. International or transferee applicants may need to provide additional documents for evaluation.
Does Cagayan State University require an entrance exam?
Certain CSU campuses and programs administer an entrance exam, especially if the number of applicants exceeds available slots. Competitive programs like Nursing, Medical Laboratory Science, Engineering, and Criminology often use exams or qualifying tests to screen applicants. It is important to check the specific campus or program’s guidelines each admission cycle, because policies may change based on demand, capacity, and national regulations.
When is the usual application and enrollment period at CSU?
In general, applications at Cagayan State University open around April to June, followed by enrollment in July or early August. Classes typically begin in August, aligning with the usual academic calendar of Philippine state universities. However, exact dates can differ by campus or may be adjusted due to national directives or local conditions, so applicants should follow official announcements from their chosen CSU campus.
Are there scholarships and financial aid programs for students?
Yes, CSU offers various scholarships and financial assistance options. These include academic scholarships for honor students, government-funded DOST and CHED scholarships, grants from local government units (LGUs), and assistance from private foundations. In addition, some students work as student assistants in offices or libraries to earn allowances. Because most scholarships have limited slots, it is important to apply early and maintain good academic standing.
What are student life and campus facilities like at CSU?
Student life at CSU is generally active and community-oriented. Campuses have classrooms, laboratories, computer centers, libraries, and sports facilities that support both academic and extracurricular activities. Students can join academic clubs, performing arts groups, student councils, and sports teams. The environment varies by campus: Tuguegarao campuses feel more urban and busy, while other campuses offer a quieter, more rural setting with closer community ties and more open spaces.
Is there housing or dormitory accommodation available for students?
Some CSU campuses provide on-campus dormitories or student housing, usually at lower cost than private boarding houses. Where dorms are limited or unavailable, many students rent rooms, apartments, or boarding houses near the campus. Tuguegarao City, for example, has a wide range of options for different budgets. It is advisable to inquire early, especially for popular campuses, so you can secure safe, convenient, and affordable accommodation.
Can CSU graduates easily find jobs after graduation?
Employment outcomes depend on the program, individual performance, and the job market, but many CSU graduates successfully enter professions in education, government service, engineering, healthcare, business, agriculture, fisheries, and information technology. CSU’s strong regional reputation and alignment with local industry needs support graduates in finding work, particularly in the Cagayan Valley region. Participating in internships, research projects, and student organizations can further improve employability.
How can I get official information and updates about Cagayan State University?
The most reliable information about CSU comes from its official channels, such as the university’s main website, verified social media pages, and direct communication from campus offices. For admission and program details, it is best to contact the registrar or guidance office of your chosen campus. Avoid relying solely on unofficial posts or hearsay, and always double-check announcements such as exam schedules, enrollment dates, and scholarship opportunities from official CSU sources.
