Resources for Students in California
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Going to College in the Golden State
As the most populous state in the U.S., California is a major player in higher education. The Golden State ranks first in the nation for college enrollment, with more than 2.58 million students attending California colleges in the fall of 2020.
California is also home to some of the country’s top colleges, including UCLA, Stanford, and UC Berkeley.
Our guide to resources for students in California gives you an overview of higher education in the Golden State. Read on to learn about college planning, top schools, and career options after graduation.
Best Colleges in California + Full List of Schools
Between top schools and sunny weather, California has a lot to offer. Discover the best colleges in California and get a full list of schools in the state.
College Planning
How Much Does It Cost to Study and Live in California?
UC vs. CSU: How Do the Two University Systems Compare?
In-State vs. Out-of-State Tuition in California
Is Community College Free in California?
Is Studying in California Worth It?
International Students’ Guide to Studying in California
California 529 Plan: What College Savers Should Know
What Are the Best UC Schools?
What Are the Best Cal State Schools?
Student Life
The Best College Towns in California
8 Reasons to Study in California
21 Exciting California Spring Break Trips for College Students
7 Weirdest College Mascots in California
Academics
College Rankings
Best Online Colleges in California 2024
Community Colleges in California: All 140+ Schools
Colleges in Los Angeles: A Complete List
Private Colleges in California: A Complete List
Best Trade Schools in California
Colleges in San Diego: Full List of Schools
Colleges in San Francisco: All 15 Schools
Best Colleges in Riverside
Find a Coding Bootcamp
Coding Bootcamps in Los Angeles
Coding Bootcamps in San Francisco
Coding Bootcamps in San Diego
Coding Bootcamps in San Jose
Frequently Asked Questions About California Colleges
What is the hardest school to get into in California?
Stanford and Caltech rank as the most selective colleges in California. As of 2023, Stanford boasts an acceptance rate of 3.68%. Caltech maintains a similarly exclusive acceptance rate of 3.9%.
Stanford receives a huge number of applicants each year, accepting just 2,075 students from a pool of over 56,000 in 2023. The same year, Caltech accepted just 510 students from an applicant pool of over 13,000.
How many colleges are in California?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, California is home to more than 200 four-year colleges and universities. The state has 248 two-year colleges, including community colleges and vocational schools.
California also has 194 colleges that take under two years to graduate, such as beauty schools and other technical training centers.
What is the largest college in California?
USC ranks as the largest college in California by enrollment, with about 49,000 students enrolled in 2023. Graduate students make up the majority of USC’s student population, with 28,000 students. UCLA ranks as the second-largest school by enrollment, with 46,430 students.