2024 Top Party Schools in California

• Santa Barbara, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  4,685 reviews

Junior: My experience at the University of California - Santa Barbara (UCSB) was truly incredible! From the moment I stepped foot on the beautiful coastal campus, I knew I was in for an amazing adventure. The combination of fun and learning at UCSB was beyond comparison. Academically, UCSB exceeded my expectations. The university is renowned for its rigorous programs across various disciplines, and the faculty members are top-notch. The courses were intellectually stimulating, challenging me to expand my knowledge and think critically.... Read 4,685 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $17,333

• SAT range 1230-1460

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  3,993 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 3,993 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $26,021

• SAT range 1410-1540

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  5,318 reviews

Freshman: Beyond the excellent academics, SDSU has a great social and school spirit atmosphere with amazing athletics and clubs. As an out-of-state freshman, the transition to college has been tough; however, the many welcoming communities between fun or academic clubs, intramural, club, and D1 sports, and various other excellent programs. There are countless wonderful opportunities, including those at the Mission Bay Aquatic Center (MBAC). Students (and others) can take classes for surfing, wakeboarding, paddle boarding, and more! So far, the surfing class has been a major highlight for me. Getting around is also extremely easy, which is a big deal as a freshman without a car. The trolley and bus system is free to students under 20, which is a major bonus for getting around San Diego, going to the MBAC, and getting other important places in SoCal (like the airport)! I also feel that SDSU is a very safe campus, and has overall been a wonderful experience filled with growth and learning. Go Tecs!... Read 5,318 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 38%

• Net price $6,867

• SAT range 1090-1300

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  5,513 reviews

Junior: I came into UCLA as a transfer student and immediately joined the transfer summer program. The support I received from the program was incredible. I was able to form a community, make new friends, and explore the seemingly endless opportunities UCLA has to offer. Within the first month, I had an opportunity to join a physics lab. This is something that I wanted to do since I began my college journey. To be able to have this opportunity at UCLA is something that I have only dreamt of until now. Additionally, the people that you meet here at UCLA are all incredible and smart in their own ways. I have met tons of ambitious students with their own unique goals and career aspirations. It seems like this is a place filled with endless opportunity!... Read 5,513 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $13,393

• SAT range —

• Chico, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  2,545 reviews

Freshman: Chico State is an experience like no other. Enrolling here, I've made meaningful relationships, and met many people I am proud to say are my friends. The dorm life is lively, it always seems like people are always busy with something. Chico State also offers great on campus recourses, whatever you can think of, there's probably a building or office dedicated to it. The campus does a great job at not only advocating for successful students, and high marking grades. But also makes sure to put mental health and individual well-being right alongside that in terms of importance. I do not regret enrolling in Chico State, and I'm confident that my following years at this school will uphold the same praises that I have expressed so far!... Read 2,545 reviews

• grade B

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $13,749

• SAT range 970-1170

• Berkeley, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  4,412 reviews

Freshman: In my experience at University of California Berkeley, the blissful nature encompassing the university had me feeling included in the school. The nature is like my second home and Berkeley is covered with them. During my visit to Berkeley, my family and I went to many places such as the cities and stores that surrounded the buildings. My sibling’s dormitory had a great access to the town’s parking and coffee shops. While in Berkeley, my sibling reminded me that everybody is not here to “compete with you,” but you build a community to help everyone through troubled times. I can relate to this since my high school is competitive in sports and education. Moreover, through my sibling’s experience, I should compete against myself because I know myself, my interests, and have the ability to overcome obstacles. As the saying goes by Mandela, “It always seems impossible, until it’s done.” I would love to expand the university’s art programs because UC Berkeley has chances to improve!... Read 4,412 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 14%

• Net price $17,652

• SAT range 1310-1530

• San Luis Obispo, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  3,950 reviews

