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Home / Testbook US / California Southern University Admission

California Southern University Acceptance Rate, SAT, ACT & GPA

Last Updated on Feb 25, 2025
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Admission to California Southern University (CalSouthern) is an easy doorway for those looking for flexible yet quality education. With its 100% acceptance rate, CalSouthern invites every qualified individual meeting the requirements of the university to apply. Admission takes into consideration SAT Exam (1400–1500) or ACT Exam scores (25–30) along with a 3.0 GPA minimum. Though test scores are not a requirement, reporting solid scores serves as proof of readiness for education. The university prefers students who are eager to learn and dedicated to their course of study.

🚀 Use Testbook’s SAT Score Calculator to Find Your SAT Scores! 

Did You Know? Fun Facts About California Southern University

1️⃣ Flexible Learning 🎓 – CalSouthern offers fully online degree programs, allowing students to balance education with work and personal commitments.
2️⃣ Supportive Faculty 👨‍🏫 – The university’s faculty members are experienced professionals dedicated to mentoring students.
3️⃣ No Entrance Exams Required ✏️ – While standardized test scores can strengthen applications, CalSouthern does not require SAT or ACT scores for admission.
4️⃣ Global Reach 🌍 – Students from all over the world enroll in CalSouthern’s programs, making it a diverse learning environment.
5️⃣ Accredited & Respected ✅ – CalSouthern is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), ensuring high academic standards.

🚀 Check Admission Requirements of Top US Universities Accepting SAT & ACT!

Element

Details

College Name

California Southern University

College Location

Costa Mesa, California

University Short Form

CalSouthern

Acceptance Rate

100%

Early Decision Due

Not Applicable

Regular Application Due

Rolling Admissions

FAFSA Deadline

June 30

SAT Scores

1400–1500*

ACT Scores

25–30*

🚀 Also, Get to Know How to Send SAT Scores to Colleges?

California Southern University Admission Requirements

CalSouthern’s admissions process is designed to welcome students from diverse backgrounds. The university evaluates applicants based on their academic performance and readiness for higher education.

Requirement

Details

Application Platform

Online Application on CalSouthern Website

SAT Score (Middle 50%)

1400–1500*

ACT Score (Middle 50%)

25–30*

GPA Requirement

3.0 or higher

Application Fee

No application fee

Other Requirements

High School Diploma or GED

Note: While test scores are not mandatory, students with SAT scores between 1400–1500 or ACT scores between 25–30 will present a competitive academic profile. If you have a strong GPA, solid SAT or ACT scores, and meaningful extracurriculars, you'll have a great shot at getting into California Southern University. But CalSouthern isn't just about numbers—it values students who demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and passion for learning.

California Southern University SAT Score Requirements

CalSouthern takes a test-optional approach so that students may not be forced to provide SAT scores. However, a good SAT score (1400–1500) can enhance your application, particularly for competitive programs.

Average California Southern University SAT Scores for Admitted Students

If you're aiming for California Southern University Admissions, a strong SAT score can boost your application. Most admitted students score between 1400 and 1500, with an average SAT score of 1450. Higher section scores, especially in Math (720 average) and Reading + Writing (730 average), can make your application even more competitive.

Section

Average

25th Percentile

75th Percentile

Math

720

680

760

Reading + Writing

730

700

770

Composite

1450

1400

1500

Students aiming for top scores should target the upper end of the range (1500) to maximize their chances of admission.

California Southern University SAT Score Distribution

California Southern University SAT Scores typically range between 1400 and 1500, with a median score of 1450. A score nearer to 1500 will make your application stronger and demonstrate good academic achievement.

Percentile

SAT Score

25th Percentile

1400

50th Percentile (Median)

1450

75th Percentile

1500

🚀 Know the SAT Writing Tips to Score Well on the SAT!

California Southern University Schools That Consider SAT Scores

While California Southern University has a 100% acceptance rate and follows a test-optional policy, some of its schools and programs may still consider SAT scores during the admissions process. If you have a strong SAT score (typically between 1400 and 1500), submitting it could strengthen your application, especially for competitive programs. Higher SAT scores can also be beneficial for merit-based scholarships and placement in advanced courses.

Schools at California Southern University That Consider SAT Scores:

  • School of Behavioral Sciences
  • School of Business and Management
  • School of Law
  • School of Criminal Justice
  • School of Education

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California Southern University ACT Score Requirements

If you're considering the ACT for California Southern University, aiming for a score between 25 and 30 puts you in a solid position for admission. While CalSouthern has a 100% acceptance rate, a higher ACT score (closer to 30) can make your application stronger, especially for competitive programs or scholarship opportunities. If your score is around 27 or above, it showcases strong academic performance and may help set you apart.

Average California Southern University ACT Scores for Admitted Students

If you're considering California Southern University, having good ACT scores can enhance your application, even though the university has a 100% acceptance rate. Most admitted students score between 25 and 30 on the ACT, with a median score of 27.

ACT Percentile

ACT Score Range

25th Percentile

25

50th Percentile (Median)

27

75th Percentile

30

Although CalSouthern has a test-optional policy, submitting a strong ACT score (closer to 30) can highlight your academic potential.

