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AdmissionsOS

California State University-Fullerton vs California State University-Northridge

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

California State University-Fullerton California State University-Northridge
Acceptance rate lower = more selective 91% 93%
Average net price what students actually pay after aid $6,555 $7,021
Sticker cost of attendance $18,269 $20,485
Graduation rate 70% 57%
Retention rate 82% 73%
Undergraduates 38,546 32,691
Student-faculty ratio 26:1 25:1
Setting Fullerton, CA Northridge, 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-Fullerton or California State University-Northridge harder to get into?

California State University-Fullerton is more selective, with a 91% acceptance rate versus 93% at California State University-Northridge. 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-Fullerton or California State University-Northridge?

California State University-Fullerton has the lower average net price ($6,555 versus $7,021). 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.