California State University - Fresno
Overview
California State University – Fresno, also referred to as Fresno State, is a reputable public university in the Central Valley of California. Fresno State is an attractive combination of academic excellence, affordability, and a friendly campus atmosphere to international students who want to study in the USA.
Its location in Fresno, a vibrant, diverse city surrounded by California’s agricultural heartland, makes it a strategic place for global learners seeking quality education and practical exposure.
Students exploring undergraduate programs or postgraduate programs at California State University – Fresno will find a broad spectrum of degrees across engineering, business, health sciences, agriculture, and education.
Highlights
Acceptance Rate: 94%
Total International Students: 1,000+
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 23:1
Placement Percentage: 96%
California State University - Fresno Intakes
Understanding the intake cycles at California State University – Fresno is essential for students planning to join undergraduate programs at California State University – Fresno or postgraduate programs.
To secure admission, applicants must closely monitor California State University – Fresno application deadlines, as each intake has its own cut-off dates.
Students interested in How to apply to California State University – Fresno can submit their documents through the university’s online application portal, while uploading their required documents.
- Fall Intake: The Fall term is the main and the most enrolled term of the Fresno State with the most diversified programs and the best campus orientation to international students.
- Spring Intake: The Spring entry offers a great option to students with more time to collect papers, master the English language, or complete financial planning.
- Summer Intake: The Summer intake is limited but available for select programs, short-term courses, or preparatory pathways. For those planning a Master’s in USA, Summer sessions can also serve as an early start for skill-building or orientation courses.
California State University - Fresno Courses
If you’re exploring popular programs at California State University – Fresno, the university offers a wide array of degrees tailored to global career pathways.
Fresno State is especially acclaimed for programs in agriculture, business administration, engineering, nursing, and education making it one of the top universities to study in the USA.
Some of the top courses at California State University – Fresno are as follows:
| Program | Duration | Total Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
| MS in Agricultural Science | 2 Years | $14,581 |
| MS in Civil Engineering | 2 Years | $14,581 |
| MA in Education in Curriculum and Instruction | 2 Years | $14,581 |
| MS in Criminology | 2 Years | $14,581 |
| MS in Construction Management | 2 Years | $14,581 |
| MS in Biology | 2 Years | $14,581 |
| MS in Mathematics | 2 Years | $14,581 |
Cost of Studying at California State University - Fresno
Understanding the cost of studying at California State University – Fresno is essential for international learners preparing their budget for life in California.
This section walks you through expected expenses including tuition fees at California State University – Fresno, housing, and day-to-day living costs.
The cost of education in USA varies widely, but Fresno’s lower cost of living compared to major California cities makes it easier for students to maintain a balanced budget while still enjoying a full university experience.
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| UG Tuition Fees | $16,500 – $18,000/year |
| PG Tuition Fees | $17,000 – $20,000/year |
| Accommodation | $9,000 – $13,000/year |
| Food | $250 – $400/month |
| Travel | $60 – $120/month |
| General Expenses | $150 – $250/month |
California State University - Fresno Scholarships
Fresno State offers several funding opportunities for students, including merit-based awards, departmental scholarships, and competitive grants.
Whether you’re exploring financial aid at California State University – Fresno or researching merit-based scholarships, you’ll find several routes to financial support.
Some of the top scholarships at California State University – Fresno for international students are as follows:
| Scholarship | Value | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Dean’s Scholarship Tuition Waiver (DSTW) | $1,250 to $3,750 | Awarded to international students pursuing degree at university |
| Muhareb Family Grant | $1,000 to $1,500 | Awarded to international students pursuing degree at university |
| Chancellor’s Scholarship | Variable | Awarded based on academic merit and leadership |
California State University - Fresno Admission
Understanding the eligibility to study at California State University – Fresno is an important first step, as each program, whether undergraduate or graduate, has its own academic and documentation requirements.
Meeting English proficiency for California State University – Fresno is essential for all non-native English speakers. Accepted tests generally include TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test, or equivalent assessments.
The admission requirements for California State University – Fresno are as follows:
Admission Requirements:
To get admission to Master’s program, students must have a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.5 or above.
