2024 Best Colleges that Accept the Common App in California

• Stanford, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  1,267 reviews

Alum: The first year at Stanford was incredibly enjoyable, especially for those with intellectual curiosity, given the abundance of opportunities across various interests. While the engineering school is popular, Stanford isn't solely focused on engineering, as confirmed by others not in that field. I particularly appreciate the diverse range of activities available, from engaging extracurriculars and sports to vibrant parties and valuable work opportunities. Personally, I regularly enjoyed activities like surfing at the excellent spots in Santa Cruz, about an hour off-campus, and hiking in the picturesque hills nearby. Questions about controversial topics like the "prohibited words list" did come up, but, in reality, it had and continues to have no impact on campus life. Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend Stanford to anyone and everyone.... Read 1,267 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 4%

• Net price $14,402

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  148 reviews

Alum: My relationship with Harvey Mudd is quite messy and convoluted. No single experience will suffice to describe in its entirety; however, hopefully there is something helpful to you in my description! Let's begin. One thing I will say, Harvey Mudd is very difficult. I assume you already know this if you are looking into it, but I want to stress that you will most definitely be challenged. There are many classes to get through, and they are very rigorous. There were a lot sleepless nights, several of which spent in the engineering basement. The constant flow of problem sets, quizzes, midterms and projects will keep you busy to say the least! That being said, there is a wonderful support system at Mudd. Being in graduate school now, I really miss the accessibility to professors and student tutors. Mudd does a really amazing job of fostering collaboration with fellow peers and you guys will grow very close from all the shared struggle. I miss spending every night with them studying!... Read 148 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 10%

• Net price $33,838

• SAT range 1480-1560

• Pasadena, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  133 reviews

Alum: I was in the Class of 1996. I had such a difficult time due to personal issues. I wish someone had been able to explain to me that it is okay to take a break. That would have been better than failing out and then taking a break. Also, peer support at the counseling center would have made a difference.... Read 133 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 4%

• Net price $30,162

• SAT range 1530-1580

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.23 out of 5  420 reviews

Alum: Pomona College was a very transformative space for me. The small class sizes and strong sense of community among professors and students really helped me thrive. I was surrounded by intellectually curious peers and inspiring professors during my four years. Beyond academics, there were an abundance of research and work opportunities to help explore my passions and potential career interests that I would not have been able to do in a larger school. I was able to pursue athletics at the collegiate level, work as a teaching research assistant, and organize community events— the opportunities were endless if you really searched for them. I also cannot forget how beautiful the campus was and how amazing the dining hall food was! Beyond the Pomona College community, you also have access to a consortium of four more top undergraduate colleges (Claremont McKenna, Scripps, Harvey Mudd, and Pitzer) where you can take classes at and connect with a whole new network of students and professors.... Read 420 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 7%

• Net price $17,000

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  429 reviews

Freshman: People at CMC are welcoming, driven, intelligent, and fun to be around. There are a variety of social communities present on campus from kids that went to prep school, international school, charter schools, and public schools. Professors make themselves so accessible, and for many of my freshmen courses I am required to meet with them 1 on 1 before writing an essay. Everyone agrees that the professors truly care about their students. The social life can be really fun—Monte Carlo, Oktoberfest, and 601 are all a blast (especially because cmc is a wet campus and half the student body is part of a varsity sport). The campus is gorgeous being in the mountains with brand new facilities with much more on the way that is expected to be finished between 2024 and 2027. Not to mention it’s connected to a great college town with access to golf courses, beaches, and parks. Ultimately, you get all the benefits of a small and mid sized school in one… as long as you can manage a ton of work.... Read 429 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $21,663

• SAT range 1420-1530

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  4,006 reviews

Sophomore: So far I have not started my sophomore year as I am transferring from Pepperdine University. However, from what I have heard, seen, and experienced from USC is that it gives students the opportunity to explore their creative and intellectual sides simultaneously. I recently attended a transfer orientation session and it was filled with school spirit and gave us transfer students an opportunity to connect with the school as well as with other transfers. This orientation was packed with exciting events that truly made each person who attended eager to get on campus in August. USC offers many different programs along with a variety of specific classes and clubs. I am excited to see how this year goes and I am looking forward to joining the many opportunities that USC offers their students!... Read 4,006 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $26,021

