Unigo Top Student Rated School

California State University-Northridge

18111 Nordhoff St

Northridge, CA 91330

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About California State University-Northridge

Founded in 1958, California State University-Northridge. is a Public college. Located in California, which is a city setting in California, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 35,756 full time undergraduate students, and 4,160 full time graduate students.

The California State University-Northridge Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 26:1. There are 925 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at California State University-Northridge include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.

Quick Facts

Acceptance Rate48%
Application Deadline
Application Fee55
SAT Range800-1030
ACT Range16-23

Admissions at CSUN are considered More Selective, with ,106% of all applicants being admitted.

In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 14 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.

0% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 0% were in the top quarter, and 0% 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-Northridge.

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  • How would you rate on-campus housing?

    251 Students rated on-campus housing 3.5 stars. 19 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate off-campus housing?

    233 Students rated off-campus housing 3.3 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate campus food?

    340 Students rated campus food 3.7 stars. 25 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate campus facilities?

    348 Students rated campus facilities 4.2 stars. 44 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate class size?

    348 Students rated class size 3.8 stars. 25 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate school activities?

    347 Students rated school activities 3.8 stars. 31 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate local services?

    353 Students rated local services 4.2 stars. 48 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate academics?

    350 Students rated academics 4 stars. 39 % gave the school a 5.0.

California State University-Northridge REVIEWS

What's your overall opinion of California State University-Northridge?

165 Students rated California State University-Northridge

Victoria
Prospective04/14/2025

I am interested in going to CSUN because from what i’ve seen, it seems like a school that I would enjoy being at. For starters, I love how open and much nature there is on campus. I love looking at trees and being surrounded by flowers and crash and CSUN has that. Secondly, there is a lot of things on campus. They have pools, an open gym, nice food spots, and many more things. And the community seems so amazing. Even tho I am very introverted, I feel like I can see myself bonding with people. They also have what I’m passionate about; Radiologic Science. So its also a win for me!

Carissa
04/13/2025

If you like inclusivity, a strong campus community, and the smell of pupusas on Tuesday afternoons, then CSUN is the place for you. The most valuable aspect of CSUN is that it celebrates student identities and that's reflected in the events on campus. From queer and deaf coffee talks, a veteran's resource center, video game nights, sports events and a weekly farmer's market on Tuesdays with the most delicious foods, there is something for everyone on campus. This is one of the most diverse campuses in the nation, and the community here is my favorite thing about CSUN.

Isaac
Prospective04/12/2025

I'm interested in attending California State University-Northridge because I find the school the most convenient. Why do I find it convenient to attend? Well, I find it convenient because the tuition is cheaper than in other universities, and the school happens to be very close to the apartment in which I live with my beloved mother. Also, I happen to like the layout of the campus.

LC
Prospective04/06/2025

I will be attending California State University-Northridge in the fall playing baseball. Here are several reason why I chose CSUN and what attracted me. 1. Strong Athletic Program: CSUN has a respected Division 1 baseball program that competes in the Big West Conference. The school offers excellent facilities, coaching staff, and opportunities to grow and compete at a high level, making it an exciting place for any serious athlete. 2. Academic Support for Athletes: As a student-athlete, you’ll have access to resources like academic advising, tutoring, and study halls tailored to help you succeed in both school and sports. Balancing baseball and a 4.4 GPA shows you're already great at this, and CSUN will help you keep that momentum. 3. Location, Location, Location: Situated in the San Fernando Valley, CSUN is close to Los Angeles, which offers countless opportunities—whether it’s internships, career networking, entertainment, or just exploring city life. Plus, the weather is basically perfect for baseball year-round. 4. Campus Life and Diversity: CSUN is known for its diverse and welcoming student body. The campus has a laid-back but driven vibe, with lots of clubs, organizations, and events to get involved in when you're not on the field. 5. Quality Education with Practical Programs: CSUN has strong programs in business, kinesiology, engineering, film, and many other fields. The school focuses on hands-on learning, so whatever you choose to study, you'll be applying your knowledge in real-world ways. 6. Affordable and Accessible: Compared to many universities, CSUN offers a quality education at a more affordable cost—especially helpful since you're covering apartment and living expenses. That means less financial stress and more focus on your goals.

