2024 Best Colleges with High Acceptance Rates in California

• Los Altos Hills, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  506 reviews

Junior: I have been at Foothill for almost three years now and throughout these past years I feel like I am very satisfied with my education here. To begin, the professors show that they care for their students by being flexible to meet with students one on one and they are very big on advocating for diversity within their classrooms. In every class I have taken, the professors make it a point to emphasize the importance of valuing everyone in the class. Most importantly, the professors provide students with the information of almost every resource that is available to us such as tutoring, mental health services , and financial aid resources. What I also really love about the school is the campus. The style of the campus gives me an old town vibe and I completely fell in love with it. There are so many trees and open space so it is possible to study or do homework at the tables that are spread out in the quad. Overall, this school is a good choice to keep in mind!... Read 506 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,820

• SAT range —

• Livermore, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  603 reviews

Freshman: If you're considering attending a 2-year college after high school, I would definitely look into Las Positas. To begin, the campus is beautiful, as it's clean, tranquil, spacious, and near facilities for different needs. The environment presents itself to be healthy due to the fact that most professors at this campus are caring, very patient, and passionate about helping students. Besides the professors and staff playing an important role in the atmosphere of the community at Las Positas, there are countless opportunities offered and several different types of benefits. LPC's own mini-mart was made public on campus for students who can't struggle to pay for necessary things. How amazing is that! Besides this, there is always some time of even going on that helps students on their paths to success one way or another. Las Positas is a gateway to bettering your future, especially if you plan on transferring to a 4 year!... Read 603 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,675

• SAT range —

• Santa Barbara, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  1,019 reviews

Freshman: My first semester at SBCC I took 2 online courses and 2 in-person courses. I really liked how simple the online courses were. I never had trouble turning in online assignments, contacting teachers, or asking for help. I also enjoyed how much the teachers cared even though we weren't seeing each other on a daily basis. They emialed us to make sure we were on track and always provided resources for extra help. The professors were also very educated on how to use the online format. My in-person classes were just as good. The professors truly cared about the work they put out. I took an acting and journalism class with amazing professors who pushed me to do better and made the class fun. Overall my time at SBCC was great!... Read 1,019 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $14,000

• SAT range —

• Pasadena, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  1,782 reviews

Freshman: Pasadena City College while not a highly connected community, is a very pleasant and friendly one. Students tend to keep to themselves and professors are very eager to help their students succeed and are far more willing to communicate with their students than in my previous college experiences. It will not be easy! You will need to put in hard work, and utilize all resources available to you should you want to pull off those A grades. The campus is sweet and small, relatively quiet and nestled right next to many boba shops and fast food options for busier students who need a quick meal to tide them over. Be it working night shifts, day shifts, or anything in-between; if you are willing to communicate with professors they will do all in their power to accommodate you. Overall while students tend to keep to themselves, some of the best friendships I've made were through PCC. I discovered both my patience and my grit with the Pasadena Lancers, proud to have been apart of the family... Read 1,782 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,466

• SAT range —

• Walnut, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  1,931 reviews

Sophomore: After I graduated high school I went straight to college, Mt. SAC. My freshman year was a little difficult to adjust to because of the way the class schedules are. For instance, the math class was only 2 days a week in person and the rest was online, so I was frustrated in having to teach myself the what was being recorded on lecture videos. However, Mt. SAC has specific tutor centers for each subject! Also, I am an athlete there so there is a WIN program that is very beneficial. The staff are always so helpful and supportive, so that really means a lot that I can count on having an encouraging environment go to when I need extra help.... Read 1,931 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,774

• SAT range —

• Fremont, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  451 reviews

Freshman: I'm only a freshman but so far, all of the staff members are excellent! They all try their best to help you achieve your goals and work with you to help you become your best self. The counseling department of the campus is also very helpful, and they do a fantastic job at helping you plan your next few years at Ohlone so you can attain the credits and degree that you may need for your career goal. This school is a very transfer friendly school and I've heard many great things from transfer alums that are now studying at four years universities.... Read 451 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,787

• SAT range —

• Santa Maria, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  752 reviews

Sophomore: The staff is beyond extraordinary! Felt like walking in and being greeted by a big family. Everyone there wants to see you succeed, and no question is a dumb question. I was very anxious to start college as a 27 year old, and they helped me overcome my fears and anxiousness and I’m tackling more than I thought I would in a semester!... Read 752 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,629

• SAT range —

• San Francisco, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,013 reviews

Junior: City College of San Francisco was such a grounding and fulfilling experience as a community college student. I enjoyed every course taken because of the in-depth teaching and open-mindedness of professors. Growing up in the Bay Area, it was very comforting to know that there are educators out there who are willing to go above and beyond for their students as well as the institution itself that is close to home. Much heart, passion, and hard work has gone into CCSF, and I hope the administration is able to continue working with such great faculty in the future. I will always remember and cherish my time at City!... Read 1,013 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,261

