2024 Best College Locations in California

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  1,043 reviews

Alum: I look back at my time at PLNU with gratitude and fondness. It is where I gained my education, found my lifetime friends and healed from an autoimmune disease I was battling. I wouldn’t change a thing about my experience. My professors were always so willing to help and they constantly encouraged us in our work and in our faith. They made me believe I could go out in the world as an adult and create change. I hope that prospective. students can be encouraged by this to take that leap of faith and dive in. Dive into the community at PLNU, dive into your education, and dive into yourself and find what you believe.... Read 1,043 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $34,851

• SAT range 1170-1350

• San Francisco, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  2,342 reviews

Alum: As a transfer and commuter student, I was nervous I would not be able to form connections and make the most of my two years at USF, but I feel so grateful that was not the case. I loved all of my professors, made personal relationships with them, and even was able to experience the incredible opportunity to work as a research assistant and attend a research conference to present our work. I took advantage of USF's resources such as Counseling and Psychological Services and had a great experience with everyone I interacted with who worked at the school. I was awarded significant aid which made it possible for me to attend and eventually get accepted to my dream graduate school program!... Read 2,342 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $39,825

• SAT range 1190-1390

• San Francisco, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  2,495 reviews

Senior: Personally, I'm loving being a student at AAU! I am a full time student taking classes entirely online, which has been a life saver for me. With my remote location and anxiety struggles, there's no way I would have been able to attend any school in person, and Academy of Art is one of the very few colleges that offer an art degree online. This alone was a huge selling point for me when deciding what I wanted to do with me future. I knew I needed an "in between" step from graduating highschool to entering into the industry, and taking classes here has accomplished that 100%--the classes are accessible for complete beginners in the field, and the pacing of each week is just enough to push you without breaking you. I've had only great interactions with the instructors, and they have been a vital part in improving my drawing skills. The homework usually gives us a ton of creative freedom.... Read 2,495 reviews

• grade C+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $32,593

• SAT range —

• Costa Mesa, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  929 reviews

Freshman: Vanguard University is a good university that has ties to the Assemblies of God denomination. As with anything, there are things that they could be better about, but being a small Christian university, they provide a lot of opportunities for their students.... Read 929 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $20,427

• SAT range 980-1200

• San Francisco, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.54 out of 5  91 reviews

Freshman: What I like the most about Minerva is the unique platform for the lessons. I love the sense of real-class experience it provides although it allows every student to connect to the class from anywhere. Furthermore, there is no school campus but many students say the city is the campus, and it is true! You get to know every corner of the city rather than binding to one campus, which is more incredible - the rotation city changes each semester or every year (depending on the year of study). Hence, you get to know the world around you and travel while studying.... Read 91 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 1%

• Net price $17,432

• SAT range —

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  5,581 reviews

Alum: It was amazing! I came to UCLA as a 3rd year transfer student meaning I had more perks than some of those who came in as freshmen. The housing I did off-campus apartment dorms which was amazing. They are like luxury apartments with plenty of space for roommates with open kitchens and fully furnished. The campus has a strong sense of community and it's easy to find friends and people you can connect with both in and out of your majors and initial interests. The college town Westwood is built against Beverly Hills and close to Rhodeo Drive, meaning it's not uncommon to spot a celebrity here and there. The local theaters host recarpets and UCLA students are often given entry to the premiers. the professors in my major (Art History) were some of the kindest and most interesting people I will have the pleasure to meet. My only issue is the workload, if you get overwhelmed easily, it's not the school for you. The quarter system is a monster for any major.... Read 5,581 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $13,393

• SAT range —

• Hollywood, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  429 reviews

Freshman: My experience with the los angeles film school, has been very good so far, i love my instructors such as brent allen winston guy and also many others and also with my classmates which everyone has been very kind towards me and i have enjoyed my classes and everyone so much, and also learning digital literacy along the way, which has been nice but overall everything has been good, and i have.. done the best i can to my ability to handle the funding and expenses. required, and everything else that i need to do and apply to scholarships to that the payment, can be funded for. whcih i have been doing my best. and with everything that i can and in my will. and i really appreciate the finanical aid department with their help and also guiding me in the right way and path.... Read 429 reviews

• grade C minus

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $33,990

• SAT range —

• Hollywood, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.02 out of 5  88 reviews

Other: It's a great learning environment where musicians can grow and have successful networking opportunities.... Read 88 reviews

