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2020 Top Private Universities in CaliforniaAbout this List

The Top Private Universities ranking is based on rigorous analysis of academic, admissions, financial, and student life data from the U.S. Department of Education along for millions of reviews from students and alumni. The ranking compares top private colleges and universities in each state. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

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  1. Stanford University

    • 4 Year
    • Stanford, CA
    • 1,152 reviews
    #1 Top Private Universities in California

    Sophomore: Stanford is the greatest place on earth. I feel so at home here and love everything about the campus and life here. The weather is amazing (no snow! or freezing temperatures), people are happier than many other schools, and you have the freedom and flexibility to study anything and switch your major around.
    Read 1,152 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 5% Acceptance Rate
    • $16,562 Net Price
    • 1390-1540 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  2. Pomona College

    • 4 Year
    • Claremont, CA
    • 371 reviews
    #2 Top Private Universities in California

    Sophomore: I'm only a sophomore, but I've gotten involved with research for all four semesters, received internship funding, had expenses for two conferences paid for, was actively involved in an award winning Mock Trial without any experience, and learned how to play the violin through free private music lessons. I've also been able to go to Los Angeles often for endless entertainment, natural beauty, and incredible eats. This place may be tiny, but it is bustling with opportunity. The academic experience is robust, with professors who love to teach and peers who love to learn. The Claremont Colleges add so much depth, and each is distinctive enough to venture out to and seek out new perspective. I had my choice of attending a world-renowned university over here, but I could see the difference in how the undergraduates were valued. The only thing I wish were different was the lack of name brand- Pomona is so unknown by most! Still, if you are willing to work hard, you can go anywhere from here.
    Read 371 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8% Acceptance Rate
    • $18,427 Net Price
    • 1370-1530 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  3. California Institute of Technology

    • 4 Year
    • Pasadena, CA
    • 116 reviews
    #3 Top Private Universities in California

    Niche User: I loved visiting caltech! I loved the campus, it was so beautiful. The houses each had their own personality, and cool traditions! I got to play tennis on the courts there and stay with some other girls in the houses themselves. We staying in flemming house and spent a lot of time in the common room! We also were able to tour the academic facilities and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, which is associated with Caltech and it was truly inspiring to see. We were given the opportunity to see current projects in JPL like the 2020 mars rover! I cannot wait to apply!
    Read 116 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8% Acceptance Rate
    • $24,466 Net Price
    • 1530-1590 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  4. University of Southern California

    • 4 Year
    • Los Angeles, CA
    • 3,589 reviews
    #4 Top Private Universities in California

    Freshman: USC is an amazing school in terms of academics. There's definitely a higher standard and you have to work for your grades but you come out having learned a lot. Because it is a private school with lots of appeal in the heart of Los Angeles, it does attract a fair share of ignorant, privileged people. However, you can definitely find genuine people, just keep looking and being you! USC has so many perks and resources and I highly recommend getting involved whether it be sports or clubs! The professors are very experienced and amazing.
    Read 3,589 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 17% Acceptance Rate
    • $32,892 Net Price
    • 1300-1500 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  5. Claremont McKenna College

    • 4 Year
    • Claremont, CA
    • 414 reviews
    #5 Top Private Universities in California

    Freshman: Where do I begin, I have so much to say about how much I love this school. When I first came to Claremont McKenna, I feared that it would be difficult to make friends as it is such a small school. However, the first day shocked me completely. Everyone was so freaking nice, like unbelievably nice. In the last 3 months of being here, I know about 250/360 kids in my class, and of course a lot of upperclassmen. The party scene here is exactly what I want from a school ,inclusivity, but everyone definitely shares a work hard, play hard mentality. We know how to party, but we also know how to be the scholarly students we got in here for being. The party scene truly is spectacular. The dining hall food is amazing. Sports teams are great as 1/3 of the student body participates in sports There are pretty much a million ways to get involved on campus. I want to continue rambling about how much I love it here, but I also have an econ quiz tomorrow, but I hope that helps. S'GO STAGTHENAS!
    Read 414 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 10% Acceptance Rate
    • $28,712 Net Price
    • 1340-1510 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  6. Harvey Mudd College