• SAT range 1410-1540

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  501 reviews

Junior: I think one thing that sets Oxy apart from other schools is the relationship you will build with your professors and peers in a class setting. My professors are always really accessible and encourage everyone to go to office hours and ask questions. Because of the small class size and collaborative setting where I am able to talk to my classmates, I've met some of my closest friends in my classes at Oxy. Everyone here is super involved and passionate about something they do on campus. This creates a really fun and supportive culture where we all go to everyone's club events, music performances, and sports games. Oxy really takes advantage of its location in Los Angeles. I've had field trips to Downtown LA and City Hall, and there are lots of opportunities to get off campus like free tickets to the Kings game last week! I chose Oxy because I wanted to be a part of a community that cares about what they are doing and that is exactly what I've found here.... Read 501 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 38%

• Net price $43,047

• SAT range 1340-1490

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  1,943 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at USD has been positive so far! The campus is so pretty, so it's definitely a nice environment to learn within. I love how unique and consistent the architecture is, even with new buildings, and the view of Mission Bay is fun to see every day. My first-year housing experience (in Camino) was good. The bathrooms were recently renovated, so that was appreciated, and there were a lot of private bathroom spaces. All of my professors were so nice as well!... Read 1,943 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $34,155

• SAT range 1190-1370

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  646 reviews

Junior: I think that overall, Pitzer offers an incredible education and a supportive community of students who genuinely care for each other. There's such a diverse range of courses, not to mention the incredible access you get to courses throughout the Claremont Consortium. However, sometimes it feels as though the administration is out of touch with the needs of the student body. There's been times where students, particularly minority students, have felt their needs disregarded by administration despite pressure from the student body. It's another thing I admire about Pitzer - students aren't afraid to speak their mind, and organize for causes they believe in.... Read 646 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 18%

• Net price $19,153

• SAT range 1300-1450

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,739 reviews

Senior: This university has contributed to the academic, social, and communal achievements. I have acquired during the course of my stay as a student here. Loyola Marymount University is the positive, namely, cause of not only my own achievements, but my family and siblings to come as well. As a first time generation student who was not exposed to diverse environments, independent environments; LMU has created a comfortable, easily accessible environment for us! I am thrilled that my siblings will be attending LMU next year, and joining the summer program this summer, 2023! Thank you LMU for being extremely welcoming, having positively supporting staff and support groups!... Read 1,739 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $40,180

• SAT range 1250-1420

• Malibu, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,350 reviews

Alum: Pepperdine University is incredible. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there - I loved my professors, loved the location, and loved the stunning campus. Everyone there was remarkably friendly, and when I switched my major to Art History, I felt very welcomed by the department and encouraged in the pursuit of my goals. My professors were eager to offer help and advice, and it was clear that they enjoyed their careers and loved teaching and mentoring students. The other classes that I took outside of my major (as part of Pepperdine's liberal arts curriculum) were also excellent. I found my religion classes (three required) especially fascinating; given that I was not a Christian student, all the material was new for me and quite enlightening. The classes I took for my minor - Creative Writing - were also fantastic, particularly my Spiritual Writing class (taught by an outstanding professor). I had an amazing time at Pepperdine, and in all honesty, wish I could go back!... Read 1,350 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $40,945

• SAT range 1260-1440

• Santa Clara, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  1,459 reviews

Alum: I had an amazing time at SCU and am proud to be a BRONCO! There are tons of job opportunities in the Bay Area because there are thousands of successful companies in the area, classes are small, education is impressive, the campus is beautiful, and people are so friendly. Santa Clara is not only a great university; the statistical information speaks for itself, but it is more than the numbers. Everyone is happy and proud to study here. The numbers are just getting better each year.... Read 1,459 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $48,469

• SAT range 1330-1490

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  1,032 reviews

Graduate Student: Point Loma Nazarene University excels in both academics and personal connection. Not only with students be able to find like-minded people, they will also have continuous support from professors and faculty throughout their college journey. The small class sizes allow for students to become close with their professors and classmates, which helps in building their network. My professors have helped me drastically in finding jobs, connecting me with others in the field, and by giving me personal advice and guidance in life. From my time at Point Loma Nazarene University, I feel as though I have grown personally, academically, and spiritually. I contribute a great amount of being who I am today because of my experiences at Point Loma Nazarene University. I enjoyed my time so much that I chose to return for my master's degree as well!... Read 1,032 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $34,851