Sophomore: Cal Poly SLO has an excellent academic program. This college strives for "Learn By Doing" and is seen within every major. Students are expected to learn hands-on in their field of choice. For example, for animal science majors there are fields of land where horses, cows, pigs, and more live. This is for the purpose of undergrads to gain experience. Cal Poly has well has a preschool located in front of the library to support students who have an interest in education. Child development majors participate in this preschool by being an observer and staff to the children. The preschool not only is able to make the "Learn By Doing" slogan true but as well brings in citizens to the school. Thus creating a closer community. The location of Cal Poly is beautiful as well. The school is surrounded by mountains with the ocean only being 10 minutes away! Downtown can be reached within walking distance from Cal Poly. Overall, great school.... Read 3,950 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 33%

• Net price $20,708

• SAT range 1240-1440

• Santa Clara, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  1,456 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 1,456 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $48,469

• SAT range 1330-1490

• San Francisco, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.57 out of 5  69 reviews

Sophomore: Minerva is an incredibly innovating and refreshing approach to innovation as they focus on active learning through their intensive siminar classes and style of assessment. We are graded based on assignments rather than exams, which allows us to focus on practically applying the concepts we learn in school. Additionally, in Minerva, we move location every semester to different cities around the world. This allows for us to develop an internationally minded perspective which is very unique compared to other college students. I learned more during my years at Minerva compared to any other program I have been in.... Read 69 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 1%

• Net price $17,432

• SAT range —

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  147 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 147 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 10%

• Net price $33,838

• SAT range 1480-1560

• Hollywood, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  413 reviews

Freshman: Although I’m a just in my first year working on my Bachelors’ of Science, I’m absolutely having a ball. When I say making the decision to go back to school after 15 years & 5 children. I can truly say: AWESOME decision. I’ve got a way to go, but their support team is hands down the best and I have no worries that I’ll have no problems getting through. Where do I start? In January, my family and I took a trip out to see what I was getting myself into. And oh my sweet hickory barbecue; I was impressed. Everything is so subtly organized and beautiful. Everyone we came in contact with were pleasant and friendly. Academically, yeah tuition fees are not for the meek let’s just say. But the way the academic advisors stay on your heel and foot every step of the way. Let me tell you, without them, I would be nothing! But seriously, these guys are amazing! So yeah… no need to sell me because moment I set foot on campus, I was buying all in. And one day, I hope you find a love of your own too!... Read 413 reviews

• grade C minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $33,990

• SAT range —

• San Jose, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  4,297 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at San Jose State University has been great. The majority of staff goes beyond expectations to help their students succeed in everything and anything they may need, although responses from the College of Science can take some time. The professors put their student's best interests at heart, and I have learned valuable lessons that will benefit my life well after I graduate from University. The professors always vocalize the help that they provide their students if assistance is needed to better comprehend subjects. The students are also a joy, and most of the students I encountered are super friendly. This factor makes my time at university enjoyable, and overall SJSU is a great school and I recommend it to anyone who is thinking of becoming a future spartan!... Read 4,297 reviews

• grade B

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $14,603

• SAT range 1010-1240

• San Francisco, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  2,483 reviews

Freshman: Overall I want to say that I am very impressed with this school! I feel like I fit in with the other students where creating art is concerned! However, I am a little disappointed in the way this school treats transgender students. My best friend is transgender and she has deal with being dead named constantly by her professors. She has tried to correct them a countless amount of time for this, but to no avail. She said that only her French teacher used her correct pronouns and name, which is saying a lot since she has been in this school for over a year and the majority of her teachers misgender her. Personally, I would like there to be a little more understanding and respect towards LGBTQA+ students. As a university that claims to be diverse in their commercials on YouTube, there still seems to be some stigma towards trans students.... Read 2,483 reviews

• grade C+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $32,593

• SAT range —

• Stanford, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  1,265 reviews

Niche User: As a former student of Stanford University, I can say with confidence that it was an incredible experience. The campus is absolutely beautiful, with stunning architecture and sprawling gardens that make for a peaceful and serene environment to study in. The professors were all experts in their fields and incredibly knowledgeable. They pushed us to think critically and creatively, challenging us to go beyond the textbook and truly understand the material. The classes were engaging and interactive, with lots of opportunities for discussion and collaboration. One thing that stood out to me about Stanford was the emphasis on interdisciplinary studies. The university encourages students to explore different fields and take classes outside of their major, which I found to be incredibly valuable. It allowed me to broaden my knowledge and perspectives, and I still use the skills I learned in those classes today. This university is amazing and extremely beneficial to your future career... Read 1,265 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 4%

