Overview
California State University-Northridge is an open admission public four-year institution in Northridge, California. The school accepts most applicants who complete the application process.
Admission Guide
California State University-Northridge uses Cal State Apply, the centralized application system for all CSU campuses. You'll submit your application between October 1 and November 30 for fall admission, with a December 15 deadline for spring admission. The application requires your high school transcripts, completion of A-G coursework requirements, and standardized test scores are optional for most programs.
Several programs maintain competitive admission standards despite the university's overall accessibility. Nursing requires separate application materials and has limited spots each year. Engineering programs, particularly electrical and computer engineering, receive more applications than available seats. The cinema and television arts program also operates selective admission due to equipment and facility constraints.
Housing applications open in February, and you should apply early since CSUN guarantees housing only to first-year students who submit their housing contract and deposit by the priority deadline in May. The campus requires all first-year students under 21 who live more than 30 miles away to live on campus for their first year unless they live with family.
New Student Orientation occurs throughout the summer before your first semester. You'll register for classes during orientation, so completing any required placement tests beforehand helps you enroll in appropriate courses immediately. CSUN operates on a semester system with classes beginning in late August.
The campus sits in the San Fernando Valley with hot, dry summers reaching over 100 degrees regularly. Parking permits cost several hundred dollars per semester, and finding spots requires arriving early. The Metro Orange Line connects campus to other parts of Los Angeles, though you'll need additional transit connections to reach most destinations in the city.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $7,599/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $7,095
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $18,975
- Students Receiving Aid
- 56%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 56.2%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $59,115/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 74.4%
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application deadline for California State University-Northridge?
Cal State Northridge follows the CSU system-wide deadline of November 30 for fall admission. Spring admission applications are typically due by August 31.
Does California State University-Northridge require SAT or ACT scores?
CSUN is test-optional and does not require SAT or ACT scores for admission. Students may submit test scores if they want them considered as part of their application.
What GPA do you need to transfer to California State University-Northridge?
Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA from their previous college coursework. Students with 60+ transferable semester units and completion of the Golden Four general education requirements receive priority consideration.
Does California State University-Northridge offer early admission or early decision?
CSUN does not offer early decision or early action programs. All applications are reviewed during the regular admission cycle after the November 30 deadline.