• SAT range —

• San Mateo, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  480 reviews

Other: College of San Mateo really impressed me as a community college. I was a high school students a part of the middle college program there. The amount of resources that you have access to as a student is mind blowing. From Mental Health Resources, to Disability resources, to an abundance of interesting classes, any goal you have with going to college, CSM has got your back. As far as things that could be changed, I would say that a kind of student to administration communication line needs to be opened. While it is the nature of college that professors essentially get free reign on their classroom, when I did have a problem with a professor that they refused to work out with me, I did not have anywhere to lobby my complaint, at least, to my knowledge. Other than, I absolutely recommend CSM to basically everyone! There is something for you here, no matter what you are looking for.... Read 480 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,427

• SAT range —

• South Lake Tahoe, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  69 reviews

Freshman: I love attending Lake Tahoe Community College! There is so much to do around Lake Tahoe wether that is outdoor adventures, going to school events, or finding new and fun places to eat. I wish the fires weren't so close to Tahoe, so I can enjoy the beautiful scenery. Absolutely love LTCC.... Read 69 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,867

• SAT range —

• Glendale, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  675 reviews

Sophomore: I love this school! Overall it's been a great experience being a student at GCC. The professors are mostly good, the classes are engaging and I've learned a lot, and the school administrators are very helpful. I've worked with many counselors and I feel very supported by my school, and I'm always learning about new groups or scholarship opportunities. The transfer center is also great and offers many resources for students looking to transfer with an Associates degree.... Read 675 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,823

• SAT range —

• San Luis Obispo, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  576 reviews

Sophomore: Cuesta was a great starting experience right out of high school to get a taste of college level courses, student life, and campus. Staff and faculty were great and always helpful, and there are plentiful resources aiding admissions, financial aid in AND out of school, job opportunities, career development and more. The current Cuesta website, as well as MyCuesta and Canvas, can all use some updates regarding contact information and site navigation, but once you get rolling it’s easy as pie. I’m an Art Major but it’s simple to change your major, navigate classes, review professors, and get in touch with counselors. I had to take many general education classes in the beginning as I was pursuing an AA degree, but I easily withdrew to only take art classes for a certificate instead. Great and easy! Also, a wonderful campus (SLO) with dozens of student life and event opportunities.... Read 576 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $14,586

• SAT range —

• Santa Monica, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  2,137 reviews

Freshman: I am currently a on campus Santa Monica College student. The energy on campus is very positive along with friendly students. The campus is also very diverse wit both students and teachers! There are a lot of food and drink choices all over the campus as well! The patio area near the cafe has a vast amount of tables and seating areas. Most of the class rooms look new and updated with both the buildings structure and the technology. The school also offers a large variety of different classes and the class options are very flexible to complicated schedules. Santa Monica College also offers a significant amount of extra help for students with learning disabilities. Most of the staff is friendly, welcoming, and helpful. There are also many clubs, fairs, and events on the Santa Monica campus. I personally believe that Santa Monica College is one of the best community college options available in California.... Read 2,137 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,380

• SAT range —

• Santa Clara, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  366 reviews

Junior: I enjoyed my experience at mission college. I met professors that became my mentors and helped me when applying to internships by writing letters of recommendation. I’m grateful to be in a campus that here I feel supported by the staff and peers. The counselors also aided me when I was applying for universities and always answered my many questions. I would like to see the textbook requirement fee change since some students such as myself could not afford the textbook and I had to resort to borrowing from my classmates.... Read 366 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,727

• SAT range —

• Norwalk, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  1,324 reviews

Niche User: The best decision I have ever made was to attend Cerritos College for my summer courses. My teachers' and counselors' support throughout all of my classes helped me finish with excellent grades. The college environment in Cerritos is diverse and conveniently located. It is convenient for us students to grab a bite to eat before class because the campus is close to many restaurants. The level of safety is incredible, with constant security ensuring that all students are secure during class hours and during various important events. At Cerritos College, the students are approachable and make it simple to form relationships. Sports in Cerritos are exciting and enjoyable, especially football games. #GoFalcons!... Read 1,324 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,557

• SAT range —

• Orange, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  375 reviews

Alum: The overall way the campus is set up and run is great. I enjoyed my classes here, and I had great professors! The classes are good quality for the most part, especially if you are going for general education. One downside is that they don't offer as many options for majors as other colleges do. Lots of clubs and activities happening here on a regular basis! The campus itself is pretty small, but the area is nice. It's usually a pretty safe place to be, even at night. Being a two year school, there isn't a lot of student housing or apartments nearby, which can make commutes a little difficult. Overall a great place to get started with school if you don't know where to go!... Read 375 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,879

• SAT range —

• Santa Rosa, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  1,318 reviews

