2022 Top Private Universities in California

• Stanford, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.09 out of 5  1,229 reviews

Alum: Now, 60+ years after a Stanford BSME, I am astoundingly grateful for a rounded undergraduate engineering education that led to 1) a succession of rewarding employments, and through those, 2) development of cultural appreciation and of language capability in Malaysian/Indonesian - employment experiences in human relations and communication that made me a more effective and versatile engineer. So to Stanford, thanks for getting me off to a great start! T. Savage, Seattle... Read 1,229 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 5%

• Net price $20,023

• SAT range 1420-1570

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  3,853 reviews

Sophomore: For context- current sophomore who started at USC online, majoring in Communications but has taken classes from across disciplines -Academics: overall good but definitely some terrible professors who either have favoritism, are unclear with expectations, or bad w grading. But the majority of professors are really good -Environment: if you're intimidated by rich, judgmental people, this is not the place for you. A lot of the culture is exclusionary towards ppl who work or who don't partake in certain activities (ex: Greek life) But when you get through the superficial aspect you can meet some really awesome, interesting friends! -facilities: very very nice- great gyms, dining halls, dorms Overall: a great school with a lot of resources, so be sure to look into your major specific resources bc they offer so much! Just be warned that it's not the easiest place to go to if you don't fit a certain mold.... Read 3,853 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $39,759

• SAT range 1340-1530

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  412 reviews

Alum: Aside from all of the aspects Pomona promotes as the reasons in favor of attending, I have to say that the relationships I forged with faculty, staff, and my fellow majors (Public Policy Analysis) contributed in large part to my success in undergrad and beyond. The Career Development Office in particular helped me perfect my job-hunting skills, and tailor my resume to ensure I was always putting my best, most relevant self out there. The alumni network is robust, and folks are always willing to lend a helping hand when it comes to connecting current students and other alums to jobs or people who can lift them up. Thanks to the CDO, I was able to land a great internship that legitimized my thesis research to a point where I was able to create valid policy solutions to address the problems I was trying to solve, which is why I chose Pomona in the first place. So glad to have had the opportunities and experiences that I did! My life shifted for the better because of Pomona.... Read 412 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 9%

• Net price $30,392

• SAT range 1390-1540

• Pasadena, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  126 reviews

Junior: Great academic and research environment. Amazing people all around, from students to faculty. Only problem is the administration.... Read 126 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 7%

• Net price $26,591

• SAT range 1530-1580

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  421 reviews

Sophomore: Claremont Mckenna College is an amazing academic institution. Every student here is so passionate and loves to learn. Claremont has an incredible, close knit-community that is incredibly supportive. My professors all are so kind and involved. I love CMC! Sko nas!... Read 421 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $22,004

• SAT range 1330-1500

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  139 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 139 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 14%

• Net price $37,192

• SAT range 1490-1570

• Santa Clara, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,425 reviews

Sophomore: I am a rising sophomore at Santa Clara University, and my experience thus far has been amazing to say the least. Coming into a four year university as a Latinx first-generation student was nerve-wracking at first; I wasn't sure how well I would adapt to a new environment. However, I was immediately received with open arms in a community that prides itself in acceptance, diversity, inclusion, and bronco spirit! Throughout my first year, I became involved in activities such as Associated Student Government, Mecha-El Frente, Campus Ministry, and the Office of Multicultural Learning. I have been able to find an incredible support system, long-life friends, outstanding professors, a social residential learning experience, and an active student life. In addition, the academics are extremely strong as professors prioritize their students, meaning that they put the well-being and success of those they teach in order to prepare them appropriately for future careers.... Read 1,425 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 51%

• Net price $48,284

• SAT range 1270-1450

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  479 reviews

Sophomore: In my first year at Occidental College I had a very enjoyable experience. I am a varsity swimmer and loved my experience as a D3 athlete. In addition to the community I built around athletics, the communal dorm allowed me to create other friendships as well! As an athlete, food is an extremely important aspect of my life. The dining halls food is great, and much better than many other colleges'. Outside of athletics, I had countless amazing experiences with professors. All of my professors cared about me as a person and student. I went to most of my classes very excited to learn from incredible professors. On days when I was not swimming or in school, I enjoyed the surrounding area. My friends and I can take a very short walk to York, where the restaurants are delicious and the stores are delightful. My overall experience at Oxy has been very positive. One of my only negative experiences has been with the finical aspect of the school, although this significantly varies per person.... Read 479 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 41%

