2024 Best Colleges in California

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1-25 of 206 results

Freshman: Stanford University offers an exceptional academic environment with cutting-edge research opportunities and a vibrant campus life. The access to world-renowned faculty and a diverse, intellectually stimulating community are definite highlights. The collaborative atmosphere fosters innovation and personal growth. However, some areas for improvement could include increasing support for mental health services and addressing issues of diversity and inclusion more robustly. Additionally, enhancing financial aid programs to ensure broader accessibility for students from all economic backgrounds would be beneficial.... Read 1,289 reviews
#1 Best Colleges in California.
Stanford University
4 Year,
STANFORD, CA,
1289 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Stanford University offers an exceptional academic environment with cutting-edge research opportunities and a vibrant campus life. The access to world-renowned faculty and a diverse, intellectually...However, some areas for improvement could include increasing support for mental health services and addressing issues of diversity and inclusion more robustly. Additionally, enhancing financial aid....
Read 1289 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 4%,
Net Price: $18,279,
SAT Range: 1500-1580,
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#2 Best Colleges in California.
Harvey Mudd College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CLAREMONT, CA,
159 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Other says I'm an incoming freshman! I was accepted to the Class of 2028 and I'll likely be studying either engineering or math+compsci. I attended Admitted Student Day 2 weeks ago on campus and the current....
Read 159 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 13%,
Net Price: $39,850,
SAT Range: 1480-1560,
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#3 Best Colleges in California.
California Institute of Technology
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PASADENA, CA,
133 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Other says I like the campus most , students activities , diverse programs of alumni and dorms and libraries . overall experiences are very good ..
Read 133 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 3%,
Net Price: $20,755,
SAT Range: 1530-1580,
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SponsoredCollege
California Institute of Technology
4 Year·
PASADENA, CA
·
Rating 3.97 out of 5 133
SponsoredCollege
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
4 Year·
SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA
·
Rating 3.78 out of 5 4,022
SponsoredCollege
Campus (formerly MTI College)
2 Year·
SACRAMENTO, CA
·
Rating 4.17 out of 5 167
Sophomore: Pomona is the best place if you're into a small college environment, down-to-earth really intellectual people, and are open to learn new subjects! I have grown so much in my semesters here, and I feel set up to succeed in the future. The college has free food and events everywhere, and there's always something to do alongside your classes (and, if not, you can always lay out in the beautiful sun). Would highly recommend going on On-The-Loose trips, where you can go on backpacking trips, overnight beach trips, etc. Pomona has been the perfect fit, and I couldn't ask for a better college experience. Oh, and the professors? They are amazing! Super supportive and, while it is a very rigorous place, the professors are rooting for you to achieve.... Read 427 reviews
#4 Best Colleges in California.
Pomona College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CLAREMONT, CA,
427 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Pomona is the best place if you're into a small college environment, down-to-earth really intellectual people, and are open to learn new subjects! I have grown so much in my semesters here, and I....
Read 427 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $19,962,
SAT Range: 1480-1560,
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Graduate Student: UCLA offers a rich and diverse academic experience, characterized by high-caliber professors renowned for their expertise. The faculty's approach varies, with some professors being exceptionally caring and supportive, while others maintain a more professional demeanor. A standout feature of UCLA is its diverse student body, providing a unique opportunity to interact with peers from various backgrounds, races, and cultures. This multicultural environment fosters a broader perspective on life and enhances the overall learning experience. The university's commitment to academic excellence, combined with its vibrant campus culture, creates an engaging atmosphere for personal and intellectual growth. Despite the occasional challenges of a large institution, UCLA's blend of top-tier education and cultural diversity makes it a rewarding choice for higher education.... Read 5,617 reviews
#5 Best Colleges in California.
University of California - Los Angeles
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
LOS ANGELES, CA,
5617 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Graduate Student says UCLA offers a rich and diverse academic experience, characterized by high-caliber professors renowned for their expertise. The faculty's approach varies, with some professors being exceptionally....
Read 5617 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 9%,
Net Price: $16,999,
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#6 Best Colleges in California.
Claremont McKenna College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CLAREMONT, CA,
