Complete the A–G courses

The CSU requires 15 year-long college-prep courses, each with a C− or better. Updated guidance for Fall 2027 applicants affects Area E (language other than English) and Area F (visual and performing arts), so check the CSU’s freshman requirements page or ask your counselor.

Your GPA matters most

The CSU calculates your A–G GPA from all your A–G courses after 9th grade. California residents are eligible with a 2.50 or higher, and students with a 2.00 to 2.49 may still be considered based on other factors. Credit and No Credit grades aren’t counted in the calculation.

Some campuses and majors are impacted

When a campus or major gets more applications than it has space for, it’s called impacted and may require a higher GPA or extra criteria. Many campuses also give priority to students from their local area, so check each campus before you apply.

No SAT or ACT scores needed

The CSU has permanently stopped using SAT and ACT scores to decide admission eligibility.

One application, many campuses

Cal State Apply lets you apply to multiple CSUs with a single application. The fee is $70 per university, and California residents who qualify can have the fee waived for up to four campuses.