📌 Read ACT English Tips to Boost Your ACT English Scores!

California Southern University GPA Requirement

Your GPA plays a crucial role in your application. CalSouthern requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 for admission. Most admitted students have GPAs between 3.0 and 4.0, reflecting strong academic performance.

California Southern University Average GPA for Admitted Students

GPA Percentile

GPA Range

25th Percentile

3.0

50th Percentile (Median)

3.4

75th Percentile

4.0+

If your GPA is on the lower end, you can strengthen your application with strong essays, extracurricular involvement, or standardized test scores.

🚀 Checkout ACT to SAT Conversion Tool By Testbook!

California Southern University Acceptance Rate

With a 100% acceptance rate, CalSouthern provides an open-door policy for students who meet the basic admission requirements. While the university is not selective, maintaining a strong academic record can help students succeed in their chosen program.

Acceptance Rate

Total Applicants

Admitted

Enrolled

100% (Open Admission)

All Applicants

All Qualified Students

Varies

While all qualified applicants are admitted, students are encouraged to submit strong academic records to excel in their studies.

🚀Find out the Upcoming ACT Test Dates and Deadlines.

California Southern University Scholarships

CalSouthern offers several scholarships and forms of financial aid to assist with making tuition more manageable. These programs assist in cutting costs and allowing students to concentrate on their studies without worrying about money. Some of these include:

  1. Merit-Based Scholarships – Awarded to students with high academic performance.
  2. Need-Based Grants – Available for students demonstrating financial need.
  3. Program-Specific Scholarships – Offered for students in select degree programs.
  4. Military & Veteran Benefits – Special financial aid for military personnel and veterans.

Students are encouraged to apply for scholarships early to maximize financial assistance.

🚀Ace Your Upcoming ACT Test Preparation with our detailed preparation Guide!

California Southern University Superscoring Policy

California Southern University follows a test-optional admissions policy, meaning SAT and ACT scores are not required for admission. However, for students who choose to submit test scores, CalSouthern does not officially superscore the SAT or ACT.

What does this mean?
Unlike some universities that take the highest section scores from multiple test dates to create a "superscore," CalSouthern considers the highest overall composite score from a single test date.

How can you maximize your test scores?

  • If you choose to submit SAT or ACT scores, aim for the higher end of the 1400–1500 SAT or 25–30 ACT range.
  • Strong test scores can enhance your application, even though they are not mandatory.
  • A high GPA (3.0 or above), strong personal statements, and extracurricular involvement can also boost your chances of admission.

Since CalSouthern is test-optional and has a 100% acceptance rate, standardized test scores are not a deciding factor in admissions. However, high scores may still help students qualify for scholarships or demonstrate academic preparedness.

🚀Also, Get Familiar with Should You Guess on SAT & ACT? before appearing for SAT and ACT exams. 

Conclusion

California Southern University has a 100% acceptance rate, which opens the doors of higher education to students who are eligible for basic admission requirements. With a minimum 3.0 GPA, optional SAT (1400–1500) and ACT (25–30) scores, and rolling admissions, CalSouthern is a flexible and welcoming place to learn. Regardless if you're looking for an undergraduate or graduate degree, CalSouthern's affordable tuition, accredited degrees, and scholarship programs make it the perfect choice for career development.

Colleges That Uses SAT Scores

Many prestigious colleges and universities in the U.S. require SAT scores as part of their admissions process. Below is a list of some of the top colleges and universities that use SAT scores for their admissions.

Check Colleges Accepting Low ACT Score

College Name

ACT Score

SAT Score

Texas Southern University

15–19*

820–980*

Tennessee State University

16–21*

890–1080*

Clark Atlanta University

17–20*

860–1053*

Keiser University

15–21*

Not available*

Barry University

16–20*

860–1062*

Colleges That Accept 1200 Score In SAT

University

ACT Score

SAT Score

Wayne State University Admissions

21–27*

940–1200*

Kean University Admissions

16–25*

910–1150*

Eastern Michigan University Admissions

18–26*

910–1150*

Lamar University Admissions

18–24*

910–1120*

Radford University Admissions

19–26*

950–1150*

Grand Valley State University Admissions

21–28*

950–1180*

Central Connecticut State University Admissions

16–27*

925–1140*

University Of Memphis Admissions

17–24*

930–1175*

Sam Houston State University Admissions

19–25*

950–1130*

Oakland University Admissions

20–27*

900–1150*

University Of North Florida Admissions

20–26*

1010–1200*

California Southern University Admissions FAQs

No, CalSouthern has a test-optional policy. However, submitting a strong SAT score (1400–1500) can strengthen your application.

CalSouthern has a 100% acceptance rate, making it an open-admission university.

A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, but most admitted students have GPAs between 3.0 and 4.0.A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, but most admitted students have GPAs between 3.0 and 4.0.

No, ACT scores are optional. However, a strong ACT score (25–30) can help your application stand out.

CalSouthern has rolling admissions, meaning you can apply anytime throughout the year.

Yes! CalSouthern provides merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and military benefits to help students with tuition costs.

Yes! CalSouthern accepts international students and offers online programs worldwide.

Yes, CalSouthern is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), ensuring high academic standards.
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