Acceptance at San Diego State - how tough is it?

Hey, I'm a high school junior who's been looking into San Diego State University as an option for college. I'm curious about how difficult it might be to get accepted. What's their typical acceptance rate, and what factors do they take into account? Any tips or advice would be amazing!

The acceptance rate at San Diego State University (SDSU) can vary year by year, but it generally hovers around 34%. It's important to remember that the acceptance rate is just one part of their admission process, as they have a holistic review process, meaning they consider the whole applicant, not just their statistics.

Some factors SDSU admissions look for include:

1. GPA: Your high school GPA is important, as it reflects your academic performance throughout your high school years. SDSU typically looks for applicants with a competitive GPA (usually above a 3.0), but they take into account the context of your school and the rigor of your coursework.

2. Coursework: The courses you take during high school play a significant role in the evaluation process. SDSU looks for applicants who have taken challenging courses, particularly Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or Honors classes. This shows your willingness to take on higher-level academic work.

3. Extracurricular activities: Your involvement outside of the classroom will help showcase your interests, dedication, and leadership potential. SDSU considers the breadth and depth of your extracurriculars, as well as how you've made an impact in those areas.

4. Personal statement: Although the Cal State system does not require essays, remember that the personal insight questions allow you to share your experiences and personal growth in more detail. Treat them as an opportunity to showcase your personality and potential.

As for tips to improve your chances of acceptance:

1. Maintain a competitive GPA: Focus on maintaining, or even improving, your GPA throughout your remaining time in high school. Make sure to balance your schedule with rigorous courses, but don't overload yourself.

2. Participate in extracurricular activities: Get involved in clubs, organizations, sports, or other activities that interest you. Aim to not only be a participant but also take on leadership roles or make tangible contributions.

3. Prepare your application carefully: Thoroughly complete the application with accurate information, and invest time in your personal insight questions. Write thoughtfully and authentically about your experiences and what you've learned along the way.

4. Apply to multiple Cal State campuses: Since SDSU is a competitive Cal State campus, it's wise to apply to several other campuses within the California State University system to maximize your chances of acceptance.

Best of luck with your application, and remember to research, plan, and put your best foot forward!