Choose the Right CSUs Based on Your GPA
Applying to California State Universities? With 22 campuses and a $70 application fee per school, knowing which CSUs match your GPA can save money and increase your acceptance chances.
CSU admissions are straightforward—no essays, no recommendations, just your GPA. Students don't get the school they want; they get the school they earn and want.
Apply to Your Area School First
California has "area impaction," meaning it's easier to get into CSUs near your high school (not just where you live). Your area school accepts lower GPAs and offers the most affordable option—living at home or nearby.
GPA-Based School Selection
2.4 - 2.7 GPA:
Avoid: San Jose State, Cal Poly SLO, Cal State LA (unless it's your area school), Fresno, Fullerton, Northridge, Long Beach, San Diego State
Apply cautiously: Sacramento, Monterey Bay, Cal Poly Pomona, San Bernardino, San Marcos
Strong choices: Dominguez Hills, CSU Bakersfield, Sonoma State, Stanislaus, Channel Islands, East Bay
2.8 - 3.3 GPA:
More green-light options open up
Still avoid Cal Poly SLO, Long Beach, and San Diego State
All previously mentioned schools become easier admits
3.4 - 3.6 GPA:
Most CSUs are now accessible
You have a chance at Long Beach and San Diego State
Cal Poly SLO remains highly competitive
3.7+ GPA:
Apply to any CSU with confidence
Even the most selective schools are within reach
Top Recommendations for Students with Lower GPAs
CSU Bakersfield and Sonoma State stand out for their excellent student support programs, especially for inner-city students. Bakersfield is about 1 hour 45 minutes from LA—far enough to be away from home, affordable, and offers great academic support.
If applying to four schools with limited resources, balance your choices: include at least two "green light" schools where admission is likely, and take calculated risks on one or two reach schools.
Download the full CSU GPA guide here to see which schools match your GPA level.
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