Hey guys! I'm a Cali-based junior looking to potentially stay in-state for college. I'm a bit of a glutton for a challenge, so I was curious about which California State College is considered the hardest to gain admission? Any insider info is highly appreciated!
Hello! Great to see that you're interested in the challenges that the California State University (CSU) system can offer. While all CSU schools provide solid academic programs, certain campuses do have a reputation of being more selective than others.
When discussing the "hardest" CSU school to get into, many people may point to San Diego State University (SDSU) or Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Both have historically had lower acceptance rates and higher average GPAs among admitted students than most CSU campuses.
For example, SDSU is known for its business, nursing, and psychology programs. In recent years, it has had an acceptance rate of around 39%, which is quite selective when you compare it to other CSU campuses.
On the other hand, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, more often than not, stands out for its engineering, architecture, and agriculture programs. Cal Poly SLO has a moderately competitive acceptance rate around 30%, and it's known for its philosophy of "Learn by Doing," which means they emphasize hands-on, practical experiences.
Keep in mind that selectivity can change from year to year, and a lower acceptance rate doesn't necessarily mean a school is better. You'll want to consider the school’s academic programs, campus culture, location, and other factors that might impact your college experience.
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