435 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Weather is great, Professors are really interested in your growth, and there are endless opportunities for on campus work and summer internships. The social life is nice even though you will probably....
Read 435 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 10%,
Net Price: $28,701,
SAT Range: 1440-1550,
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Alum: I loved it! My major was biochemistry, and I had the greatest time in classes in labs, etc. I also was super appreciative of the alumni network USC provides students with, as it allowed me to use connections I made in the classroom to get jobs outside, like lab work or other. Football games and student life was awesome. Advising was super good, especially as a student looking to go to grad school. The only things I wasn't crazy about were the low diversity, and the unsafe area. USC did what it can to make the area safer with campus police and all, but there's still a pretty high crime rate compared to the rest of LA.... Read 4,072 reviews
#7 Best Colleges in California.
University of Southern California
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
LOS ANGELES, CA,
4072 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I loved it! My major was biochemistry, and I had the greatest time in classes in labs, etc. I also was super appreciative of the alumni network USC provides students with, as it allowed me to use....
Read 4072 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 12%,
Net Price: $36,808,
SAT Range: 1450-1550,
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Sophomore: UC Berkeley is a prestigious institution that has a lot to offer in academics and extracurriculars. To me, the people are what make the experience so great, and fortunately, with such a large class, there is a myriad of people and groups to be affiliated with which illustrates the diversity at Berkeley. Some things can be frustrating sometimes such as applying for classes, finding resources, and having intrapersonal interactions with professors and classmates due to Berkeley being such a large institution. Additionally, there are other inconveniences such as the lack of housing for students which in my opinion, needs to start being a priority for the administration. Overall, UC Berkeley has a lot to offer and it is truly what you make of it. As someone who is heavily involved in varsity athletics, extracurriculars, leadership positions, and paraprofessional organizations, I am proud to call UC Berkeley home for me and I carry that with pride and class. Go Bears!... Read 4,521 reviews
#8 Best Colleges in California.
University of California - Berkeley
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
BERKELEY, CA,
4521 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says UC Berkeley is a prestigious institution that has a lot to offer in academics and extracurriculars. To me, the people are what make the experience so great, and fortunately, with such a large class,....
Read 4521 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 11%,
Net Price: $19,257,
SAT Range: 1310-1530,
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Alum: The university is known for its strong programs in engineering, computer science, biological sciences, business, and the arts, providing ample research opportunities and access to dedicated faculty who are leaders in their fields. The diverse and inclusive campus community enriches the student experience, supported by numerous cultural clubs, advocacy groups, and resources. However, there are areas that could be improved. The cost and availability of housing in Irvine can be challenging. Parking on campus is also a concern due to high fees and limited spaces, particularly during peak hours. Additionally, popular classes often fill up quickly, making it hard for students to enroll in required courses. Simplifying administrative processes and improving communication between the administration and students would enhance the overall experience. Despite these challenges, UCI remains an excellent environment for academic and personal growth... Read 4,302 reviews
#9 Best Colleges in California.
University of California - Irvine
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
IRVINE, CA,
4302 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says The university is known for its strong programs in engineering, computer science, biological sciences, business, and the arts, providing ample research opportunities and access to dedicated faculty...However, there are areas that could be improved. The cost and availability of housing in Irvine can be challenging. Parking on campus is also a concern due to high fees and limited spaces,....
Read 4302 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 21%,
Net Price: $14,033,
SAT Range: 1230-1430,
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Sophomore: Academically, this school's courses are satisfying and challenging. The professors are knowledgeable in their expertise and you can tell how passionate they are about their content. The food options are good, though I will say I wish we were given more Triton Cash. In terms of housing, it is frustrating that some first-year dorms are naturally better/modern, due to the year that they were built (like Muir), so I'm hoping to see future improvements in those dorms. Additionally, the party scene of this school is not the best, especially compared to its neighboring schools. Considering the school canceled Sun God this year, I can't say it was the best. Regardless, I would say I enjoyed this year, as the location and free public transport allows students to explore San Diego and take advantage of what it has to offer. Overall, I am excited to return next year.... Read 4,017 reviews
#10 Best Colleges in California.