English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:
- TOEFL iBT – 80
- IELTS – 6.5
- PTE – 53
- Duolingo – 105
Additional Requirements:
You will also be needed to provide academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statement, resume or CV, and English language proficiency scores.
Admission Requirements:
For admission to Bachelor’s in the USA, students are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent.
English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:
- TOEFL iBT – 61
- IELTS – 6.0
- PTE – 45
- Duolingo – 100
Additional Requirements:
You will also be needed to provide academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statement, resume or CV, and English language proficiency scores.
Accommodation at California State University - Fresno
Finding the right place to live is an essential part of adjusting to university life, and Fresno State offers a supportive environment for newcomers.
With strong international student support at California State University – Fresno, the university ensures that students receive guidance when choosing housing options, understanding contracts, and settling into their new surroundings.
- On-Campus: On-campus housing at California State University – Fresno includes modern residential halls, meal plans, study rooms, and recreational facilities, which are best suited to students who desire to have a structured life that is supported by a university.
- Off-Campus: For those who prefer more independence, off-campus living offers a wide range of apartments and shared rentals in student-friendly neighborhoods surrounding Fresno State.
California State University - Fresno Placements
The university has a significant strength in career development, and the dedication to student success is evidenced by the high California State University – Fresno placement rate in many disciplines.
Career support at California State University – Fresno provides resources like resume workshop, interview coaching, internship placement, and career fairs that interface the students with employers.
A strong alumni network at California State University – Fresno further enhances employability by linking current students with successful professionals across California and beyond.
Some of the top recruiters at California State University – Fresno are as follows:
- Amazon
- Deloitte
- Intel
- Kaiser Permanente
- PepsiCo
- Wells Fargo
- AT&T
- Bank of America
- Fresno Unified School District
Student Essential Services
Adjusting to life in a new country can be overwhelming, but Fresno State ensures that international students receive the guidance they need, from preparing for a USA student visa to settling into campus routines.
The university is known for its warm, community-focused environment, making Student life at California State University – Fresno both engaging and supportive.
- International Student Office: Supports students with visa guidance, SEVIS compliance, pre-arrival checklists, orientation sessions, and cultural adjustment resources.
- Academic Advising: Helps students choose courses, understand degree requirements, and stay on track with their academic plan throughout the year.
- Counseling & Psychological Services: Offers confidential mental health support, wellness workshops, and personal counseling for stress or adjustment challenges.
- Student Health Center: The medical consultations, basic treatments, vaccinations, and health education programs are offered in the Student Health Center, which is conveniently located on campus.
- Student Clubs & Organizations: Connects students to cultural associations, professional groups, leadership programs, and social clubs to build community and friendships.
Location of California State University - Fresno
Frequently Asked Questions
Fresno has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, so students should pack lightweight clothing for most of the year along with a few warm layers for cooler months. Because summers can reach high temperatures, staying hydrated and using sun protection is essential.
It is easy to navigate Fresno without having to own a car because it has a public bus, campus buses, and bike-friendly streets. Students also car pool or ride share on longer distances. The campus location is also central in that it offers key services, grocery, and student friendly neighborhoods even without own transport.
Campus climate is welcoming, non-discriminative, and extremely community-based. There are also cultural clubs, international events, and diversity-focused campus festivals that involve students of other nations. Many international students enjoy how approachable faculty and staff are, which helps them feel connected and supported.
Areas near the university are generally student-friendly, and Fresno State invests heavily in campus safety through patrols, emergency call stations, and late-night escort services. Students are encouraged to choose well-lit neighborhoods and stay aware of their surroundings, just as they would in any large city.
Setting up a phone plan is simple, with many providers like AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Mint Mobile offering prepaid or student plans. Students typically only need identification and a method of payment. Having a U.S. phone number is essential for communication with university offices and local services.
Yes, Fresno has a wide variety of mainstream supermarkets along with specialized Asian, Middle Eastern, Indian, and Latin American stores. Many international students appreciate the availability of familiar ingredients, which helps them maintain cultural food habits while living abroad.
Yes, the campus provides confidential counseling, wellness workshops, stress-management programs, and crisis support. These services are included in student fees, making them accessible without extra cost.
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