• grade C+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $36,686

• SAT range —

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,958 reviews

Sophomore: I have really enjoyed the small classes sizes here at San Diego. It is very nice to be able to go into office hours and talk to my professors. However, at the same time, the school does not feel too small. It is a very nice balance of a small community, but not too small. I have also found it nice to be on a liberal arts campus. As an engineering student, I interact with similar people every day, so it is nice to have friends in other majors, that I had the chance to meet in my required liberals classes. University of San Diego is one of the only liberal arts schools with an engineering program. I have benefitted a lot from balancing my highly technical classes with liberal arts classes. The balanced program is truly making me a more well rounded student and person. Additionally, I have heard from potential employers and recruiters that they appreciate the fact that engineering students at the University of San Diego graduate with both an BA and BS in engineering.... Read 1,958 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $34,155

• SAT range 1190-1370

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  5,413 reviews

Alum: I had the unique experience of transferring to San Diego State University during the pandemic. My junior year was fully online so I didn't get to experience campus life or get a feel for the community the school has built, as it's very hard to make connections with a lot of people through a screen. The professors were all very understanding and accommodating. In my time here I learned a lot of valuable information from professors who are well spoken and knowledgable. It never felt like the coursework I was given was just busywork, but applicable to what my career goal was. My senior year I did partially online and on campus, but at this point I just wanted to be finished. I wish I had given campus life a bigger chance that way I could've made connections with other people, but unfortunately I didn't get to experience that side of SDSU. However, I can attest that their academics were and still are very valuable to me!... Read 5,413 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 38%

• Net price $6,867

• SAT range 1090-1300

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,192 reviews

Freshman: Teachers are very student oriented due to the fact that it is a small school. They are always willing to offer additional help and have past students host tutoring sessions. Anytime you don't understand a concept or do poorly on a test, there is always someone that can help you learn to do better on the next exam. Another thing that I like about the school is that there are a lot of oportunities to get on campus jobs and the job departments help you in building your resume and don't require experience. They are also very understanding when you can't go to work because of academics.... Read 1,192 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $24,508

• SAT range 900-1110

• Berkeley, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  4,471 reviews

Alum: My experience at Berkeley was profoundly positive. Each school possesses its own distinctive personality, and Berkeley stands out for its constant engagement with societal issues. The university maintains a steadfast connection with the broader community, addressing pressing social concerns head-on. Students at Berkeley are remarkably passionate about effecting meaningful change in the world. Whether through activism, research, or community involvement, there's an undeniable drive among students to make a difference. Berkeley fosters an environment where such aspirations are nurtured and supported, instilling in its students a sense of purpose and a commitment to contributing positively to society.... Read 4,471 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 14%

• Net price $17,652

• SAT range 1310-1530

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.28 out of 5  25 reviews

Freshman: CBD is popular for their diagnostic career programs. The application process is simple. The instructors are very kind and helpful. The classes are mainly online for the first few months, you then take in person labs and externships for the technical practice.... Read 25 reviews

• grade C+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $15,123

• SAT range —

• Irvine, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  558 reviews

Senior: I enjoy the flexibility of an online college. The staff have always been fast and reliable when responding back through email or text messages. The course work meets all of the degree requirements. The technology that is used for their classes are user-friendly and doesn't require a lot of computer knowledge. Overall, I have enjoyed my time with this college and would recommend it.... Read 558 reviews

• grade B

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $26,346

• SAT range —

• La Jolla, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  1,172 reviews

Graduate Student: I am in the teacher credential program and I am loving it. I used to get overwhelmed and bored with standard semester classes but at NU, I take 1 class every 4 weeks. I focus on the information for 1 class at a time and the course progresses quickly so I don’t get bored and the course requirements are reasonable, especially since most of the class participants work full time and have families. This has been a wonderful experience!... Read 1,172 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 55%

• Net price $9,966

• SAT range 750-1170

• San Francisco, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  392 reviews

Freshman: The area that the school is in is in a safe area in San Francisco, Its also near areas that college students can destress on the weekend. Their resources here provide success for their students and most of their professors are current working artists.... Read 392 reviews

• grade C+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $40,231

• SAT range —

• La Jolla, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  3,975 reviews

Alum: UC San Diego provides a wonderful environment to foster growth and fun in your undergrad experience. Students and faculty are friendly, caring, and eager to help make your time there as positive as can be. While the party scene isn't exactly what the school is known for, San Diego is a very fun, hip, and young area that you can and should explore to get out those college partying urges! The academics are outstanding and offer great success post-graduation. The campus is gorgeous and offers fun events throughout the week.... Read 3,975 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 34%

• Net price $15,632

• SAT range —

• Irvine, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  4,266 reviews

Alum: UCI boasts a stunning campus with modern architecture nestled in a beautifully landscaped environment. The layout is convenient, making it easy to navigate between classes, dorms, and recreational facilities. The abundance of green spaces and outdoor seating areas fosters a sense of community and relaxation. UCI's dining options are diverse and cater to a range of dietary preferences. From international cuisines to local favorites, there's something for everyone. The campus boasts numerous dining halls, cafes, and food trucks, ensuring that students never go hungry. The quality of food is generally good. Located in the heart of Orange County, UCI benefits from its proximity to vibrant cities like Irvine, Newport Beach, and Anaheim. Students have access to a wide range of cultural attractions, entertainment venues, shopping centers, and outdoor activities. Public transportation options make it easy to explore the surrounding area, although traffic can be a challenge at times.... Read 4,266 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $11,633