Noah
Prospective04/05/2025

I would rate Northridge 5 stars in total, after visi

Evelyn
Prospective04/02/2025

its awesome

Viviann
11/24/2024

It was my first year as a transfer student at California State University Northridge, but what I enjoyed was engaging with several different communities, learning about the different cultural events that took place on school campus, and being able to network and create connections with several different mentors, advisors, and educators throughout the semester, I learned to always connect with as many individuals as I can and gain information from anybody

Maria
07/30/2024

A great campus with a variety of places for students to go. Whether that be food, sports, academics, or beautiful sights to study. I find myself enjoying the scenery while doing work and it honestly makes the work easier. Having a nice environment for sure impacts your learning state and desire to learn in general.

Viviana
07/24/2024

I believe this school deserves more credit, there are plenty of classes and opportunities to succeed. I truly believe as long as you put in your time and effort, anyone can succeed in their classes. There are plenty of areas to work, relax and destress from the everyday struggles students face. There is also many options for those who need extra help, whether it is in their academics or personal life. I highly recommend California State University Northridge to those who want a great education but do not want to spend more than what they have.

Damian
03/30/2023

Based on the visit I believe that California State University Northridge is a great college to attend someday. The first reason why is because the professors are available when you need help. The second why is because the campus has a great Political Science program. The third reason why is because at California State University Northridge you use a practical apporach to learning in classes. The fourth and final reason why is because the campus has a really great library, which is available to everyone.

Maya
01/31/2023

CSUN has a lot of opportunities for students in a variety of fields, interests, and departments. Arts, sports, academics, creative outlets, mental health services, and so much more are readily available to students. The campus is very safe to me, there are always security and police patrolling the area, and emergency services are available almost everywhere on the campus. It's a lovely school with lovely opportunities, if you're ready to take advantage of them!

Nevaeh
01/16/2023

I like my school. It may not be the best school compared to the others in the area but that doesn't bother me. We have great professors and faculty that make the experience worthwhile. It's up to each student individually to make the most of the social aspects.

Elijah
05/17/2022

I enjoy California State University-Northridge. It is a pretty big campus, but the facilities are always nicely kept and student life is great. I would like to note that campus food there is not always accessible, and they seem to end early and don't give students who have night classes a chance to eat there after class. Also, parking there can be challenging, and the prices to pay for parking there seem really high. Other than that, it is a pretty good university.

Idaly
12/15/2021

CSUN has provided me opportunities I never had access to. My personal favorite is the access to academic improvement resources. Across campus, we have centers for research, essay and writing skill development, as well as focused areas of learning. It emphasizes academics without sacrificing personal lives of students.

Dagoberto
07/14/2021

So far it is well and a bit more organized than my last university. The organization of the administration has been extremely well to me when it has come to getting prepared for the credential program. My only problem is that it may take some time to receive vital information but that id due to short staff because of the pandemic.

California State University-Northridge FAQS

  1. What is the Acceptance Rate at California State University-Northridge?

    The fall 2020 acceptance rate for California State University-Northridge is 48%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.

  2. What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

    Go for some place that you will be happy.

    Read all 362 answers
  3. Describe the students at your school.

    My classmates tend to be funny, intelligent (for the most part), diverse, considerate, helpful, and goal oriented.

    Read all 84 answers
  4. Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.

    CSUN tries to push for eco-friendliness, has many events to promote social connection between fellow Matadors that may be new or want to meet new people, the campus itself is generally well kept and clean, and overall its administration and staff are helpful; however trying to get the desired schedule when signing up for a semester is not possible until one has many units under their belt so always make sure to make a second and third back up schedules.

    Read all 78 answers
  5. What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?

    there happens to be nothing about my school that might be bad, because everything is in good order, yet the only thing is as said earlier the lines that cause frustruation but that is basically it, other than that my school is in good standing!

    Read all 76 answers
  6. What's unique about your campus?

    Its a commuter school but when everyone is around its a great feel.

    Read all 65 answers
  7. Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!

    i dont know

    Read all 64 answers
  8. What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?

    The campus, the amazing professors and the state of the art equipment that our school has. The combination of these things provide us with the best education possible that will halp prepare us for our future.

    Read all 57 answers
  9. What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?

    I wish I would have know how quickly classes become closed and you dont have a chance to sign up for it.

    Read all 55 answers
  10. What kind of person should not attend this school?

    I believe everyone should attend school, however without a healthy motivation, one will not get too far.

