2024 Top Public Universities in California

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  5,527 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 5,527 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $13,393

• SAT range —

• Berkeley, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  4,426 reviews

Senior: It's a big school so it was a little difficult to transition into my freshman year, but once I looked at the different resources and organizations the university offered, I loved it! It's really important to get involved while you're there. I was involved in different pre-law organizations, ASUC, Cal Cheerleading, and others and it was a great experience. It's a little difficult getting classes especially in your first or second year, but once you declare your major it's a lot easier. My major advisor Lauri is the best. She's super helpful and has made my time at Berkeley a lot easier. I would like to see an easier way for students to enroll to classes they need easier. I would also like for the university to recognize cheer as a sport so cheerleaders can have access to academic accommodations, as they are at all the sports events and have hours of practice per week.... Read 4,426 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 14%

• Net price $17,652

• SAT range 1310-1530

• Irvine, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  4,226 reviews

Junior: The campus community thrives on inclusivity and support, with individuals eager to engage in meaningful conversations and lend a helping hand. UCI has a myriad of club opportunities available. No matter your interests, there is an organization that caters to your passions that provide avenues for personal development and also serve as platforms for making lifelong friendships with like-minded individuals! The campus boasts a wide array of support resources aimed at ensuring the success and well-being of every student. Academic support centers, tutoring programs, and career services are readily available, empowering students to excel in their studies and prepare for their future endeavors. A big plus is that within a short walking distance there is a lot of dining options. Additionally, the convenience of nearby grocery stores and transportation to them ensures that students can easily access the essentials they need, making life on campus incredibly convenient.... Read 4,226 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $11,633

• SAT range 1230-1430

• La Jolla, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  3,923 reviews

Sophomore: So far UCSD has been an amazing second home, with so many resources available to me. I have ventured out of my comfort zone by joining clubs and meeting new people! The professors are always striving to help us students learn better and willing to lend a helping hand whenever we need further explanation. I have grown comfortable with my new environment and the school itself, and cannot wait to spend the rest of my undergraduate years here at UCSD.... Read 3,923 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 34%

• Net price $15,632

• SAT range —

• Santa Barbara, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  4,692 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 4,692 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $17,333

• SAT range 1230-1460

• Davis, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  5,064 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 5,064 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 49%

• Net price $16,640

• SAT range 1160-1400

• Long Beach, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  4,824 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 4,824 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $9,171

• SAT range 1020-1240

• San Luis Obispo, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  3,962 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 3,962 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 33%

• Net price $20,708

• SAT range 1240-1440

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  5,343 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 5,343 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 38%

• Net price $6,867

• SAT range 1090-1300

• Riverside, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  3,660 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 3,660 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $13,502

• SAT range 1080-1280

• Fullerton, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  5,248 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 5,248 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $4,939

• SAT range 1000-1180

• Turlock, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  1,223 reviews

Senior: I love the school. The staff, teachers, and everything about their Turlock campus was amazing! The campus was beautiful and everyone I had encountered with was very nice and helpful. If I hadn't had to move away further from the campus due to person reasons, I would still attend classes in person because of the energy and atmosphere it provided.... Read 1,223 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $7,230

• SAT range 810-1030

• Sacramento, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  3,874 reviews

Junior: Being a transfer student, I was scared of being a new university student. But, the family here at Sacramento state has welcomed me with open arms. There are many resources on campus for those from all walks of life. There are over 1,000 clubs on campus, many resources, and professors who want you to succeed. A crucial backbone any student needs when pursuing a higher education. All of my professors have been very helpful and support me like no other. Sacramento state provides students with many off campus resources as well. For example, my nursing professor connected me to a volunteering opportunity at a local hospital! A lush green environment makes me feel cozy and safe. One critical fact about Sacramento state is that the on-campus police is available 24/7 to walk you to your class, car, etc. A major factor to consider when choosing a college. Student life is also very welcoming with happy and engaging classmates everywhere you turn. Great mental health resources also available!... Read 3,874 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $7,778

• SAT range 930-1130

• Santa Cruz, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  4,002 reviews

Freshman: My experience at UC Santa Cruz has been fantastic! The campus is stunning, surrounded by nature, and I love exploring the redwood forests. The sense of community is strong, with approachable faculty and small class sizes for personalized attention. The diverse student body creates an inclusive learning environment. The academic programs offer a wide range of courses, allowing me to tailor my education. I appreciate the emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and research opportunities. While I'd like to see more resources for mental health and career support, overall, UCSC has contributed greatly to my growth.... Read 4,002 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $19,615

• SAT range 1160-1360

• Northridge, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  5,017 reviews

Alum: What I enjoyed from California State University, Northridge is that a lot of the professors are very considerate of the students and they also know how to teach the subject pretty well, whether it be kinesiology classes, or general education classes. The diversity in this school helps you feel like you belong in a higher education school. I also appreciate the amenities that come with paying your tuition, such as the Student Recreational Center, the Oasis Center, and the Oviatt Library. The Student Recreational Center is a gym with 3 floors, indoor rock-climbing, indoor basketball, indoor volleyball, indoor soccer, indoor track and even has a recreational pool! The Library was four floors and very resourceful. The rest of my 5 years there were mostly online due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the school was very supportive throughout this time. The only change I would like to see would be to have more consistency with Canvas for some professors, otherwise my experience at CSUN was amazing.... Read 5,017 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $8,708