• SAT range 1230-1430

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  115 reviews

Freshman: I have really enjoyed the ultrasound program! From the advisors to the instructors, everyone has been exponential. It has been a fast past program but has been work every minute! I would recommend this program to anyone in the area.... Read 115 reviews

• grade B

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $23,355

• SAT range —

• Sacramento, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  3,918 reviews

Alum: I was a fairly boring student so I didn't do a lot, but I did enjoy going to Sac State. There were some good food options, as well as a lot of open spaces for people to relax and study or sleep before work. My favorite places were the terminal lounge to rest, and the different centers. I made a lot of friends through various events they hosted, as well as spending time in the MCC (Multicultural Center) the Pride Center, and the WRC (Women's Resource Center.) In terms of the the professors, my own personal opinion - I'm a big fan of the College of Arts and Letters, but there are a few professors who take themselves way to seriously and treat you like children. They mean well, but it can be really frustrating to have everything you're doing monitored as if still in high school. I had a professor passive aggressively email me because I, a grown, tuition paying woman, had been briefly on my phone. It helps to just play their little game for the semester and move on.... Read 3,918 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $7,778

• SAT range 930-1130

• Fullerton, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  288 reviews

Alum: Hope International University is a family. Due to the small class sizes and the small campus, I got to know my professors and classmates very closely. I enjoyed all the activities on campus like spiritual services, fun games, and simply hanging out. The fellowship is unique from anywhere else I have been.... Read 288 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 40%

• Net price $18,801

• SAT range 1000-1180

• Santa Barbara, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  630 reviews

Freshman: My first year at Westmont has been an amazing experience. I've met so many great people and participated in a lot of great opportunities. The academics at Westmont are rigorous yet manageable, and there are many available resources for students. Westmont takes its athletics seriously and boasts many incredible athletes. The music program is great and performs multiple concerts for students and the local community. The theatre and arts programs have many opportunities to put on shows and showcase their work. There are multiple interest clubs and informal hobby groups on campus as well. Housing is very hit or miss. Students have to pay the same amount of money for older run-down dorms as they would for nice new buildings. Food here can be good sometimes, but run out of foods often and don't restock very quickly. People generally complain that food is a bit dry or unseasoned. That being said, the pros do outweigh the cons and I would highly recommend Westmont to people!... Read 630 reviews

• grade B

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $33,554

• SAT range 1110-1460

• Seaside, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  1,762 reviews

Graduate Student: I had an amazing time at CSUMB. My first semester was online, but once I got back to face to face education, my life completely changed. You can not attend CSUMB via online courses. You need to be there in person. The staff are all very intelligent and educated. The fellow students are extremely friendly and I am proud to say I have made friends for life through this school. The whole university has this “be whoever you want” energy that I have not experienced with other colleges. No one is an outcast at this school. You can make friends anywhere whether it be in the library, the Starbucks in the OSU, or just in class. I felt a great sense of freedom and independence during my time at CSUMB. I loved how walkable the campus was. Everything is relatively close to each other. I would like to see something done about the parking situation. It is tough to find parking spots after 10am. Other than that, I have nothing but good things to say about this university.... Read 1,762 reviews

• grade B

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $6,085

• SAT range 960-1170

• Irvine, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  112 reviews

Other: I understand that SSO’s are busy dealing with hundreds of students! But It would be great to actually have consistent and the same answers for example when it comes to remediation of classes, absents, tardiness, & etc! They can be very strict with attendance which is understandable, but we as students who’s paying tuition fees that we with hard to pay for, needs good consistent not all over the place answers! Reach out to me when you want more details and I’ll be happy to share all of them!... Read 112 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 10%

• Net price $36,905

• SAT range —

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  1,751 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Loyola Marymount University this year has been not only different, challenging, and difficult -- but also engaging, exciting, and very eye opening to me. I am from Texas, so a completely different state was something I knew I'd be scared and hesitant to do. However, upon moving into my housing, and getting to know the people here, I've felt more at home each and every day time passes by. The academics, especially me being a Chemistry major, are difficult, but not impossible. The professors here are very engaging with us as students and truly want us to strive to reach our goals -- they want the best for us, and they push alongside us for it. I admire each and every person at my school for their talents. I, though, would like to see change towards being more involved with the community, specifically towards helping those that are in a rough area in their life and are struggling. The community is so lively, so seeing it apply that to those struggling would be amazing.... Read 1,751 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $40,180

• SAT range 1250-1420