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16 September 2025

5 minutes read

Cal Fresno State GPA, SAT Score, ACT & Admission Requirements for Indian students

Dirghayu Kaushik
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Dirghayu Kaushik

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Founder & CEO

Dirghayu Kaushik is the co-founder and CEO of Ambitio. He started this platform because he’s been in your shoes—navigating confusing websites, second-guessing college choices, and trying to make sense of what actually matters in an application. A graduate of IIT BHU, Dirghayu combines personal experience with data-backed guidance to help students apply smarter. Whether it’s choosing the right course, building a standout profile, or writing essays that don’t feel forced, his mission is simple: to make getting into your dream university less overwhelming, and a little more honest.

2 September 2024

5 minutes read

Key Takeaways

  • Fresno State GPA starts at 2.0, but aiming above the 3.18 school average makes you more competitive.
  • Strong SAT (1030–1210) or ACT (18–26) scores can offset lower GPAs and boost admission chances.
  • Beyond scores, standout applications highlight essays, extracurriculars, and smart major selection.

Applying to Cal State Fresno (Fresno State University)? Gaining admission to this respected college depends primarily on your academic performance in high school. Your GPA and test scores on the SAT or ACT are critical factors that admissions officers closely evaluate for each applicant.

While Fresno State has an accessible acceptance rate, getting admitted is far from guaranteed. You would want to make sure your GPA meets the requirements listed and make a goal for scores that exceed the average SAT and ACT for admitted students.

Having a GPA of at least the minimum, as well as additional strengths like extracurriculars, can almost guarantee admission if your test scores align with the standards. When you use an admissions calculator, it can help increase your chance of admission based on your GPA and test scores.

California State University Fresno State GPA Requirements

Getting into California State University-Fresno can feel competitive, but knowing the exact Fresno State GPA requirements, SAT/ACT benchmarks, and admissions process will help you prepare better. This guide explains the minimum CSU eligibility requirements, course requirements, and how to increase your chance of getting admitted.

Below is a detailed table to help you understand the requirements for admission and where you stand:

Admission FactorRequirement / AverageNotes for Indian & International Students
Minimum GPAGPA of 2.0 (CSU minimum eligibility requirements)Meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission to Fresno State.
School’s Average GPAAround 3.18 (college GPA)To be competitive for Cal State Fresno, you need to be closer to or above this level.
SAT RequirementSAT not always mandatory, but students are required to take the SAT or ACT for certain majorsIf GPA is lower, you’ll need a higher SAT score to balance it.
SAT Scoring GuideBased on the 1600 scaleStrategy: take your current SAT score and add 160 points → improves your chances.
ACT RequirementOptional, but can strengthen applicationHelps if your GPA is below the school’s average.
Admission Rate~58%Your chance of getting into California State University-Fresno depends on GPA + test scores.
Course RequirementsCompletion of CSU “A-G” subject patternNeeded to be eligible for admission.
Competitive MajorsBusiness, Engineering, SciencesFresno State continues to grow these programs, often accommodated by state funding.

Cal State Fresno Admission Requirements For Applicants

Cal State Fresno College or University has established a clear set of admission requirements that all prospective applicants must meet. At the core are minimum GPA standards that vary slightly for California residents versus non-residents. Additionally, there are targets for SAT and ACT scores that demonstrate adequate academic preparation.

fresno state gpa

Here is the breakdown of the SAT & ACT Requirement:

California State  University-Fresno SAT Score Requirement

Cal State Fresno’s School is moderately selective in terms of its admissions process. While the minimum CSU eligibility requirement is a 2.0 grade point average, the average GPA for admitted students is around 3.18. Strong SAT scores are essential to enhance your application.

The middle 50% SAT score range for accepted students is 1030-1210 (out of 1600). To be competitive with other students, at least aim for a score of 160 points above your current average SAT score. For example, scoring a 1210 or higher can nearly guarantee admission if your GPA is near the 3.18 average.

While meeting the minimum requirements allows students to apply, Fresno State University continues to have more qualified applicants than can be accommodated. As such, exceeding the admissions standards for GPA and test scores is highly advisable to effectively compete for admission.