• Net price $41,102

• SAT range 1270-1460

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  456 reviews

Sophomore: This is my first on-campus semester, and so far I love it! The student body has a defined sense of creativity and style which is something I never thought to look for in a college. I love the amount of student-run activities happening each day around campus. Honestly, the party scene is perfect for me. There isn't something every single night, but Thursdays and Saturdays are traditionally going out days, and sometimes Fridays as well. For being told that Scripps doesn't have a great party scene, I was pleasantly surprised. I appreciate the substantial gay community, although it doesn't show in particular affinity groups. My friends that are interested in men seem pretty content, as we naturally interact a lot thru classes and events. Not a lot of peer pressure or academic competition among the students, at least for me. Resources like math help & the counseling center aren't bad (!!), but you definetly have to hunt for them. We joke that there's no administration left on campus.... Read 456 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 35%

• Net price $40,259

• SAT range 1320-1480

• Malibu, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  1,293 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 1,293 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 42%

• Net price $46,550

• SAT range 1200-1410

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  635 reviews

Niche User: I loved this place! I did a domestic exchange program for a semester. Nice dorms, friendly student body, good food in the dining hall, and cool classes. A lot of fun classes on pop culture and media studies. It was a nice break from my sad, east coast liberal arts college. It was a bit easier than I anticipated it to be, more consistent assignments throughout the year rather than huge final projects like I was used to, but classes at Pomona or Scripps will amp up your workload. Still, like any college, it's just about the classes you take. Con: HUGE wealth gap here between students. First gen solidarity is strong here though. Such a pretty campus, and amazing Latinx Student Union which I joined while I was there.... Read 635 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 17%

• Net price $30,095

• SAT range 1300-1450

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  1,688 reviews

Niche User: This school has an absolutely amazing atmosphere and campus life! I honestly would not wish to attend college anywhere else. The environment is so uplifting and having classroom sizes that average to about 20 people is unbelievably great. The location of the school is spectacular and the city life, as well as beaches, are so great!... Read 1,688 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 50%

• Net price $48,758

• SAT range 1210-1390

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  1,889 reviews

Junior: I love USD, the campus is beautiful and there is so many things to do in San Diego all year. Social life is vibrant and if your involved in greek life USD does not allow for houses so thats the only down side but overall clubs and getting involved in any extracurricular is fun and highly encouraged. As far as academics, this is a liberal arts university so you are required to take clases outside your major. To me it is a waste of time to take so many clases that aren't part of my major but I understand that it is enforced so we are well rounded students. Class size isn't to big about 15-30 students. Professors are always willing to help!... Read 1,889 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $37,547

• SAT range 1190-1370

• Orange, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  2,207 reviews

Freshman: So far it's good! The departments you reach out to reply quickly and answer your questions; they really do try to provide the best help they can. Professors are friendly and help you with questions and the path you are on. Students are friendly (though I have yet to make a friend who I feel really connected with because being a first year is hard, I have many acquaintances). Many higher up students that I've talked with are so friendly and answer any/all questions I have on their major, courses, etc and genuinely aren't bothered to answer questions. Many events at Chapman include music/theatre events (students are SO talented) sports events, connection events, and friendly clubs. Though it is hard to navigate your first year in college, I've gotten great support from professors, students who answer any questions I have, on campus job bosses, and more. Chapman does a pretty good job of listening to student concerns (getting new courses, free masks, free parking, new areas of study).... Read 2,207 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 58%

• Net price $44,327

• SAT range 1170-1350

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  990 reviews

Alum: Excellent! All faculty and staff are very knowledgeable. They truly care and want their students to succeed. This school has excellent communication. Plus, it is an extremely beautiful campus! Teachers are excellent at answering questions. They have so much passion.... Read 990 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $34,644

• SAT range 1100-1290

• San Francisco, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  2,245 reviews

Senior: The University of San Francisco is an institution right in the heart of the city. It is in a great location that sits in the residential area right outside of the downtown area. Even though it is a smaller campus, I believe that the student life makes up for it! There are numerous student organizations that allow you to create friendships that could last a lifetime. There is also so much to do in the perfect cool weather! From watching the sunset at Ocean Beach to playing mini golf at Ghirardelli Square, there is always something for you and your friends to do. I am super happy that I chose this institution, not only because of my friends but the wonderful professors I have met. I believe that the professors really care about each and every one of their students and go out of their way to ensure their success. As my senior year is about to begin, I can not be more excited to spend it at this wonderful school.... Read 2,245 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $42,801

• SAT range 1140-1330

• La Mirada, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  2,239 reviews

Freshman: The biblical studies department is the best of its kind for undergrad in the country. It has amazing professors and the education is phenomenal! I grew so much in my faith there, especially intellectually. However, unless you're naive (homeschooled, private school, sheltered, etc..) or right out of high school, you will most likely have trouble fitting in and most likely get misunderstood. It can be dangerous for transfers and older students living on campus. I've had conversations with Campus Safety and even campus safety notices it, it's called "the biola bubble." I would strongly recommend transfers and older students with more life experience to not live on campus. Other then that, fantastic education!... Read 2,239 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $34,713