University of California - San Diego
4 Year,
LA JOLLA, CA,
4017 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Academically, this school's courses are satisfying and challenging. The professors are knowledgeable in their expertise and you can tell how passionate they are about their content. The food options....
Read 4017 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 24%,
Net Price: $16,111,
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Alum: The highlight of my experience at UCSB was its student life! During my time as an undergraduate, I was very active on campus and involved myself in various clubs and organizations. I met many of my best friends through Kapatirang Pilipino, our Filipino cultural interest org. I was also a part of our Multicultural Center, Undocumented Student Services, and our Southeast Asian cultural interest org. Another highlight was living in Isla Vista. I lived in an off-campus apartment with my friends during my Sophomore to Senior years and loved it! As far as changes go, I think improvements can be made towards food options and safety. I felt that we were quite limited as to what we could eat - both on and off campus. I would have liked to see more healthy and also more affordable options being offered. Safety-wise, an improvement I would suggest is more blue lights in Isla Vista. We had a number of blue lights on campus, but none in our neighboring town - where a majority of students lived.... Read 4,751 reviews
#11 Best Colleges in California.
University of California - Santa Barbara
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
SANTA BARBARA, CA,
4751 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says The highlight of my experience at UCSB was its student life! During my time as an undergraduate, I was very active on campus and involved myself in various clubs and organizations. I met many of my...Another highlight was living in Isla Vista. I lived in an off-campus apartment with my friends during my Sophomore to Senior years and loved it!As far as changes go, I think improvements can be made towards food options and safety. I felt that we were quite limited as to what we could eat - both on and off campus. I would have liked to see....
Read 4751 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 26%,
Net Price: $16,874,
SAT Range: 1230-1460,
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Junior: UC Davis, part of the prestigious University of California system, stands out as a renowned institution renowned for its excellence in education, research, and community engagement. Located in Davis, California, it boasts a sprawling campus known for its agricultural roots and commitment to sustainability. With over 100 undergraduate majors and 90 graduate programs, UC Davis offers a diverse range of academic opportunities across disciplines, including engineering, veterinary medicine, environmental science, and the arts. The university prides itself on fostering a collaborative and inclusive learning environment, where students are encouraged to explore their passions and make meaningful contributions to society. Its faculty comprises leading scholars and researchers dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation.... Read 5,660 reviews
#12 Best Colleges in California.
University of California - Davis
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
DAVIS, CA,
5660 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says UC Davis, part of the prestigious University of California system, stands out as a renowned institution renowned for its excellence in education, research, and community engagement. Located in Davis,...The university prides itself on fostering a collaborative and inclusive learning environment, where students are encouraged to explore their passions and make meaningful contributions to society. Its....
Read 5660 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 37%,
Net Price: $17,385,
SAT Range: 1160-1400,
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Freshman: Attending National University fully online has been a unique experience for me. While I miss the in-person interactions and campus atmosphere, I appreciate the flexibility and convenience that their classes offer me. It has challenged me to be more disciplined and independent in managing my time and workload. Overall, my online National University experience has been a positive one.... Read 1,183 reviews
#13 Best Colleges in California.
National University
4 Year,
LA JOLLA, CA,
1183 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Attending National University fully online has been a unique experience for me. While I miss the in-person interactions and campus atmosphere, I appreciate the flexibility and convenience that their....
Read 1183 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 55%,
Net Price: $30,527,
SAT Range: 750-1170,
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Sophomore: Like everything, there are ups and downs and days where I wish I were back home with my dogs, but I love Occidental College, and I've had such a great experience so far. I am only a sophomore and have already taken a wide diversity of courses with phenomenal professors, met incredible friends, and have had many opportunities to help professors with their research. I have an environmental science concentration with my major and have worked in my biology professor's lab since the first semester of my first year! Being at Oxy, a small school, enables me to build a great network of mentors and participate in undergraduate research throughout the school year and independent paid research over the summer. Ultimately, I have loved the experiences of being at Oxy and being able to take a comprehensive arrangement of courses and do stem research.... Read 512 reviews
