California State University-Northridge Acceptance Rate, GPA and Admission Requirements

California State University-Northridge is not selective in its admission process. The acceptance rate of California State University-Northridge (CSUN) is 88.1%, meaning that approximately 88 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 CSUN 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-Northridge Admission Requirements

CSUN GPA Requirement

The average GPA of the admitted students at CSUN is 3.2. This indicates that CSUN 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, CSUN 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 CSUN. Below this, your chances of admission will be very slim.

Can I Get Into CSUN Without SAT Or ACT?

California State University-Northridge 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-Northridge (CSUN) 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.



CSUN Profile

Name: California State University-Northridge (CSUN)

City: Northridge

URL: https://www.csun.edu/

State: California

Type: Public

Zip: 91330

Campus: Main

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


How Much Does a Degree from CSUN Cost?

The average annual cost of a degree at California State University-Northridge is USD: 19641. Since most students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants, the average annual net price a student has to pay at California State University-Northridge is USD: 7944

How Can I Get a Scholarship?

56.66% of the students receive Pell Grants, and 21.36% receive federal grants. So, it is a wise choice to attend CSUN and apply for Pell or federal loan grants.

At California State University-Northridge, 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 CSUN as your choice on the form.

How Much Does a CSUN Graduate Earn?

The average annual salary of a CSUN graduate 4-6 years after graduation is USD 56375. On average, a CSUN 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.



CSUN Degree Programs

California State University-Northridge offers following degree programs.


Bachelor Programs


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

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.

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