• SAT range 1070-1290

• Stockton, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  1,265 reviews

Alum: University of the Pacific is a welcoming community and I always feel home when I am on campus! It's the faculty, staff, and students that are always engaging and helpful. Pacific offers a great college experience with small class sizes, individual attention from professors, and strong academic programs.... Read 1,265 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $32,780

• SAT range 1080-1340

• Santa Clarita, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  486 reviews

Freshman: The Master's University is awesome! The student body is so friendly and inclusive, you can make friends with basically everyone. Everyone knows so much about the Bible and they are always encouraging each other in the Lord. The teachers are very good, they care about each one of the students and teach their subject very well. The school even has some unique majors, like Classical Liberal Arts. The dorms are very comfortable and a great place to study or hang out with friends. We often do dorm hangouts, which helps you connect and make friends within your dorm. Altogether, the school is very safe, the culture is awesome, and has great, high level academics.... Read 486 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $29,567

• SAT range 990-1250

• Rocklin, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  416 reviews

Alum: I got my bachelor's in Psychology at WJU in 2020. I really saw the true value of WJU and the excellence of their program after I moved and started my grad program in marriage and family therapy in Texas. WJU has provided such a phenomenal foundation in psychology that I lean on daily while in grad school. Going to WJU was one of the best choices I have made and would choose to go there again if I had to do it all over again. My favorite part of WJU was their high quality of education (not every teacher was perfect since no school has that, but on average the teachers were very good and knowledgeable). The campus is big enough that you can hide if you want alone time but small enough that you will get connected to the community and build friendships with ease. Great food! Their library is incredible, I still use it while I'm studying in grad school. Lastly, their support and resources are well built out and they truly help students succeed.... Read 416 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $26,094

• SAT range 950-1210

• La Verne, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  1,158 reviews

Senior: The Univesity of La Verne is one of the most extraordinary communities I've had the pleasure to be a part of. So welcoming, caring, equal, and just such a positive place. Every professor, counselor, and anyone I've met while attending this school has been the most sincere and genuinely caring persons I've had the pleasure to correspond with. I couldn't say enough good that this school radiates. Everyone has the opportunity at this university, everyone is welcomed, everyone is loved, and everyone is respected. Out of the time I've spent at La Verne, I've created friendships and memories that I will always have and cherish. I'm forever grateful and blessed to be a Panther!... Read 1,158 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $30,061

• SAT range 960-1150

• Santa Barbara, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  533 reviews

Sophomore: I just finished my freshman year at Westmont and I loved it! My professors were amazing and my classes were very interesting. I met so many incredible people and grew a lot academically and spiritually. The campus is beautiful and amazes me every single day. There are many ways to get involved (whether it be something just for fun, or something more serious) and deeper your faith (through small groups, worship nights, chapel, etc). I feel at home here and I couldn’t have asked for a better first year college experience.... Read 533 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $32,418

• SAT range 1110-1370

• Riverside, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  2,736 reviews

Junior: California Baptist University is a school of community! This university does its best to involve every student in the community! There are events every month and many giveaway opportunities. They incorporate local services into their events! For example, CBU hosted a viewing of The Batman (2022) movie and inclusive service at the local Castle Park amusement center. CBU celebrates events at every corner. Students of differing fields of study or demographic may come together at larger events or feel included in smaller, interest-specific events. The size of the campus is perfect for these efforts! The campus is what I would describe as a size medium. It is not too big, where students would reduced to a number. It is not too small, where high-school-like drama spreads easily. California Baptist University is just right! Student life may expect a community-feeling to their time at CBU.... Read 2,736 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $27,883

• SAT range 990-1210

• Azusa, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  2,729 reviews

Graduate Student: Azusa Pacific University (APU) Christ-centered institute that helps students of all ethnic, national, cultural, gender, and religious backgrounds to succeed in their academic goals. In fact, my experience has been extremely life-changing to where I found my vocational calling in ministry and my spouse! Although APU welcomes all people, even those international, I would like to see a change in student demographics. In other words, white-caucasian students represent the majority. I would like to see more students of Latin descent, African-American descent, Pacific Islander descent, Asian descent, and others not mentioned. I believe that Azusa Pacific University's reputation would strengthen and increase by advertising ethnic diversity.... Read 2,729 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $31,367

• SAT range 1030-1260

• Whittier, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  768 reviews

Junior: I love Whittier College-the Professors and Doctors are fabulous and give you one on one treatment-As a smaller school the help and the curriculum are top notch and they make sure that you are taken care of-From top to bottom this is a fabulous school-I never would have been able to obtain my GPA if I had went to a larger school because I am handicapped and I need a lot of one on one-But I came here with a 4.0 and I am currently at 3.8 (the classes are difficult, but I am going to obtain my masters degree so I want to make sure that I am at that level. I will get it back up! Thank you to everyone that has helped me thus far!... Read 768 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $28,647

• SAT range 1040-1220