    • 4 Year
    • Claremont, CA
    • 131 reviews
    #6 Top Private Universities in California

    Alum: Attending Harvey Mudd College was a humbling experience. I was able to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics with peers who were similarly passionate. There are boundless opportunities to take courses both on campus or at any of the four other undergraduate Claremont Colleges that are all within a 1-mile radius, just a short walk or quick bike-ride away. I had the opportunity to pursue summer research projects and engage in a thesis project during my senior year. The campus encourages students to present their research across the nation at various conferences. It’s not uncommon for the department sponsoring your research project to also sponsor your attendance at research conferences including paying for hotel, airfare, and a food stipend! Last but most definitely not least, the advisors are passionate about your success and meet with students frequently. I personally met with my advisor on a weekly basis. I am grateful for this amazing undergraduate institution!
    Read 131 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 15% Acceptance Rate
    • $38,135 Net Price
    • 1470-1570 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  7. Santa Clara University

    • 4 Year
    • Santa Clara, CA
    • 1,342 reviews
    #7 Top Private Universities in California

    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 1,342 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 54% Acceptance Rate
    • $38,900 Net Price
    • 1270-1440 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  8. Scripps College

    • 4 Year
    • Claremont, CA
    • 436 reviews
    #8 Top Private Universities in California

    Alum: I loved attending Scripps! An excellent environment in which to develop my whole self, intellectually, emotionally, and socially. As an alum, I am grateful every day for my time there.
    Read 436 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 33% Acceptance Rate
    • $36,831 Net Price
    • 1290-1460 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  9. Pitzer College

    • 4 Year
    • Claremont, CA
    • 615 reviews
    #9 Top Private Universities in California

    Junior: The 5 Cs are arguably the best liberal arts consortium in the country and kind of like a hidden gem. I feel very lucky to be able to attend Pitzer, where the professors are engaging leaders in their fields, the student body truly wants to make the world a better place, and the entire community is intelligent, open minded, and kind. The food is incredible and mostly farm to table with many veg and organic options. Everyone is into a million things on campus, clubs are super popular, and kids are politically active and work toward social justice and environmental sustainability. We party and have fun, but academics are the priority. Some of our teams are highly ranked, like Swim & Dive which is 8th in the country. Claremont is an awesome college town. It’s just a special school - so happy to call it home. Thank you, Pitzer!
    Read 615 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 16% Acceptance Rate
    • $26,935 Net Price
    • 1300-1450 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  12. Occidental College

    • 4 Year
    • Los Angeles, CA
    • 436 reviews
    #10 Top Private Universities in California

    Sophomore: OXY is my dream school! The campus is beautiful, the students are smart and hard-working, and the community is super diverse - racially and socio-economically. The kids are so open minded and kind and welcoming and I made friends immediately. My classes are challenging and engaging and my professors are amazing! I love being in LA - the opportunities are endless for culture, food, arts, etc. Great research opportunities and internships available. Athletics are also great and our rankings are improving with each season. Facilities are quite nice and the food is top notch. Thank you, Oxy!
    Read 436 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 42% Acceptance Rate
    • $33,738 Net Price
    • 1280-1440 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  13. Pepperdine University

    • 4 Year
    • Malibu, CA
    • 1,212 reviews
    #11 Top Private Universities in California

    Graduate Student: I love Pepperdine University! All the professors and staff are very involved in your academic learning. Every professor is very knowledgeable in their field and is always willing to help you if you have any questions.
    It has been a wonderful experience. All of the classes get you engaged in the material. I’ve learned so much this past few semesters. Once you attend a few classes you become such a close knit community with your peers. Everyone is helping each other succeed. It is an opportunity for personal and academic growth. The campuses all around Malibu, Encino and West LA are all beautiful. The Malibu campus has an exceptional view! You can study or eat and look out for the breathtaking view of the ocean and sunlight.
    You’re overall you’re academic experience is wonderful. Pepperdine upholds really great Christian values that coincides with my religious beliefs.
    Read 1,212 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 40% Acceptance Rate
    • $36,372 Net Price
    • 1200-1390 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  14. University of San Diego

