Fresno State makes Money’s list of nation’s best colleges for quality and affordability

Fresno State ranks among the nation’s best colleges when it comes to quality, affordability and outcomes, according to Money’s 2022 Best Colleges list.

The university ranked No. 29 in the top 50 list, as one of 11 California State University campuses that made it. In its subcategories, Fresno State ranked No. 25 for Best Public Colleges and No. 17 for Best College in the West.

Fresno State has a 90% acceptance rate, and the average cost to attend with and without grants is $22,900 and $7,300, respectively, according to Money. The campus has the lowest mandatory fees in the CSU, and is one of the most affordable in the 23-campus CSU system.

According to Money’s list, 78% of students receive grants, and early career earnings average $54,590

The student population at Fresno State is almost 25,000, according to the university, and 66% of those are the first in their families to graduate from college.

About 670 colleges and universities were judged in 24 factors in three categories to make the list: quality of education, affordability, and outcomes.

In a news release from the university, Fresno State President Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval said the ranking confirms the university’s commitment to providing its students with the opportunity to learn, engage and become leaders.

“The heartfelt efforts of our faculty and staff result in a comprehensive higher education that transforms the lives of our talented and diverse students — who in turn empower our communities, state and world,” he said.

Money, the personal finance brand and website, separated its annual rankings into two lists this year: a main ranking of 623 colleges nationwide and a secondary ranking of the nation’s 48 most selective schools.

Fresno State has appeared on Money’s Best Colleges list since 2016, excluding 2021, when no list was published, the university said.