#14 Best Colleges in California.
Occidental College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
LOS ANGELES, CA,
512 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Like everything, there are ups and downs and days where I wish I were back home with my dogs, but I love Occidental College, and I've had such a great experience so far. I am only a sophomore and....
Read 512 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 39%,
Net Price: $44,853,
SAT Range: 1370-1510,
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Freshman: USD is a really great school, but applicants should keep in mind that it is a private Catholic institution. From my experience, there are not a lot of queer students, or at least they're hard to find. As a queer student, it is hard finding that community sometimes. However, I haven't had any bad professor experiences and the campus is beautiful. It is very difficult to get places though as you can't really walk anywhere and rideshare services are expensive. There is also no food on campus that is not University food, so be prepared to be sick of the ~five restaurants you can choose from. Some housing is awesome, some isn't. Do your research before applying to live in specific areas! Overall though, it has been a very welcoming environment and I've never felt unsafe on campus. I've walked around very early in the morning and the only thing I feared was the raccoons (just kidding, I love them. There's lots of them here!).... Read 1,966 reviews
#15 Best Colleges in California.
University of San Diego
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
SAN DIEGO, CA,
1966 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says USD is a really great school, but applicants should keep in mind that it is a private Catholic institution. From my experience, there are not a lot of queer students, or at least they're hard to....
Read 1966 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 53%,
Net Price: $36,008,
SAT Range: 1190-1370,
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Sophomore: Well, I just completed my first year as a freshman, and it was pretty good! Because it was my first year, I initially struggled a lot with making friends and putting myself out there, but eventually I was lucky enough to meet some fun people and I gained the energy and motivation to attend school events! The campus is gorgeous, even on a cloudy day, and the students attending the school are pretty chill and fun to be around! There is definitely a strong community, and there's plenty of opportunities for free food, stuff to do in your free time, and ways to connect with people! Dorming is a pretty good experience too, mostly thanks to the amenities and meal plans available. There's also a community within each dorm group, so no matter where you choose to live, there's good things about each of them.... Read 4,922 reviews
#16 Best Colleges in California.
California State University - Long Beach
4 Year,
LONG BEACH, CA,
4922 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Well, I just completed my first year as a freshman, and it was pretty good! Because it was my first year, I initially struggled a lot with making friends and putting myself out there, but eventually....
Read 4922 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 40%,
Net Price: $9,346,
SAT Range: 1020-1240,
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Junior: The person who posted the review starting "These negative reviews of Pitzer College are strange" is absolutely insensible. Do you not see the topics raised in these reviews? Does health discrimination have anything to do with an issue caused by a student? Pitzer is in a way a very good school academically, and in terms of opportunities given to students. However, in terms of certain other things, mainly relating to administration, it transforms into a very bad school that actively attempts to create an image, as seen by that review, of being entirely not dysfunctional, when this is false. Please read any TSL article about Pitzer in the last half decade. It's the 5C with the most negative articles about its administration, certain actions by students, and sometimes faculty and administration. It's sad, surprising, and embarrassing, for a school and community that holds its set of core values to not follow its values, but actively try create the impression that it does.... Read 654 reviews
#17 Best Colleges in California.
Pitzer College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CLAREMONT, CA,
654 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says The person who posted the review starting "These negative reviews of Pitzer College are strange" is absolutely insensible. Do you not see the topics raised in these reviews? Does health....
Read 654 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 18%,
Net Price: $39,809,
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Freshman: Unfortunately, the only experience I have had thus far with Loyola Marymount is a few campus visitations as well as an enrollment confirmation meeting for the upcoming fall semester. These experiences, however, make my future endeavors at the university seem promising. My encounters with students and faculty thus far have been wonderful; everyone I have met seems polite and friendly. Furthermore, the class of my major will be one with fewer students. This will allow me to form better connections with my peers and professors according to what I have been told by faculty. Although lacking experience now, I am excited about my future experience as an incoming undergraduate of Loyola Marymount University.... Read 1,763 reviews
#18 Best Colleges in California.
Loyola Marymount University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
LOS ANGELES, CA,