    • 4 Year
    • San Diego, CA
    • 1,808 reviews
    #12 Top Private Universities in California

    Freshman: Going to the University of San Diego is like going to summer camp year round. By that I mean, half of the time I forget I'm just here for school! The campus is so gorgeous it doesn't feel like a traditional college environment at all, and I love that about it. The class sizes are small, enough so that your professor knows you by name. Being able to develop relationships with my professors has significantly helped my academic success in the classroom. I love everything that this school stands for. They are openly accepting of persons from all races and ethnicities, economic backgrounds, and religions. There are on campus resources for minority groups such as women, women and persons of color, and LGBTQ+. The only thing I think this school lacks is the numbers of students with diversity in race and ethnicity as well as economic backgrounds. This school does much to support diverse communities on campus, but lacks in the actual numbers and representation of these minority communities.
    Read 1,808 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 50% Acceptance Rate
    • $38,592 Net Price
    • 1180-1350 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  15. Loyola Marymount University

    • 4 Year
    • Los Angeles, CA
    • 1,580 reviews
    #13 Top Private Universities in California

    Graduate Student: It is a beautiful school! Walking around campus and throughout the buildings makes you feel like you're at a top notch institution. Their recent rebranding was a total waste of money though..the old lion and letters were just fine, it really feels as though a graphic designer was hired that had experience doing graphics for elementary schools and such.
    A lot of the graduate professors in the School of Education seem a bit novice, but eager to educate nonetheless.
    Read 1,580 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 52% Acceptance Rate
    • $42,459 Net Price
    • 1180-1360 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  16. Chapman University

    • 4 Year
    • Orange, CA
    • 2,082 reviews
    #14 Top Private Universities in California

    Freshman: My short time at Chapman has provided me with a plethora of opportunities and incited a drive within me that I truly believe could not have happened elsewhere. I'll add that any school is what you make of it, and that every person has a different "fit" school.

    For me, that fit was here. As a science major, I have been engaged in small classes with professors truly invested in my learning, as opposed to solely their research like in larger universities. I've been able to conduct research from the beginning. I've had guidance and mentorship that is truly unparalleled. But the best part has been how the size of the school allows students to truly form bonds. As just a freshman, I found myself walking to class stopping to say hi to so many people. I'm not a social butterfly, I'll note, but the environment is just conducive to this! Can't recommend enough if you're looking for an environment to grow and thrive, but without being the number you might be at a larger school.
    Read 2,082 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 57% Acceptance Rate
    • $40,053 Net Price
    • 1190-1360 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  17. University of San Francisco

    • 4 Year
    • San Francisco, CA
    • 2,076 reviews
    #15 Top Private Universities in California

    Sophomore: I LOVE being at the University of San Francisco. Some aspects of USF that I love is how the class sizes are fairly small. I am able to meet with my professors whenever I need, without having to compete for an appointment slot. Since the undergrad population is around 6000 students, the resources on or off-campus can be reached by all students. There are a lot of immersion/retreat opportunities where donors/the university provides a lot of scholarships for most students in need!
    Read 2,076 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 66% Acceptance Rate
    • $35,270 Net Price
    • 1100-1290 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  18. Point Loma Nazarene University

    • 4 Year
    • San Diego, CA
    • 929 reviews
    #16 Top Private Universities in California

    Senior: Good
    +The small class sizes (all my teacher know me by name and are always there to help)

    +The student body resources (campus ministries, study abroad, intramurals, dorm events)

    +Location (you are in arguably the most beautiful campus ever where you are never more than a 5-15 minute walk from the beach, also San Diego)

    +Religion (3 bible classes in the curriculum, chapel offered 4 days a week, prayer chapel, church right next to campus, professors that pray for classes)

    Bad
    -Gym/Sports Teams (Our homecoming soccer and basketball games are fun but apart from that it is a ghost town even though the team are typically decent, also the rec center is SMALL, like in A CLOSET which makes it hard to stay healthy without having an outside gym membership)

