California State University-Fresno

California State University-Fresno admits 96.4% of applicants, meaning roughly 24 out of every 25 applicants receives an offer of admission. This places CSU Fresno in the Open Access category, making higher education accessible to a broad range of students regardless of academic background.

The peer median admission rate of 78.1% shows that CSU Fresno is significantly more accessible than typical four-year institutions, admitting applicants at a rate 18.3 percentage points higher than peers. This open admission approach aligns with the California State University system's mission to serve diverse student populations throughout the state.

The high acceptance rate means that most students who meet basic eligibility requirements can expect admission, though specific programs may have additional requirements. Students should view CSU Fresno as a realistic option for their college lists, particularly those seeking accessible higher education with proven post-graduation outcomes.

The combination of open access with strong economic mobility makes this institution especially valuable for first-generation and lower-income students who may face barriers at more selective institutions.

California State University-Fresno's published cost of attendance is $18,650 per year, which includes $6,980 in in-state tuition, $11,634 for room and board, and $938 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students face higher tuition of $18,860.

However, the average student pays just $6,480 after financial aid, representing savings of $12,170 from the sticker price. This demonstrates the substantial impact of financial aid in making CSU Fresno affordable for students from diverse economic backgrounds.

The net price of $6,480 is significantly below the peer median of $15,590, saving students $9,110 compared to similar institutions. This cost advantage is particularly important given CSU Fresno's mission to serve first-generation and Pell-eligible students who may have limited financial resources.

The combination of a relatively low published price and substantial financial aid makes higher education accessible to students who might otherwise be priced out of four-year college options. For California residents, the in-state tuition structure provides additional affordability compared to out-of-state alternatives.

CSU Fresno graduates demonstrate steady earnings growth over time. Median earnings rise from $44,012 six years after enrollment to $51,924 at eight years and $61,244 at ten years, representing 39.2% growth from the six-year mark.

These outcomes are based on a ten-year cohort of 5,733 graduates, providing high confidence in the reported figures. Graduates earn $8,133 beyond expectations compared to similar students nationally, placing CSU Fresno at the 82.1st percentile for earnings uplift.

The institution performs well above average on this measure, reflecting its effectiveness in translating educational opportunity into economic advancement. Low-income graduates earn $46,500, demonstrating the university's ability to support upward mobility for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Earnings span from $38,091 at the 25th percentile to $84,801 at the 75th percentile, reflecting differences in program choice and career trajectory. Approximately 25.8% of graduates continue to graduate or professional study, indicating balanced preparation for both advanced education and workforce entry.

CSU Fresno offers 20 bachelor's degree programs with sufficient federal earnings data for ranking. Adult Health Nurse/Nursing ranks #36 nationally and #19 in California, producing 186 graduates with median earnings of $97,606 and a value score of 87.2.

General Studies ranks #14 nationally and #6 in California, graduating 485 students with median earnings of $46,235 and an exceptional value score of 92.8. Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations ranks #10 nationally and #2 in California, graduating 115 students with median earnings of $62,027.

Agricultural Animal Breeding ranks #11 nationally and #2 in California, with 98 graduates earning $46,801. Business Administration and Management represents the university's largest program, graduating 788 students annually with median earnings of $54,098, reflecting strong student demand.

Psychology graduates 443 students with median earnings of $44,022, while Criminology graduates 430 students earning $40,745. The program portfolio demonstrates particular strength in agriculture, health sciences, and professional fields.