• SAT range 1170-1350

• Orange, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  2,268 reviews

Alum: Overall, I had a very positive experience going to Chapman. The campus was beautiful; there was always a new part of campus to discover with its unique layout. The professors provided such a positive teaching atmosphere that inspired students to ask questions. I always felt like the teachers went above and beyond to be available to help their students. The smaller class sizes helped foster a community that took pride in helping and reaching out to one another. The food on campus? DELICOUS! The cafeteria set up allows for students to eat and study or conduct group meetings thanks to the spacious tables with ample seating. Athletics at Chapman turns students into family. Teams would support each other and have lots of laughs on trips to games. Coaches would be mindful of student schedules and would establish a healthy balance between school and sport. Chapman was absolutely a delight to attend. If anyone is looking for a family away from family, this is it.... Read 2,268 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $40,451

• SAT range 1210-1410

• San Francisco, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  2,321 reviews

Freshman: I am actually an incoming Freshman, so my review is of the family/student meet and greet weekend. The University of San Francisco pulled out all the stops. The students, staff, tours, mock classes, clubs - everything was amazing and informative. The speeches given were inspiring. The food and opportunities to meet other students were fantastic. There were tours of all the buildings by students who actually live in the dorms. The walkways were filled with clubs to join and prizes to win. And everyone I encountered was extremely knowledgable and supper friendly. They even had therapy dogs, which apparently they bring out during finals week - so cool. After sitting in on a few mock classes and speaking to the professors, I knew that University of San Francisco was where I wanted to spend my next four years studying. Any doubts I had about leaving my home state of Washington to become a USF student vanished - I commited to USF that day!... Read 2,321 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $39,825

• SAT range 1190-1390

• Stockton, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,321 reviews

Sophomore: University of the Pacific in Stockton is a gem! I love the unwavering support I receive, making it feel like a second home. Being located in Stockton adds an extra layer of comfort, and the university's integration with the community is awesome. You can receive discounts from local restaurants! The friendly atmosphere creates a welcoming environment where I've made great connections. Pacific isn't just a campus; it feels like an amazing community to be part of. From the support to the tight-knit relationships formed, this university goes beyond academics, making it a comforting experience. Grateful to call Pacific and Stockton my academic and home haven!... Read 1,321 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $21,311

• SAT range 1120-1380

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  469 reviews

Junior: I'm mostly writing this because my experience of Scripps feels incongruent with my experience here, and I want perspective students to know that Scripps can be a really lovely place. A lot of reviews talk about Scripps as a really cliquey school, which could be true to some people's experience, but I've found that everyone here is so friendly and welcoming if you make an effort to get to know them--I feel like it's easy to find community here, especially if you join clubs/have a job/talk to people in your classes. Also, a lot of the reviews said you need to find friends right away--but not true. I didn't find my main friend group until my second semester, and friends and such naturally change over time. I've also found such community in my major--I'm in a smaller, humanities department here, and all the profs are lovely--but I know some of my stem friends have had similar experiences. Scripps is by no means devoid of problems, but I definitely think things are improving post-pandemic.... Read 469 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 30%

• Net price $44,770

• SAT range 1380-1520

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  1,181 reviews

Senior: MSMU has been my home away from home. As a first-generation college student, transitioning from high school to a university was challenging. Yet, through an ISAE program I joined as a freshman, I have stayed on track with my academics while being involved with school events. ISAE is a program dedicated to helping first-generation college students fulfill their academic goals! This program has been vital to my success as it offers regular checkups regarding student progress and opportunities to connect with faculty and other students. Additionally, what makes the Mount special is that all the professors I have encountered throughout my college career have always cared exceptionally about my success and are willing to answer any questions. As far as something I would change, that would be increasing the acceptance rate for nursing school; seeing first-hand the nursing shortage, we need to offer more students the opportunity to pursue a nursing profession.... Read 1,181 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $24,508

• SAT range 900-1110

• Santa Clarita, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  500 reviews

Other: My experience at Master's has been overwhelmingly positive, despite never setting foot on campus! I was enrolled in the Masters' Online Dual-Enrollment program where I took selected university classes. This program has been instrumental in preparing me for when I attend the university. I highly recommend taking these online classes as they not only helped me adapt to the rigors of university studies but also helped me earn high school credits for graduation. Also, as a homeschooled student, it was amazing to share a class with other students my age even though the class was online.... Read 500 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $30,748

