Founded in 1957, California State University-Fullerton. is a Public college. Located in California, which is a city setting in California, the campus itself is Suburban. The campus is home to 34,576 full time undergraduate students, and 5,659 full time graduate students.
The California State University-Fullerton Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 25:1. There are 1016 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at California State University-Fullerton include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
48%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
55
SAT Range
920-1120
ACT Range
19-24
Admissions at CSUF are considered More Selective, with ,68% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 10 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
92% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 55% were in the top quarter, and 16% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at California State University-Fullerton.
144 Students rated on-campus housing 3.4 stars. 18 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
149 Students rated off-campus housing 3.3 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
239 Students rated campus food 3.5 stars. 21 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
246 Students rated campus facilities 4.2 stars. 39 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
245 Students rated class size 3.9 stars. 28 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
246 Students rated school activities 3.8 stars. 28 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
246 Students rated local services 4.2 stars. 47 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
246 Students rated academics 4.1 stars. 42 % gave the school a 5.0.
California State University-Fullerton REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of California State University-Fullerton?
118 Students rated California State University-Fullerton
Daisy
Cal State Fullerton is one of the best public schools in Orange County. Throughout my college journey, I have encountered the best people and built connections in different parts of Orange County. I am proud to have come to this school and amazed by the resources I have been given to continue pursuing my educational journey.
Luis
I believe Cal State University of Fullerton is a beautiful school built satisfactory for students. I believe improvements can be made to housing on campus considering review on TikTok show the showering unit is outside. I also think it's nice the campus has many delicious restaurants and a bookstore with a variety of materials for everyone on campus!
Martin
I'd describe California State University-Fullerton as a thriving institution that offers a diverse range of both academic programs and opportunities for students. It's a vibrant campus with dedicated faculty and commitment to student success which makes it an excellent choice for higher education.
Alondra
I think CSUF is a great school, it's pretty diverse, and everyone is friendly and respectful. The professors are very kind and understanding, and the courses offered are amazing. The social life is also great. The clubs we have on campus are exciting and fun.
Jaymi
I love CSUF. They answer all my questions. However, it can be hard to get someone on the phone, but when you do they help. Advisors are very knowledgeable. I have met some very good friends there and also got to go to school with my sister. Overall, I have enjoyed my time.
celest
Honestly I love the campus! The staff are very helpful! Although the pandemic hit and its been kinda hard teaching people (not Professor just the departments) but I love the environment. Worth the money I pay. I learned so much in Fullerton. Every professor I had cares about their student success
Sumin
It's not the best but it's a decent school. It could be a lot better though. Most of the teachers are very helpful and communicate very well with their students but there are some downright, awful teachers that don't care about their students and barely teach anything at all. The campus is okay. Parking is the worst.
Heather
I believe this is a great school that allows students to fulfill their dreams. There are countless opportunities to better ones self and make their mark and the school is very supportive in making students experience worthwhile. The only negative thing I can express is that they are not very efficient in reviewing petitions many of which are due to errors made by the college itself.
Amanda
Cal State Fullerton is sort of a meh school in my opinion, but it really is what you make of it. If you enjoy a huge population of students, then more power to you. I strongly recommend joining the Honors Program for priority registration, small class sizes, and free printing.
Yasen
Corrupt faculty members with the ideology of "You scratch my back, I scratch yours'." They protect each others backs and have no trust in students. I had a professor in the math department reporting a false claim through the student conducts office just to cover up what I had against him which I made to the deans office by removing my credibility to "save" his "job or promotion he had" exact quote from the deans office. I went through the legal process to fight his claim against me to which I was clueless enough that I didn't know at the time that the deans office, HOD and the professor having a meeting without hearing my side of the story and when I reported it to the academic board, I kept getting excuses such as "You didn't attach the claims, now you cant submit another appeal with us." I reported another case to them linking to the same professor to which they replied with "We still have the professors back because he is credible." I understood if you had a degree, you are credible
Chris
I think that CSUF is an amazing school. Most students are very like-minded and focused on their studies. There are many opportunities that are given to you as a student to succeed and thrive in whatever field you decide to major in. Clubs, Internships, and helpful staff/faculty are all ways that students get to really engage with their education and learn more about their future fields. There are also many social events, like painting classes here and there or even video game tournaments, to get students to get involved with their peers as well as create a friendly communal environment. There is plenty to do on campus, many places to eat and shop, as well as a variety of great study areas that are prepped for those long nights or even quick naps between the busy hours of one's day. So if you are considering CSUF, I give it 1,000,000 thumbs up (if I had that many)! ;)
My-Tran
Generally California State University of Fullerton is an ordinary campus. The facilities are modern and updated, although there are some hiccups here and there such as having one or two buildings being fairly outdated to the point the facilities are in conflict of quality. Academics wise, it is a hit or miss, since each program or major department on campus has different quality in professors. I have been fortunate enough to have decent professors with sufficient class sizes as well.
Noemy
Although I was uncertain about attending this university, It has been one of the best experiences I have ever had. This university is extremely supportive and has a positive environment. I am happy to be attending and grateful for the connections and opportunities it has placed on my journey to success.
kezia
Overall, I think California State University, Fullerton is a great campus to be a part of. Not only does Fullerton have a pretty campus, but it’s located strategically near business areas and downtown Fullerton. I’ve heard that Fullerton excels in their Art/Animation as well as their Business programs.