• Net price $14,402

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Long Beach, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  4,804 reviews

Alum: This school is full of wonderful people. There a lot of students from all over the world with a brilliant personalities. If you don’t fit in, they will help you to fit in and succeed. A lot of students from economically successful social groups in the third college generation. I witnessed freshmen who drive Maserati and Tesla. Some professors are incredible, polite and have a tendency to like all of their students and treat them like if they were their kids. The parking lots are great. You be late for 30 minutes before classes and always find a free spot. I’m so glad I graduated from that place. Beaches are nearby and it’s a beach life. If I will ever have kids, I will send them to CSULB instead of sending them to an expensive private college where they can experience bad influence from spoiled classmates or toxic environment of faculty and administration. Don’t hesitate and Go Beach!... Read 4,804 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $9,171

• SAT range 1020-1240

• Hollywood, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.02 out of 5  85 reviews

Freshman: While Musicians Institute can be financially demanding and has posed a significant challenge for me to afford independently, I wholeheartedly endorse it for those who possess the financial means. This institution offers outstanding facilities, a dedicated staff, and creates a truly inspiring learning environment.... Read 85 reviews

• grade C+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $36,686

• SAT range —

• Riverside, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  3,648 reviews

Freshman: My experience at UCR has been great so far. First, I love the diversity we have here on campus! I was able to meet people from everywhere, and everyone is very friendly, so it was really easy to make a few friends along the way. Most of my professors have been great, and I could tell that they were really passionate about what they were teaching. Although I am not the biggest fan when it comes to long lectures, I feel like I am actually learning something, rather than when I was in high school. I also love the abundance of events that occur daily. The organizations/clubs are really awesome too, with most of them sounding very interesting to join. I am currently in two clubs and they are really fun. My only critique would probably have to be some professors not actually teaching, making it a less fun experience. But overall, I am happy I chose to be a student here, and I can't wait to see what the future holds!... Read 3,648 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $13,502

• SAT range 1080-1280

• Fresno, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  2,838 reviews

Freshman: Despite numerous challenges I had with transcripts, classes, and technology errors, Fresno State's Kremen academic advising team was extremely helpful and worked dilligently to help me enroll this last semester. Now that the fall semester has begun, I enjoy all of my classes thoroughly. I have never been more confident that elementary education is what I want to do! Pouring into their students, the professors actually care about the material they are teaching. When a professor is as passionate about the subject as the students, it becomes contagious! Fresno State has successfully cultivated a community of students and professors where I know I am supported on my academic journey. A greater education does not come without its challenges, but at Fresno State, I know that I will be able to prevail with my degree and a hope for the future.... Read 2,838 reviews

• grade B

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $6,336

• SAT range 890-1100

• Orange, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  2,261 reviews

Graduate Student: Chapman was the first time I ever had a truly positive educational experience. One of the things I enjoyed about the school was how the student body is incredibly friendly, open to new experience, and almost always will lend a helping hand. For the most part, classes are smaller and professors are engaging. Almost all professors I had were really passionate about the subjects they taught and were more than willing to assist any students with questions. If you are a student with a disability, this school office of disability services is one of the best I have ever dealt with. The school's disability services goes above and beyond to make sure students feel accommodated. Aslo, Chapman is the first school that I ever had positive interactions with admin. They always wanted to see me succeed and almost always had to time to interact if you just dropped in. Overall, everyone is very kind and really just wants to see you succeed! I liked the school so much I stayed on for Grad School!... Read 2,261 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $40,451

• SAT range 1210-1410

• Sacramento, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  3,860 reviews

Alum: The campus at CSUS is gorgeous. So many beautiful trees and lush nature to get lost in and relax from the stress of studying. The theatre program is by far one of most prestigious programs in California. The professors teach with such detail that it's hard NOT to pay attention. I left with a Bachelor's Degree in Theatre Arts and I could not be happier with the level of education, student involvement and community I experienced while attending. The only negative remark I have is the parking situation... PLEASE build more efficient and spacious parking structures!... Read 3,860 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $7,778

