I come from a UC, and will be doing a post-bac at a CSU. From what I hear, the state system does generate higher GPAs. This isn't completely due to an easier grading system, but also the fact that the class sizes are smaller, professors tend to care a tad more, and don't throw random tricks on tests to bring down the average. The UC I go to gets mad when my professor gives out too many As. I got curved down a lot because of this. My scores were fine, but people were scoring better than me, so I got curved down. What an education we have! So I think admissions recognizes this, and will see a 3.7GPA from a UC as someone who can really survive some curveballs! Again, consult others!