1763 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Unfortunately, the only experience I have had thus far with Loyola Marymount is a few campus visitations as well as an enrollment confirmation meeting for the upcoming fall semester. These....
Read 1763 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Acceptance Rate: 41%,
Net Price: $52,815,
SAT Range: 1300-1460,
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Alum: Cal Poly is an amazing school, the learn by doing philosophy was something that I personally really thrived in. All of the labs are very interactive and the small class sizes create an even better learning environment where it gives you the opportunity to really learn from your professors and have more one on one conversations with them during class. The people are very welcoming everywhere as well. And the town is a perfect college town with great weather and lots of outdoor activities nearby! Highly recommend attending this college.... Read 4,022 reviews
#19 Best Colleges in California.
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA,
4022 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Cal Poly is an amazing school, the learn by doing philosophy was something that I personally really thrived in. All of the labs are very interactive and the small class sizes create an even better....
Read 4022 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Acceptance Rate: 30%,
Net Price: $19,184,
SAT Range: 1220-1410,
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Junior: San Diego State University (SDSU) offers a well-rounded experience. The campus is beautiful, with traditional and modern architecture and well-kept green spaces. San Diego’s climate is near-perfect, with mild winters and warm, sunny summers. The location provides a peaceful retreat with city access. Academically, SDSU has highs and lows. There are inspiring professors and some who fall short. The university offers excellent facilities and resources, supporting proactive students. The social scene is vibrant and diverse, fostering a strong community, though it can be overwhelming. Numerous clubs and events make it easy to form lasting friendships. Dining options are diverse, enhancing campus life. Most importantly, SDSU’s diverse student body creates a rich, supportive community. For those who enjoy California weather, seek more-than-above-average education, and a vibrant social life, SDSU is an excellent choice.... Read 5,457 reviews
#20 Best Colleges in California.
San Diego State University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
SAN DIEGO, CA,
5457 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says San Diego State University (SDSU) offers a well-rounded experience. The campus is beautiful, with traditional and modern architecture and well-kept green spaces. San Diego’s climate is near-perfect,...Academically, SDSU has highs and lows. There are inspiring professors and some who fall short. The university offers excellent facilities and resources, supporting proactive students. The social...Dining options are diverse, enhancing campus life. Most importantly, SDSU’s diverse student body creates a rich, supportive community. For those who enjoy California weather, seek....
Read 5457 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Acceptance Rate: 39%,
Net Price: $13,017,
SAT Range: 1090-1300,
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Graduate Student: Pepperdine is a long-standing Church of Christ university that received mostly private funding. Tuition can be quite high but will pay off on a resume or for connections within certain job markets. The University also partners with large organizations such as Disney, The Cheesecake Factory, and more. This campus can increase more diversity in the student population, faculty, and staff. Malibu is a beautiful campus, though, with study areas overlooking the ocean. Other campuses include Calabasas, West LA, and Irvine although students may want to live outside of these areas to save more on housing. Additionally, campus recreation, fitness classes, and sporting events are a lot of fun and help create more camaraderie between students and staff.... Read 1,375 reviews
#21 Best Colleges in California.
Pepperdine University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
MALIBU, CA,
1375 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Graduate Student says Pepperdine is a long-standing Church of Christ university that received mostly private funding. Tuition can be quite high but will pay off on a resume or for connections within certain job markets.....
Read 1375 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Acceptance Rate: 49%,
Net Price: $47,804,
SAT Range: 1280-1480,
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Freshman: SCU is just perfect!!! As the oldest university in California, it offers anything you want with robust academic programs in all areas including business, engineering, humanities, social sciences, health sciences, natural sciences, visual arts, and performing arts as well as super plentiful extracurriculars such as cultural organizations that will host plentiful annual culture shows every year and great Greek life with a combination of community services and career-focused academia. Despite white people making up the majority of SCU's student population, the school is still very diverse, everyone I met here is super friendly and enthusiastic, and they all want you to succeed. The academia here is super collaborative and passionate, almost all professors are expressing their passion for their fields through effective lectures and activities to help students feel more connected and succeed. Located in the world-famous Silicon Valley, you will definitely be able to find an internship!!!... Read 1,485 reviews