• SAT range 930-1130

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  428 reviews

Sophomore: Incredible students. They are all approachable, motivated, and conscientious. The resources presented to the students are off the charts. CMC pays you to take internships. If you need business attire, the school will cover it. If you want to travel to look at Grad Schools, the school will cover the cost. They take you on "Networking Treks" every few months, where you meet with Alumni and talk about your career paths. The food is great (you can eat from all 5 dining halls). If you take advantage of the schools resources and opportunities, you will be extremely successful. Because CMC students are confident, learning is collaborative, not competitive. Student engagement is not only encouraged, but expected. If you yearn to be in an environment of students who prioritize proactivity, CMC is the school that will put you on the path to success.... Read 428 reviews

• grade A+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $21,663

• SAT range 1420-1530

• Northridge, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  4,988 reviews

Freshman: Walking into Cal state Northridge brought me out with so many levels of confidence. Everybody here is so nice, and they really care about you. I can tell. Also, when I walk into the classrooms the teachers are kind. If a student in the class does not get something they will say "Please let me know if you have any questions, there are no right and wrong question to ask" which I loved and made me comfortable. I am doing well in classes because most of my teachers are taking the time to go step by step to make sure we are understanding the lecture because they know were transioning from high school to college. So, they are sharing different ways and their experience on what helped them, which helped me tremendously! I love it here in Cal State Northridge. It just makes me so happy! Especially with all the events they put out here to make every gender, race, religion feel welcome! That what I truly love because where I used to live none of this stuff, I am talking about was existent.... Read 4,988 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $8,708

• SAT range 900-1110

• Valencia, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  284 reviews

Senior: I transferred from Los Angeles Mission Community College to California Institute of the Arts in 2020. Since, I have been studying Music Technology and Digital Arts and am set to graduate this upcoming Fall! With my time at Calarts coming to a close, I am incredibly sad to leave my Calarts family behind. I love the Music Technology faculty, the amazing courses I have taken such as; Interface Design, Creative Producing for music, Advanced Electronic Ensemble, and Visual Programming (the list goes on)! These classes are some of the few that left me inspired and motivated to continue learning and pursuing my artistry after college. Nonetheless, these are classes that were very specific to my learning goals, that I would not have commonly found at any other university. My mentor, Madeline Falcone, has done an OUTSTANDING job of supporting me in my academic goals, while also pushing my artistry to the next level. I would love if the tuition was lower, because I am currently 120k in debt.... Read 284 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $53,916

• SAT range —

• Fullerton, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  5,228 reviews

Senior: My first year was all online due to COVID. I had extremely supportive and accommodating professors. The workload was very doable, just make sure to communicate with your professors whenever you miss something or do not understand. In my second year, I lived in the on-campus apartments. It is fairly regulated on campus, and people can be shy but is a very safe and healthy environment. Everyone loved their RA's because they were so sweet. My third year was living in campus-affiliated apartments, which was amazing. You have more freedom, but can still walk to school. The campus is very large which means there are endless opportunities for students. We have some of the best departments regarded in the state with some of the most reputable professors. Join clubs as well! Being part of clubs with your interests and meeting new people that way completely changes your college experience. It is the easiest way to connect with people! There are several food places on campus and the gym is big!... Read 5,228 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $4,939

• SAT range 1000-1180

• Davis, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  5,052 reviews

Senior: Davis has been an extraordinary experience as a pre-med student! The faculty's expertise and genuine care for students have been remarkable. They provide engaging lectures, one-on-one guidance, and research opportunities. The pre-med advising team is accessible and immensely helpful, supporting me in every aspect of my journey. The campus is beautiful, offering study spaces and research facilities with cutting-edge resources. The inclusive environment fosters collaboration with like-minded peers, making it feel like a family. Davis also provides numerous healthcare and medicine-related clubs and organizations, enhancing networking opportunities. The university's ties to local hospitals and medical centers have opened doors for internships and clinical experiences, giving me invaluable exposure to the medical field. My time at Davis has been transformative and inspiring, preparing me for medical school and beyond. I highly recommend Davis to any aspiring pre-med student.... Read 5,052 reviews

• grade A

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 49%

• Net price $16,640

• SAT range 1160-1400