• SAT range 990-1250

• La Verne, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  1,237 reviews

Freshman: So far, my experience has been great! The campus is beautiful and filled with greenery everywhere. Everyone is really kind and professors, for the most part, really want to students to succeed and try to build a student/faculty bond. Furthermore, there is a lot of diversity which leaves little room for isolation and uncomfortableness. I am really happy that I attend this school and the only suggestion I would make is to have more precalculus professors available or more highly rated math professors here.... Read 1,237 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $22,538

• SAT range 930-1150

• Moraga, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,100 reviews

Freshman: Saint Mary’s has a unique energy unlike any other campus. The students are positive, inclusive, connected and yet very serious about their studies. There is a lot of fun on campus. There is not much drinking since you have to be over 21 and really there is more for us to do. Greek life is non existent. But that just means we create our fun by way of pool parties, BBQs, games, day trips, etc. There is a “party” scene here but a very safe and clean one - which is fantastic. I cannot thank Saint Mary’s enough, I love it! They check all the boxes of a fantastic school and a home away from home.... Read 1,100 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $25,022

• SAT range 1070-1240

• Thousand Oaks, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  1,171 reviews

Sophomore: California Lutheran University is a private institution that has much to offer students of all types! I love that the community is small, just as the class sizes are. Its the perfect opportunity to make friends and make good close connections with amazing professors. Office hours are always easy to come by and there is always help at CLU for those who ask for it. And although this institution is affiliated with the Lutheran faith, CLU is accepting of all religions and backgrounds. I myself am Catholic, and nevertheless CLU has always felt like home. In addition, although tuition is very expensive, I have funded my entire education through the many scholarships they have. In this way, I view this institution as promising, and exciting no matter if your parents can fund your education or not, anything is possible. Right now for instance, I am only 8,000 in debt and I promised my parents I would fund my own education. All I can say is, come to CLU and meet the amazing community!... Read 1,171 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $24,065

• SAT range 1090-1290

• Fresno, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  568 reviews

Freshman: After 3 weeks as a freshman, it’s been a great experience so far, especially meeting new people. Before starting school, we went on a weekend retreat to Hume Lake where I met students and enjoyed 2 days of activities. It was fun and we all bonded well, making friends and getting to know each other. My new chapter started the following Monday, and at each new classroom I found my new friends I had met at the lake. What a breakthrough moment, no awkwardness because we immediately sat next to each other to enjoy our 1st day. The professors all have PHDs and an open door policy for face to face interaction after class. The lines are short or non existent so you get in and out quickly. I’ve already built strong friendships with other students and we already study together when necessary. And, we’ve had our first dinner outing too just for fun, shopping included! I am happy and feeling good about my college choice so far. I wouldn’t change a thing so whats not to like.... Read 568 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $15,350

• SAT range 970-1240

• San Rafael, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  844 reviews

Sophomore: Dominican is the most supportive college I have ever had the pleasure of attending. There are endless clubs for all sorts of interests and social justice rights. The students, faculty, and staff are something out of a dream. The student to teacher ratio is incredibly helpful when it comes to having a 1 on 1 connection and getting extra assistance in classes. The campus is nothing short of gorgeous, and the on campus living is phenomenal. The dorms and Edgehill Villeage are both conveniently located on the small campus, surrounded by beautiful trees. It almost feels like I get to live at summer camp every day. The classes have wonderfully passionate teachers, and not only that, but the counselors here are amazing as well. The school spirit is not as big as you would see it at other Universities, but it's intimate and more special in that way. There are endless opportunities here! It is a great place to be.... Read 844 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $45,001

• SAT range 1070-1260

• Santa Barbara, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  566 reviews

Alum: The highlight of my time as a student at Westmont College were my Professors! Every single Professor of mine challenged me on a number of levels; academically, mentally, spiritually, etc. The level of education I received at Westmont was truly priceless. Each Professor of mine demonstrated incredibly high levels of expertise in their respective fields, but even more compelling was the passion they showed for both their subject and their students. They each did their best to cultivate in their students not only head knowledge, but heart investment, so as to help their students discern which educational path would most benefit them in the career paths of their dreams. I am also grateful to have had the privilege to attend a Christian school like Westmont as well, where I feel that my faith has been shaped and forged with as equal attention as my education.The Westmont Experience was far from flawless, but it was incredibly formative and I will forever be grateful for it!... Read 566 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $33,554

• SAT range 1110-1460