#22 Best Colleges in California.
Santa Clara University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
SANTA CLARA, CA,
1485 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says SCU is just perfect!!! As the oldest university in California, it offers anything you want with robust academic programs in all areas including business, engineering, humanities, social sciences,....
Read 1485 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Acceptance Rate: 52%,
Net Price: $50,551,
SAT Range: 1290-1480,
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Junior: My time at Point Loma Nazarene University was transformative and memorable in countless ways. From the moment I set foot on the stunning oceanfront campus, I felt welcomed and inspired by the vibrant community and the breathtaking views. The faculty and staff are genuinely invested in students' success, providing personalized attention and support that goes beyond academics. One of the highlights of my experience was the close-knit community. The small class sizes allowed for meaningful interactions with professors, who were not just educators but mentors. Their open-door policies and willingness to engage in deep, thoughtful discussions made learning a deeply enriching experience. The relationships I built with my peers were equally valuable, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie.... Read 1,056 reviews
#23 Best Colleges in California.
Point Loma Nazarene University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
SAN DIEGO, CA,
1056 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says My time at Point Loma Nazarene University was transformative and memorable in countless ways. From the moment I set foot on the stunning oceanfront campus, I felt welcomed and inspired by the vibrant...One of the highlights of my experience was the close-knit community. The small class sizes allowed for meaningful interactions with professors, who were not just educators but mentors. Their....
Read 1056 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Acceptance Rate: 82%,
Net Price: $34,933,
SAT Range: 1170-1350,
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Alum: The last four years that I have spent at Biola were transformational, and I am so grateful for my time at the university. As an English major, I was challenged both academically and spiritually. Each of my professors within the English department was intentional in supporting my growth, taking the time to know me as a student and as an individual. In addition to my studies in English, Biola also enabled me to graduate with my Secondary Education teaching credential and minors in Psychology and Bible. My experience with these diverse fields has prepared me well to serve adolescents as a middle school English teacher this fall! The community at Biola is welcoming, genuine, and passionate about following Jesus. For Biolans, faith is not an afterthought or something to be explored in Bible classes, but rather a vibrant walk with Christ that spills over into our learning, our conversations, and our relationships. I can't say enough good about Biola University. Come and see for yourself!... Read 2,331 reviews
#24 Best Colleges in California.
Biola University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
LA MIRADA, CA,
2331 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says The last four years that I have spent at Biola were transformational, and I am so grateful for my time at the university. As an English major, I was challenged both academically and spiritually. Each....
Read 2331 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Acceptance Rate: 57%,
Net Price: $31,522,
SAT Range: 1080-1320,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
Graduate Student: Pursuing a MFA in Film Directing at Chapman has been a transformative journey marked by both academic rigor and creative exploration. The program’s comprehensive curriculum offers a deep dive into the art and craft of filmmaking, emphasizing hands-on experience and innovative storytelling techniques. The diverse faculty, comprised of industry professionals and seasoned educators, provides invaluable mentorship, guiding me through the nuances of directing, from conceptualization to final cut. Collaborating with peers in this immersive environment fosters a dynamic exchange of ideas and perspectives, enriching my creative process. The vibrant campus life and close-knit film community further enhance my learning experience, offering opportunities to network and engage with fellow artists. As I navigate this rigorous yet rewarding path, I’m continuously inspired and challenged, honing my skills and expanding my creative vision in preparation for a successful career in filmmaking.... Read 2,305 reviews
#25 Best Colleges in California.
Chapman University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ORANGE, CA,
2305 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Graduate Student says Pursuing a MFA in Film Directing at Chapman has been a transformative journey marked by both academic rigor and creative exploration. The program’s comprehensive curriculum offers a deep dive into....
Read 2305 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Acceptance Rate: 73%,
Net Price: $45,033,
SAT Range: 1200-1400,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
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ECPI University - Online
4 Year (Online)
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Washington and Lee University
4 Year·
LEXINGTON, VA
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Rating 4.01 out of 5 475
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Bridgewater College
4 Year·
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The Best Colleges in California