• SAT range 900-1110

• Chico, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  2,556 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 2,556 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $13,749

• SAT range 970-1170

• Merced, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  2,210 reviews

Sophomore: I love the environment that the University of California, Merced, creates. It's such a vibrant and lively experience. Along with its knit tight community, there are plenty of things you are able to do. From going to the gym, swimming in its public lake not 20 mins away from its campus, to going to jazz clubs and thrift stores. There are also plenty of opportunities that you are able to take, such as becoming a financial advisor, to job shadowing engineers, and even being your own engineer. There are multiple clubs and fraternity's that you can become a part of if that's your thing! Such as the AIAA club; a club based around engineers. In this club, you are able to build your own aviation creation from complete scratch! An awesome experience if you ask me. Other than that, Merced, as I said before, is a lively school. Everybody is friendly and nice, including the professors!... Read 2,210 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 87%

• Net price $11,586

• SAT range 960-1140

• Camarillo, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  1,100 reviews

Senior: My experience with Channel Islands Business School has been incredible. I've been going to online school for a couple of years and couldn't be happier about attending this college. Not only have my classes been supportive, but the faculty at the school has continuously shown they care about each student. I feel confident that I can get my degree and continue striving with whatever I set my mind to. One thing I would like to see change is more students attending online school as it's proof that it can cater to different types of learning abilities. Thank you!... Read 1,100 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $14,493

• SAT range 850-1060

• Pomona, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,233 reviews

Senior: Cal Poly is an amazing school, there is a lot of problems with it when it comes to the size of the campus and the difficulty of the classes. However, I think overall going to CPP has been great and I have become a better person because I went here. Some professors are worse than others but I have met absolutely some of the best professors ever here and even some of them helped me get into the professional career. I think if you go to college seriously and want to really better your life this is a great school. Also the social life in Cal Poly is great too! lots of parties, and good times to be had here if you live on dorms or around the campus! I love it here and I have really grown since going to CPP. I recommend it to anyone especially in engineering or science fields.... Read 3,233 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $12,942

• SAT range 1010-1250

• San Jose, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  4,312 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 4,312 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $14,603

• SAT range 1010-1240

• San Bernardino, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  2,774 reviews

Graduate Student: I went into Cal State San Bernardino as an undergrad in 2019 and I majored in Kinesiology and minored in Psyc. In the beginning, I was upset about going here because I'd never seen the campus, and growing up I would hear bad reviews about it. On my orientation day, I was so surprised walking on campus because the campus was just mouth-dropping! I could not believe that the campus was so beautiful. The staff is amazing and the professors for the kinesiology apartment go above and beyond. They say in college that no one holds your hand and that it's your responsibility to push yourself. And yes that is true but here my professors hold my hand and guided me to be a better student and a better studied. I enjoyed every minute of my college life here. When covid hit, it was a challenge but once again the staff just went above and beyond to still make it the best experience. I enjoyed the campus so much that I became a student mentor for incoming freshman and transfer students.... Read 2,774 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $3,254

• SAT range 910-1080

• Bakersfield, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,205 reviews

Freshman: My time at CSUB has yet to start as I am beginning the first semester this fall. However, as of late, all of the staff and student body has been welcoming to every student. I love that the campus is clean, big, and close to home. I love that the school provides students with opportunities to relax or further their studies in the library and several shops around the area. They encourage students who visit campus to take part in any of the many clubs that exist, and student exclusive activities, such as rock climbing, visiting the gym, or trying out for sports!... Read 1,205 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $7,368

• SAT range 790-1020

• Fresno, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  2,850 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 2,850 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $6,336

• SAT range 890-1100

• San Marcos, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  1,849 reviews

Junior: My experience at California State University San Marcos was pretty fun. I had amazing professors who actually loved to teach their subjects and were always so helpful when I needed it. The professors are usually very flexible and provide office hours to provide more help on assignments or just questions in general. Dorm life is a bit tricky, finding the right roommates can be tough and sometimes you go through processes of trial and error to find what is most comfortable and best for you. Campus food was very tasty! They had new types of food places added in the middle of campus. I loved the fact that there is a Starbucks on campus, I would always get a quick pick-me-up before my longest classes. Sometimes the lines can be long but that's expected! In general, San Marcos is a very nice area and there is so much to see and do. When you need a stress-free break from school, most students will take beach trips and relax. San Marcos is a very peaceful city.... Read 1,849 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $14,296

• SAT range 950-1130

• Vallejo, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.08 out of 5  160 reviews

Freshman: Going into college with the expectation of a significant transition from high school was indeed a major adjustment. During the first week of moving into the dorms, I disliked the experience. However, I received a basketball scholarship and accepted the opportunity. Unfortunately, I did not meet the academic requirements during my first semester, and when I discovered that I was no longer eligible to play basketball, it devastated me. However, in the following spring semester, I underwent a complete transformation, and my grades improved significantly. One aspect of Cal Maritime that I found dissatisfying was the limited food options, particularly considering the high prices we paid. Nevertheless, I recognize that each college has its own unique characteristics, and it's unlikely to find one that is perfect in every aspect. The food selection was one of the most prominent aspects that could potentially be improved.... Read 160 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $16,924

• SAT range 960-1190