    Read all 50 answers
  11. What kind of person should attend this school?

    Anyone can attend CSUN-from highschool graduates to working adults that want to complete their education. I had classmates that turned down scholarships from other colleges/universities in order to attend CSUN. Why pay more for a great quality education, when you don't have to. In the end, it only matters what you do and how you apply the things you learned in school.

    Read all 49 answers
  12. What's the most frustrating thing about your school?

    Some professors are rude, when you are trying to learn the whole college experience.

    Read all 44 answers
  13. Describe your favorite campus traditions.

    The Best University in the Valley.

    Read all 40 answers
  14. What are the academics like at your school?

    All my professors know my name because I am active and sit in front of the class. There are many professors that know everyone's name in the class. My favorite class is my marketing class. My professor is very intelligent. He teaches at both CSUN and UCLA and has awesome marketing knowledge and experience. My least favorite is geology just because I am not a big science person. I have taken SO many interesting classes, but a really interesting one I took my freshman year was Music in Film. I learned a lot in my class that made me appreciate the work that goes into making a film. I love my major and my department is also very helpful with guiding their students. CSUN believes in getting job experience it is a requirement in my major that I have an internship. The internship at the school is so helpful! He helped me get my internship this summer at NBCUniversal.

    Read all 27 answers
  15. What is your overall opinion of this school?

    The best thing about CSUN is the hands on learning experience that you get while attending school. CSUN's business school focuses on team work because that is how the business world is currently, which is very effective and useful. I would like there to be a stronger alumni network. CSUN is the perfect size! You get the University feel when you are walking around, I truly love it. I spend most of my time at the business school and Arbor Grill.

    Read all 24 answers
  16. What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?

    I haven't really heard any stereotypes about the school as a whole, but there are various things happening with various groups of people.

    Read all 20 answers
  17. What are the most popular student activities/groups?

    There is very awesome gym (they call it the SRC), and also the library is the place to go during school hours. The school is like a city, there are so many stuff that you will find your activity.

    Read all 16 answers
  18. Why did you decide to go to this school?

    Great campus and their involvement in the community.

    Read all 5 answers
  19. What is the stereotype of students at your school?

    There are a lot of stereotypes about CSUN and CSUN students, and some of them may actually be true. As for precisely what, I can't recall any right now.

    Read all 4 answers
  20. Is the stereotype of students at your school accurate?

    NO! There are so many things to do here, especially if you are part of the greek system. There are tons of students who always want to have a good time.

    Read all 4 answers
  21. Where is the best place to get work done on campus?

    Oviatt Library!!!! By far the best choice, with 5 floors, one being underground( more for classes) but 4 floors made just for study, filled with every book,media,picture you need. Study tables, private study rooms for two or more with huge chalk boards or dry boards made perfectly for group studying or meetings. Its amazing, the service is great, if you forgot to bring your book, they have a reserved section that allows you to check out a book for a couple hours to get the work done. AMAZING.

    Read all 4 answers

Student Body

Students

54%

female

46%

male

35,756

Total Undergrad Enrollment

4,160

Total Grad Students

1%

Out-Of-State

97%

In-State

2%

International

Organizations

N/A

Student Organizations

6

Fraternities

12

Sororities

Housing

Yes

On-Campus Housing

8%

of students living on campus

Student Diversity

% American Indian/Alaskan Native
N/A
% Asian/Pacific Islander
11%
% Black or African-American
5%
% Hispanic/Latino
46%
% White or Caucasian
22%

TUITION & AID

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.

83% of students attending California State University-Northridge receive some sort of financial aid. 63% were awarded federal grants.35%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.

Cost Out of State

$17,747

Tuition and fees(Out of state)

$1,600

Books and Supplies

$10,272

Room and Board

29,619

Total On Campus

Actual Cost By Income Level(W/Financial Aid)

Family Income
Cost
$0 - $30K
$4,197
$30 - $48K
$5,324
$48 - $75K
$9,503
$75 - $110K
$13,896
$110K & UP
$16,113

We use student reviews and the most current publicly available data on our school pages. As such, we don't typically remove or edit college information. Sources for school statistics and data include the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. Portions of college data include copyrighted material, which is reproduced on this website by permission of Wintergreen Orchard House, a division of Carnegie Communications. © 2009-2016 by Wintergreen Orchard House. All rights reserved.

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