Are you thinking about attending college in California? Choosing a school can be daunting when you lack the right tools. It can be even harder to pick a school in a place like California, a state full of so many great school options. But here at Niche, we have all the tools you need to ensure that your decision-making process goes smoothly. Let us help you in your search for the best colleges in California. Our rankings are all 100% backed by facts, with a based on data from academic, admissions, financial, student life, student outcomes, and student survey data, so you know that you are getting the best information possible with no bias.

What Are Schools Like in California?

On Niche, you will find that California is home to over 500 colleges and universities, a healthy mix of four-year and two-year institutions with program choices to meet your needs. Prestigious universities like and the among the best universities in California, offer world-renowned academic programs. They grant four-year bachelor and graduate degrees.

If attending a university is not for you, Niche can help you find one of the many and in California to meet your educational goals.

Two-year degree programs are great for any student, especially those looking for skills to enter the workforce. Two-year colleges typically offer transfer programs to make transferring into a four-year school later seamless. Several of the best-known two-year degree schools include and .

California also has trade schools for students interested in learning a trade in two years or less. Trade schools tend to be less expensive than colleges and universities and offer programs that focus on high-skilled professions with high salary potential.

What Does California Have To Offer?

California is as diverse as it is geographically large. There is much to explore, whether you connect with a school in the northern wine region of the state or one in sunny Southern California. Niche can make your choice easier by narrowing the choices to reflect what you want from a school and its location.

California is incredibly vibrant, offering bustling cities, more-than-enough beaches, amusement parks, natural beauties, and wonders like nowhere else in the United States. You can go to school down the street from the Golden Gate Bridge or a train ride away from Disneyland. Whatever you choose, there will always be something to do, explore, and enjoy in California.

Expand Your Studies West in California

Choosing any of the best colleges or universities in California can be challenging. You have many factors to consider, especially if relocating from out of state. Here at Niche, we can help make your search streamlined and simple. You can enter factors critical to your decision in our search filters. Whether you’re looking for a school close to a big city, a school known for its party scene, or a school with a high acceptance rate, we can help. Let us help you find your best fit at one of the best colleges in California.

Quick references

Rank	School Name	Location
1	Stanford University	Stanford, CA
2	Harvey Mudd College	Claremont, CA
3	California Institute of Technology	Pasadena, CA
4	Pomona College	Claremont, CA
5	University of California - Los Angeles	Los Angeles, CA
6	Claremont McKenna College	Claremont, CA
7	University of Southern California	Los Angeles, CA
8	University of California - Berkeley	Berkeley, CA
9	University of California - Irvine	Irvine, CA
10	University of California - San Diego	La Jolla, CA
11	University of California - Santa Barbara	Santa Barbara, CA
12	University of California - Davis	Davis, CA
13	National University	La Jolla, CA
14	Occidental College	Los Angeles, CA
15	University of San Diego	San Diego, CA
16	California State University - Long Beach	Long Beach, CA
17	Pitzer College	Claremont, CA
18	Loyola Marymount University	Los Angeles, CA
19	Cal Poly San Luis Obispo	San Luis Obispo, CA
20	San Diego State University	San Diego, CA
21	Pepperdine University	Malibu, CA
22	Santa Clara University	Santa Clara, CA
23	Point Loma Nazarene University	San Diego, CA
24	Biola University	La Mirada, CA
25	Chapman University	Orange, CA

2024 Best Colleges in California

Best programs

Students

Social scene

Campus

Athletics

Stanford University

Stanford University

Harvey Mudd College

Harvey Mudd College

California Institute of Technology

California Institute of Technology

Pomona College

Pomona College

University of California - Los Angeles

University of California - Los Angeles

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont McKenna College

University of Southern California

University of Southern California

University of California - Berkeley

University of California - Berkeley

University of California - Irvine

University of California - Irvine

University of California - San Diego

University of California - San Diego

University of California - Santa Barbara

University of California - Santa Barbara

University of California - Davis

University of California - Davis

National University

National University

Occidental College

Occidental College

University of San Diego

University of San Diego

California State University - Long Beach

California State University - Long Beach

Pitzer College

Pitzer College

Loyola Marymount University

Loyola Marymount University

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

San Diego State University

San Diego State University

Pepperdine University