
800 N State College Blvd., Fullerton, CA 92831, USA


California State University-Fullerton holds regional accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). This accreditation signifies that the institution meets rigorous standards for quality and effectiveness in higher education.
In addition to its overall institutional accreditation, several of the university's individual programs have earned specialized accreditation from professional bodies. These accreditations verify that specific academic departments maintain high standards relevant to their disciplines and prepare students effectively for professional careers.
Prospective students can be assured that California State University-Fullerton's accredited status supports transferability of credits, eligibility for federal financial aid, and recognition of degrees by employers and graduate schools nationwide.
California State University-Fullerton requires applicants to have completed secondary school with a valid diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. A strong secondary school record and a minimum Grade Point Average are mandatory for admission consideration. While class rank is recommended, it is not strictly required. Applicants must also have completed a college preparatory program prior to enrollment.
Standardized testing is not strictly required but is recommended: applicants are encouraged to submit admission test scores, including the ACT, although submission is optional. Additionally, international students must provide TOEFL scores to demonstrate English proficiency.
Recommendations and evidence of academic competencies are suggested but not compulsory. The university supports awarding credit for Advanced Placement (AP) coursework as well as dual credits, although dual credit is not accepted for admission purposes.
The acceptance rate at California State University-Fullerton is relatively high at 87%, indicating a generally accessible admissions process compared to more competitive institutions. Out of 48,591 applicants, approximately 42,149 students were admitted, and of these, 7,070 enrolled. Female applicants made up a larger portion of applicants, admissions, and enrollments than male applicants.
California State University-Fullerton charges an application fee to prospective students submitting their applications. This fee is a standard part of the application process and is required to be paid at the time an application is submitted.
Fee waivers are available for eligible applicants who demonstrate financial need or meet specific criteria set by the university. These waivers aim to reduce barriers for students who might otherwise find the cost prohibitive, thereby supporting access to higher education.
Applicants interested in obtaining a fee waiver must submit appropriate documentation or meet conditions established by the admissions office. The university encourages prospective students to inquire early about eligibility and the application process for fee waivers to ensure they receive consideration.
California State University-Fullerton does not host its own ROTC units on campus. Instead, students interested in pursuing ROTC programs typically participate through affiliated programs at neighboring or cooperating host institutions.
California State University-Fullerton accepts transfer students for the fall and spring terms, providing flexibility for students aiming to continue their education at different points in the academic year. Prospective transfer applicants can submit credits earned through CLEP exams, both subject-specific and general tests, as well as DANTES exams, facilitating the recognition of prior learning and military training.
The university also considers letters of recommendation as part of its transfer admission process, which may help applicants strengthen their submissions. While some transfer-related details such as credit acceptance policies and age limits are not disclosed, the institution's acceptance of these standardized credits and recommendations reflects a commitment to recognizing various forms of prior academic achievement.
California State University-Fullerton offers multiple study abroad opportunities designed to enhance students' global understanding and academic experience. The programs include semester-long exchanges, short-term faculty-led trips, and summer sessions, allowing students to choose based on their academic schedule and personal interests.
Students can participate in exchange programs with partner universities across various countries, providing immersion in different cultures while earning credits toward their degree. These exchanges typically last a full semester or an academic year, giving students substantial time to engage with the host country's language and customs.
Short-term faculty-led programs usually take place during school breaks and focus on specific academic subjects or research areas. These trips provide a condensed but intensive international experience, combining classroom learning with site visits and cultural activities.
The university also encourages summer study abroad options, which allow students to explore international academic environments without interrupting their regular coursework during the academic year. Summer sessions are often interdisciplinary, appealing to students from diverse academic backgrounds.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
0.2%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
4.3%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
Data not availableComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
Data not availableSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
RecommendedTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
Data not availableDisabilities services
Data not availableOff-campus study
Data not availableROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
NoPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
Data not availablePossible transfer
Fall, Spring