PRESS RELEASE: Fresno State’s accreditation reaffirmed for 10 years.
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission has reaffirmed Fresno State’s accreditation for 10 years — the longest reaffirmation period possible and one reserved for institutions that demonstrate the highest levels of quality, effectiveness and integrity.
“This introspective process of accreditation has allowed us to reflect on our shared mission and collective efforts, through which we continually strive to become better in our service to our region,” said Fresno State President Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval. “This phenomenal outcome belongs to every member of our campus community — faculty, staff and students — who contributed to the self-study, hosted the visit and live and breathe our values every day through their hard work of teaching, research, service and support of students.”
Accreditation certifies the validity of Fresno State degrees and is required for students to be eligible for federal financial aid. Fresno State participated in the Thematic Pathway for Reaccreditation process, an option only available to high-performing institutions that did well in their previous reaccreditation. Fresno State’s theme was “Flagship of the Central Valley.”
Under the reaccreditation process, the university completed a self-study carried out by 77 members of the campus community. Six working groups analyzed social mobility, high-impact practices, alumni career satisfaction, economic impact, the impact of Fresno State’s research and service and graduates in the regional workforce. The study was submitted to the commission in July 2025. Commission representatives then visited the Fresno State campus in the fall.
The commission commended Fresno State for:
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The commitment and entrepreneurial spirit of faculty and staff, even amid financial and external challenges.
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Extending its reach through strong partnerships with high schools and community colleges.
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Harnessing athletics to foster pride, connection and engagement across the region.
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Having a multi-generational, transformational impact on social mobility for its graduates.
“These commendations speak directly to Fresno State’s identity as the ‘Flagship of the Central Valley’ and as an institution defined not by exclusivity, but by access, impact and service to our region,” Jiménez-Sandoval said.
Visit Fresno State’s accreditation website to learn more.
By BoNhia Lee, Fresno State
Listen to the report by KMJ’s Liz Kern.