Junior: I love Santa Rosa Junior College! From the beginning, I immediately fell in love with the small classroom setting, the one on one help and the connection you develop with your teacher due to the class size. I admire the campus life, and have found a loving community that I can be a part of. I truly love SRJC for making all of their services easily available and allowing everyone from all backgrounds to get an education with the low cost of classes. Their library is open most hours of the day for easy studying and have computer chargers at every table. They hold fresh farmers markets almost every week for their students to come by, and provide snacks during finals weeks. I admire this school for being so great and allowing me to better myself and grow mentally. The only thing that I would change about the Santa Rosa Junior College would be more unperson classes. I miss the experience of being in a classroom with others. Most of the classes are online which is kind of a bummer.... Read 1,318 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,220

• SAT range —

• Oceanside, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  932 reviews

Sophomore: I loved the stem tutoring center and the free snacks available in the cafeteria. Staff including library and especially professors are very helpful and kind. You definitely have to advocate for yourself but I’m sure you do at other community colleges and universities. There aren’t many sports but there’s a ton of clubs to choose from. There are many other programs at miracosta such as accommodations for student learning, an honors society, transfer center and more. The counselors are great and are really helpful with financial aid, picking classes, and scholarships. I have definitely learned a lot and am excited to learn more going into my second year. Highly recommend!... Read 932 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,946

• SAT range —

• Azusa, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  2,778 reviews

Graduate Student: The opportunity to become a graduate student at Azusa Pacific University came at great time in my life. As we were all getting through the pandemic, I had a lot of time think about whether I should go back to school, or not. I ended up applying for the Music Industry & Entrepreneurship program, and I'm glad I did. It's really been a blessing to me and my family, as I've been able to really dive in to the music industry and begin building a music company of my own. APU has assisted me in reaching my goal, and that's something that shouldn't be taken for granted. I'm certainly grateful, and glad to be a Cougar!... Read 2,778 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $27,112

• SAT range 1030-1260

• Cypress, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  1,044 reviews

Sophomore: I love Cypress College! I came here after being at a 4-year university for a bit, because I wanted to save money. Cypress hasn't disappointed. They have plenty of programs that help students of different backgrounds. I've been fortunate to have all my textbooks paid for by the VRC. The STEM Program also provides amazing resources to students, including books loans and other perks. Campus provides free breakfasts and lunches for all students. If you're involved in clubs, there's so much potential to build a community for yourself. I generally feel safe on campus. Surrounding area has a lot of good restaurants and stores. Academics are good, but I've only had experience with STEM. I'm sure quality varies by professor since many are adjunct/not tenured; make use of RateMyProfessors. Overall I've had a wonderful experience here. Community colleges are a great financial decision, and Cypress College makes it a great educational and social experience as well.... Read 1,044 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,951

• SAT range —

• San Diego, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  956 reviews

Sophomore: Overall, San Diego Mesa college is a perfectly fine school and honestly, probably your best choice in terms of community colleges in San Diego. They have a lot of opportunities and various resources to help disadvantaged students acclimate properly into the school. More often then not, the professors at Mesa are really passionate and inspiring within their classes - just be sure to always check ratemyprofessor first!... Read 956 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,663

• SAT range —

• Redwood City, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  255 reviews

Graduate Student: Dear I am glad to been here! I am Natan Assefa Abebe from Ethiopia. I have more than 13 years experience in Pharmacy Technician field. I'm have Diploma in Pharmacy Technician. In my experience I am a solution maker, inoviator or finder of ways to do and upgrade the existing work to the upgrade level and finder of new one. Through the pass of a years I want to upgrade my education and my life style. But what was the difficult to do so is money. I have not money to upgrade my education and my life also. That's why I am starting to get the opportunity of making money, searching opportunities to get money, Sponsors and scholarships. I Hope, You will Help Me until I achieve my dream and goal. Thank you So!... Read 255 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,923

• SAT range —

• Moorpark, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  1,191 reviews

Junior: Moorpark is a great college with a lot of options for classes and great programs. I am currently enrolled in their radiologic technology program and it is so amazing. The professors are great and the program really makes you prepared to work in a hospital setting. I also did my pre requisites for the program at Moorpark and have received a Associates from Moorpark College. The only change I would like to see if counselors who are more helpful and caring. I had many poor experiences with the counselors there and know many students that agree with me. Overall it is a great school and I would highly recommend it to anyone, especially for radiology!... Read 1,191 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,856

• SAT range —

• Oroville, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  709 reviews

Freshman: I really love how Butte college cares not only about its students, but also the environment. I have met so many teachers and faculty there that are really excited to help their students succeed in life and what they are passionate about! There are also many environment conscious choices around campus, such as carpool spaces, a bus system, and solar panels! Butte also did a lot to help students through the pandemic with additional grants and other forms of help. The campus itself is clean, and with areas such as the Queer resource center, road runner hub and food pantry, and the campus safe space, I always feel welcome and at ease.... Read 709 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,736

• SAT range —

• Turlock, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,213 reviews

Senior: I love the school. The staff, teachers, and everything about their Turlock campus was amazing! The campus was beautiful and everyone I had encountered with was very nice and helpful. If I hadn't had to move away further from the campus due to person reasons, I would still attend classes in person because of the energy and atmosphere it provided.... Read 1,213 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $7,230

• SAT range 810-1030