    -Cafeteria (it can be pretty gross at dinner time and weekends when professors and paid staff aren’t there to complain about the quality)

    -Dorms (The dorms are literal military barracks, they are livable, but very small and outdated.
    Read 929 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 76% Acceptance Rate
    • $31,349 Net Price
    • 1100-1290 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  19. Biola University

    • 4 Year
    • La Mirada, CA
    • 2,131 reviews
    #17 Top Private Universities in California

    Freshman: The community is like no other, I just finished my first year at Biola University and I can tell you that life will never be the same after being there. I've loved every minute of my attendance and promise that to any newcomer that is considering Biola as a place that they want to further their education. The campus is on the smaller side but that just encourages the intimacy between friendships. The professors are very student oriented, they love what they are doing and are passionate about their students' education. The diversity is impeccable. There are students from so many different countries, there are clubs and events dedicated towards making them feel at home. Biola has an excellent Campus Safety program designed to keep its students safe even while walking around at night. There has not been one moment that I have felt violated or unsafe on this campus. Overall I love this place and wish with every bone in my body that I will be able to return for my second year!
    Read 2,131 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 72% Acceptance Rate
    • $33,206 Net Price
    • 1060-1300 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  22. Westmont College

    • 4 Year
    • Santa Barbara, CA
    • 465 reviews
    #18 Top Private Universities in California

    Niche User: Over spring break, my parents and I spent an entire day at Westmont College. It was the best day ever! After we checked in, we were given a walking tour of the beautiful campus. I then sat in on a Business class taught by a very engaging instructor. After a delicious lunch in the cafeteria, we met with one of the professors from the school of business. We then met with the director of finance to discuss tuition and financial aid options. I hope I am able to attend Westmont College. Westmont is my number one choice of schools, and I hope and pray that I get in!
    Read 465 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 81% Acceptance Rate
    • $32,699 Net Price
    • 1060-1280 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  23. University of the Pacific

    • 4 Year
    • Stockton, CA
    • 1,181 reviews
    #19 Top Private Universities in California

    Junior: University of the Pacific offers a great range of programs. I am currently in the Speech Language Pathology program which is amazing! The classes are not impacted and you have a great student teacher relationship. They genuinely care about how you do academically and offer around the clock help. The teachers really prepare you for your career, they introduce us to actual things we will be using in our field. An overall rate for the school and my program is exceeding expectations.
    Read 1,181 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 65% Acceptance Rate
    • $32,715 Net Price
    • 1070-1330 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  24. Stanbridge University

    • 4 Year
    • Irvine, CA
    • 43 reviews
    #20 Top Private Universities in California

    Freshman: My overall experience with Stanbridge University is excellent! I fell in love with the school and their programs the second I toured the school. The staff is absolutely amazing and really care about their students and want to see them succeed.
    Read 43 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 58% Acceptance Rate
    • $23,224 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  25. Azusa Pacific University

    • 4 Year
    • Azusa, CA
    • 2,597 reviews
    #21 Top Private Universities in California

    Sophomore: Overall, I am very pleased to be able to attend this university. The professors, students, and other employees on campus are friendly and are eager to engage in conversation. Because it is a private school, professors deal with smaller classroom sizes. Thus, they are far more involved with the education and well-being of the students. In addition, student-led tutoring services are free for any students requiring extra practice or explanation on a particular topic. The food and dining services--typically comprised of mini-marts and a large dining hall--on-campus are varied and extremely convenient when traveling between classes. Unfortunately, because the campus is divided into two properties (East and West Campus), some students find it difficult taking the trolley between campuses for class during the busier hours of the day, choosing instead to walk the 10 or 15 minutes down the road instead of waiting for a usually crowded trolley.
    Read 2,597 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 60% Acceptance Rate
    • $28,784 Net Price
    • 990-1220 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  26. Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising - Los Angeles

    • 4 Year
    • Los Angeles, CA
    • 562 reviews
    #22 Top Private Universities in California

