Cal State LA Acceptance Rate and Admission Requirements

California State University-Los Angeles is not selective in its admission process. The acceptance rate of California State University-Los Angeles (Cal State LA) is 90.54%, meaning that approximately 91 out of every 100 applicants are admitted.

Although the acceptance rate is high, you still need to convince the admission staff that you are both mentally and physically fit for the course of studies. More importantly, your GPA, class performance, SAT/ACT scores, and IB or AP courses can help your application stand out. If you did not perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths in other areas, as Cal State LA is not very strict in its admissions process, so improving other areas will help you secure admission.

You need to perform well in academics and other activities. However, since the acceptance rate is above 50%, you still have a chance even if your GPA is not excellent. You can compensate for a lower GPA by scoring high on the SAT, ACT, and taking IB or AP courses.

A well-written letter of recommendation, participation in co-curricular and extracurricular activities, and strong interpersonal communication skills can enhance your chances of admission.

California State University-Los Angeles Admission Requirements

Cal State LA GPA Requirement

The average GPA of the admitted students at Cal State LA is 3.2. This indicates that Cal State LA is selective in terms of GPA. (Most schools report a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some may use unweighted GPA. For exact information, contact the school admission staff.)

With an average GPA of 3.2, Cal State LA requires you to be above average in your class. You need to score more A's than B's in your classes to have a good chance of admission. Additionally, you must take AP or IB courses to demonstrate your academic ability, particularly in areas related to your chosen course of study. For example, if you're planning a career in engineering or IT, courses related to mathematics, calculus, and physics will help.

If your GPA is less than 3.2 and higher than 2.9, you need higher SAT or ACT scores to compensate. You need a minimum of 2.8 GPA to secure admission at Cal State LA. Below this, your chances of admission will be very slim.

Can I Get Into Cal State LA Without SAT Or ACT?

California State University-Los Angeles does not require admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process and does not recommend that students provide these scores. However, it is better to submit your test scores if you have performed well. This gives an extra opportunity to showcase your skills and competencies, potentially improving your chances of admission. Plan early and appear in upcoming SAT/ACT tests. Check the test schedule and plan accordingly. It is advisable to take the test multiple times unless you score well above the average SAT/ACT scores of admitted students, as shown below. Normally, students may take the test 4 to 5 times to improve their scores. But if your score is below the national or state average, it may be better not to submit it, as it could negatively impact your application.

California State University-Los Angeles (Cal State LA) SAT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for SAT and ACT testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them. The test score policy is already mentioned.

Cal State LA Profile

Name: California State University-Los Angeles (Cal State LA)

City: Los Angeles

URL: https://www.calstatela.edu/

State: California

Type: Public

Zip: 90032-8506

Campus: Main

Accredited by: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission (WASCSR)

How Much Does a Degree from Cal State LA Cost?

The average annual cost of a degree at California State University-Los Angeles is USD: 13712. Since most students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants, the average annual net price a student has to pay at California State University-Los Angeles is USD: 2037

How Can I Get a Scholarship?

66.16% of the students receive Pell Grants, and 17.67% receive federal grants. So, it is a wise choice to attend Cal State LA and apply for Pell or federal loan grants.

At California State University-Los Angeles, you should have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Be sure to fill out the FAFSA application form as early as possible and list Cal State LA as your choice on the form.

How Much Does a Cal State LA Graduate Earn?

The average annual salary of a Cal State LA graduate 4-6 years after graduation is USD 54219. On average, a Cal State LA graduate earns this amount 10 years after enrollment (4-6 years after graduation).

The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is USD 36,834.

Cal State LA Degree Programs

California State University-Los Angeles offers following degree programs.

Bachelor Programs

Full list of All degree programs offered by California State University-Los Angeles.

Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard, US Department of Education, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.