California State University-Fresno ACT Requirement

For Cal State Fresno’s ACT requirement, keep in mind that the university is moderately selective and continues to have more qualified applicants than can be accommodated across majors each year. The minimum 2.0 GPA CSU eligibility requirement does not guarantee admission.

Fresno State’s admission decision relies heavily on grades and test scores like the ACT. The school’s minimum GPA requirement for accepted students is around 3.18, so you’ll likely need a higher GPA. For the average ACT score, the middle 50% range for admitted students is 18-26.

To be truly competitive and nearly guarantee admission when combined with a strong GPA, students may want to aim for an ACT score at least 4 points above their current score. This places you above the average for accepted students. While meeting minimums allows you to apply, exceeding Fresno State’s admission standards is advisable to effectively compete.

How Indian Students Can Improve Their Fresno State GPA Profile?

Improving your Fresno State GPA profile is essential if you want to stand out in California State University-Fresno admission.

fresno state gpa

Since GPA is hard to change quickly, focusing on smart strategies, test scores, and overall application strength can increase your chance to get into California State University.

1. Aim Above the School Average of 3.18

While the minimum CSU minimum eligibility requirements allow a GPA of 2.0, the school average of 3.18 makes Cal State Fresno competitive. Indian students should aim for GPAs above this level to avoid being placed below average during admissions and recruitment.

2. Balance Lower GPAs with Strong SAT or ACT Scores

If your GPA is lower, you can still nearly guarantee you admission by submitting higher SAT or ACT scores. Experts, including strategies written by Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers, suggest that boosting your SAT score can compensate for weaker grades.

3. Use Proprietary Admissions Strategies

Since GPA is hard to change, focus on proprietary admissions strategies like targeted GRE prep. Some test prep guides claim that if you score and add 160 points on your current SAT, it can help you compete effectively and make you competitive for these schools.

4. Choose Majors Wisely

Fresno State continues to expand programs in engineering, business, and science majors, often accommodated by state funding. Selecting a major where your profile is stronger can improve your chances during California State University-Fresno admission.

5. Strengthen Your Application Beyond GPA

Remember, students submit more than just grades. Your Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letter of Recommendation (LORs), extracurriculars, and achievements can make you stand out in Cal State Apply. This means that meeting the minimum is not enough; what makes Cal State Fresno attractive is being competitive in all majors.

Conclusion

Gaining admission to Cal State Fresno requires meeting specific GPA and standardized test score standards. While the minimum eligibility allows you to apply, the university receives far more qualified applicants than it can accommodate each year. To truly stand out and effectively compete, we advise you to aim for academic credentials that exceed Fresno State’s averages for admitted students.

Along with a strong GPA and test scores, highlight any unique talents, experiences, or circumstances that could provide context around your academic profile. Admissions officers review applications holistically, so compelling essays and recommendations can bolster your case for admission at this respected university.

Ready to go beyond just numbers? At Ambitio, we don’t just guide you; we build your profile, polish your story, and position you as a standout candidate. Book your free consultation today and understand how we can turn your Fresno State dream into an admit!

FAQs

What is the average GPA required for admission to California State University, Fresno?

California State University, Fresno typically looks for a high school GPA of 3.12 or better for admission

What SAT score is needed to get into California State University, Fresno?

The middle 50% of admitted applicants have SAT scores between 890 and 1100, with an average SAT score of 995

What is the acceptance rate at California State University, Fresno?

California State University, Fresno has an acceptance rate of 95% for applicants who submitted test scores, with half of admitted students having SAT scores between 880 and 1140 or an ACT score of 16 and 24

What are the minimum GPA requirements for California State University, Fresno?

To be considered for admission, students should have a GPA of 2.0 for California high school graduates/CA residents or 2.47 for non-CA HS graduates and non-residents, with an Admission Score calculated as GPA x 800

Does California State University, Fresno consider extracurricular activities in the admissions process?

While extracurricular activities are not required for admission to California State University, Fresno, they can enhance an applicant’s profile and demonstrate a well-rounded individual.

What are some tips for a successful application to California State University, Fresno?

To increase your chances of admission to California State University, Fresno, focus on maintaining a strong GPA, actively participate in extracurricular activities, write a compelling personal statement, and ensure your application is complete and submitted by the deadline.

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