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AdmissionsOS

California State University-Fresno vs California State University-San Marcos

Side by side on admissions, cost, and fit, from the same verified school records.

California State University-Fresno California State University-San Marcos
Acceptance rate lower = more selective 95% 95%
Average net price what students actually pay after aid $7,000 $10,229
Sticker cost of attendance $20,095 $21,649
Graduation rate 57% 55%
Retention rate 82% 79%
Undergraduates 21,605 14,877
Student-faculty ratio 22:1 24:1
Setting Fresno, CA San Marcos, CA
Type Public Public
Application fee $70 $70
Test policy Test-blind Test-blind

Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2026-2027 cycle.

Common questions

Is California State University-Fresno or California State University-San Marcos harder to get into?

California State University-San Marcos is more selective, with a 95% acceptance rate versus 95% at California State University-Fresno. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.

Which is cheaper, California State University-Fresno or California State University-San Marcos?

California State University-Fresno has the lower average net price ($7,000 versus $10,229). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.