Brandon
I honestly really like it here! The campus is a super nice place to be and the people here are great. The whole experience here is definitely what you make of it! I've heard opinions of people absolutely loving this school and others dread it but it all depends on how far you're willing to put yourself out there and socialize.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for California State University-Fullerton is 48%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
As a senior in high school I was well rounded, I played sports, recieved a perfect grade point average and was in a few clubs. I thought that I was well prepared to go to college and start playing College soccer. I was right in some ways and wrong in others. I had no problem fitting right in. That was until I had to quit playing the sport I love because of an injured knee and financial problems. On top of that, my parents decided to get a divorce and without the typical routine of school and soccer that I had always known, I felt alone and a failure. If I could go back to highschool and tell myself one thing it would be to never give up hope and to never stop trying. I probably would have laughed since I had never quit anything and I never gave up. I've learned that things can change in an instant and that I have to adjust quickly in life to keep up and even if I stubble occasionally I can always get back and try again. I'm never a failure until I chose to stay down and stop fighting.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
The worst thing about Cal State Fullerton is parking. Although, there are three parking garages there still is not enough spaces for all the students. During prominent hours you have to get to school very early in order to get a spot.
Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.
Being onboard and on this campus I knew my journey lied ahead, where I had the resources and supporters to guide me through my success, knowing that this university had grabbed my attention from the start now it was just up to me to take advantage of everything they had to offer to make my dream careers into a reality.
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
This student body puts a big emphasis on getting involved on campus whether it is in a club, student government, or on campus job. My lack of involvement in high school led me to want to change my ways in college and start making a difference. Since starting colege I have now become a campus tour guide and am treasurer of the Student Alumni Association. It has led me to become a stronger student leader and get other students the same excitement I have about going to California State University Fullerton.
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?
The traffic in the surrounding freeways and main streets is awful in the morning, and rush hour in the afternoon is hell. It's advisable to get to school early, even if you don't have a class at that time; parking is terrible, even though they've tried to accomodate for the students with three parking structures.
What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?
Before attending college I wish I would have known how much everyone parties and how easy it is for them to suck you in on the weekends. It is okay to party sometimes on the weekends. Don't get me wrong, however all the time is, one not healthy and two doesn't not lead in the right career path. Not to mention too much drinking is really bad for you.
My school is known for its socially active lifestyle. Students are constantly rallying for what they believe in by presentations in the quad area and by educating other students on the subject. There are many fun things to do while on campus as well, such as bowling, billiards, and karoake.
Someone who enjoys a big campus with a lot of people and a lot of activities going on should attend this school. People wanting to come here should like the variety of students this campus provides and should like the location because it is around. There is a vast amount of things to do on and off campus because of the busy city of Fullerton.
What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?
At Cal State Fullerton I greatly appreciate the amount of respect between the professors and the students. Such a bond is created between the student sand teachers that it is very probable and likely that I will reach out to them in times of confusion even after graduation passes. They are always willing to assist a student with just about anything but they are also strict and they demand through their charisma and enthusiasm that their students be dedicated and self assured that success is within reach and obtainable. I love the environment that this creates, one filled with respect.
What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?
The stereotype of students at Cal State Fullerton is that they are all commuters who aren't involved on campus and don't really socialize much. This isn't actually the case. There are resident halls on campus that house up to 2000 students, and many diverse organizations and clubs on campus that students get really involved in. From academics, to sports and hobbies, Cal State Fullerton has some form of club that would interest you. While it is true that many students do commute, there are also lots of students who live either on campus or in the apartments near campus, and get involved with extracurricular activities on campus.
The majority of the professors that I took know my name. My favorite class is my biology class where I get to learn more about the world around me and see how things revolve around the world of biology. My least favorite class would have to be my math class because I am not the best at math and I am not as interested in math as I am for biology. The students that I know study every day so that they can review over material and understand it for the upcoming exams. Class participation is very common among all of my classes where the professors encourage students to participate. Students do have intellectual conversations outside of class especially if it is a big concept that we just learned. Some of the students are competitive but the majority of us try to form big study groups to help one another if they are having trouble with a particular problem. The most unique class I have taken is my abnormal psychology class where I learned about many cognitive disorders that could affect a person's life. I am a biology major and as a biology major I have to study quite a bit but I also get to learn about many different types of things that are useful in our daily lives. The biology department is a good, strong department where faculty members are very nice and helpful. I spend some time with my professors outside of class, such as going to their office hours or just seeing them walk by as I go to class. I like the school's academic requirements because they encompass all the things the students need to go where they want to go such as go directly into the work force or go to graduate school. The education at this school is geared more toward learning for its own sake because it allows for students to be aware of other options after college rather than just going straight into the work force.
What are the most popular student activities/groups?
I'm a bookworm, so my most popular activity was studying. I found the library a great place to study. It is quiet and has may resources at hand for further exploration into topics that may interest a student.
I really enjoy going to CSUF, I rarely come across professors that I dislike. And, when such a thing happens, I end up changing my mind within the first quarter of the semester. I love the overall friendliness of the staff and students. There are so many organizations that you can be a part of. There really is something for everyone. The only thing that I have to complain about would probably be parking. It is a pretty big hassle sometimes. But, you could definitely plan your classes around it or just arrive on campus a bit earlier to ensure you make it to class on time. Parking far just means some built in exercise to your day!
What is the stereotype of students at your school?
CSUF is known as a commuter school. Students go to class (most of the time) and go directly home. Many people do not take the time to find out how to get invovled with the great organizations on campus.
Is the stereotype of students at your school accurate?
For the most part these stereotypes are true. After 3pm the campus is "empty." With the new Student Recreation Center there is an incentive for students to stay longer. There are other organizations on campus funded by ASI that students should explore.
Where is the best place to get work done on campus?
The Library is PERFECT! After that, if you don't mind noise, the Titan Student Union is a good place to go. Mihalo Hall (the business building) lobby is a nice study area as well.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
74% of students attending California State University-Fullerton receive some sort of financial aid.
46% were awarded federal grants.31%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.