    Freshman: As a student who just recently visited the FIDM Los Angeles campus, I can say that my first impressions of the school greatly met my expectations. The campus is beautiful! Each class has about 15 students or less which if you enjoy being in a smaller setting, you'd definitely love FIDM. Everyone is friendly and I cannot wait to start my freshman year in the Fall.
    Read 562 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 39% Acceptance Rate
    • $40,448 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  29. University of La Verne

    • 4 Year
    • La Verne, CA
    • 1,049 reviews
    #23 Top Private Universities in California

    Alum: I absolutely loved my university. Diving head first into a masters program outside of this university, makes me miss it more and more each day. I loved every aspect of this small community within La Verne. I truly felt more welcome than at any place or school so far in my life. The faculty provides hands on experience and aid to those that really need it. Professors were mainly just a phone call or text away. Student body was very diverse and the mindset that embodied these individuals was very intuitive and creative. The only thing I would change about this school would be the dining hall food!
    Read 1,049 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 48% Acceptance Rate
    • $27,718 Net Price
    • 1020-1190 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  30. The Master's University

    • 4 Year
    • Santa Clarita, CA
    • 454 reviews
    #24 Top Private Universities in California

    Freshman: I'm taking online classes with The Master's University, and quite enjoying them! The teachers are excellent at interacting and responding to questions, and the lectures are presented in a clear and orderly way. There's still plenty of interaction between students in the discussion boards, and the flexibility of the online schedule is allowing me to work, travel, volunteer, and still finish college!
    Read 454 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 66% Acceptance Rate
    • $26,809 Net Price
    • 1030-1240 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  31. William Jessup University

    • 4 Year
    • Rocklin, CA
    • 383 reviews
    #25 Top Private Universities in California

    Sophomore: I absolutely love William Jessup University! I love the Christ-centered education and atmosphere. The professors here genuinely care about the success of their students and they make sure to keep their doors and hearts open for their students. The environment in general is just welcoming and when you walk on campus, the people there make sure to make you feel like you already belong.
    Read 383 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 66% Acceptance Rate
    • $22,503 Net Price
    • 1000-1220 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  32. Sponsored

    California Lutheran University

    • 4 Year
    • Thousand Oaks, CA
    • 1,065 reviews

    Niche User: Even before college was on my brain I was comfortable with CLU! The community is so close together and everyone I have met is so friendly. After applying and being accepted to CLU, everyone I have gone to with questions were so helpful. The counselors and professors are very supportive when it comes to changing your major, which is something I was personally looking for. The average classroom size is around 17 people, so you really get to know your professor, as well as have to opportunity to ask questions!
    Read 1,065 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 73% Acceptance Rate
    • $28,241 Net Price
    • 1060-1230 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
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    Vanguard University of Southern California

    • 4 Year
    • Costa Mesa, CA
    • 839 reviews

    Sophomore: Vanguard University is WONDERFUl school! Its staff/faculty are all amazing people who are very helpful and they are extremely dedicated to each student. As I am currently entering the second half of my sophomore year here I can confidently say that I love this school. From being openly God driven to the simple and sweet encouraging students everywhere on campus I cannot express much impactful each day here is. God is currently moving in a mighty way on the campus. There is an immense hunger for God and so many opportunities to help/serve yourself and the community here. Each day is purposeful with a neverending reminder that with God ALL IS POSSIBLE!
    Read 839 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 47% Acceptance Rate
    • $21,611 Net Price
    • 930-1120 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  36. Sponsored

    The Los Angeles Film School

    • 4 Year
    • Hollywood, CA
    • 317 reviews

    Freshman: The school offers so many amazing resources! In the heart of los angeles they have an amazing roommate program because so many student move here from all over the world. The professors are so helpful and invest encouragement, advice, and time to all the students. Its a great community of people who all have a goal of inspiring the film industry and making a difference. I would definitely recommend a 10/10 for anyone considering this school. Its never to late no matter how old you are, whether you are fresh out of high school or you just retired. They welcome any & everyone!
    Read 317 Reviews

    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $29,283 Net Price
    Will You Get In?
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