2022 Top Private Colleges and Universities in California

Private colleges and universities frequently top the lists of the best schools in the U.S. These institutions offer rigorous academic programs for students looking for a personalized college experience.

Private institutions generally cost more than their public counterparts, but students often receive the benefits of smaller class sizes, strong alumni networks, and generous financial aid opportunities.

Unlike public colleges and universities, private institutions do not differentiate between in-state and out-of-state tuition. This means students from anywhere can enroll in California’s private institutions without paying higher out-of-state rates.

2022 Best Private Colleges and Universities in California

At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.

Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that is best for you.

This site 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.

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Showing 30 schools

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    Avg Tuition per YearTuition is the price you pay to attend classes. Tuition varies by school, and does not include costs associated with room and board, books, school supplies, meal plans, or transportation.

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    #1

    Stanford University

    Stanford, CA

    Graduation Rate

    95%

    Enrollment

    15,953

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $55473

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $55473

    From its campus in Stanford, California, Stanford University offers multiple programs as a private institution. Students earn an accredited degree that prepares them for the workforce. The institution offers affordable programs that do not sacrifice academic rigor. Several of the school's programs appear in national rankings. The school's cost per credit is unknown. Degree-seekers at this accredited institution may qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. Degree-seekers choose from academic and technical programs at the institution. Depending on their major, learners complete fundamentals courses, technical classes, and general education requirements. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.

    #2

    California Institute of Technology

    Pasadena, CA

    Graduation Rate

    92%

    Enrollment

    2,240

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $54570

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $54570

    California Institute of Technology grants degrees as a private institution from its location in Pasadena, California. Enrollees take courses with experts in diverse disciplines. Students who complete a technical or academic program may enter the workforce. The amount students pay per credit is currently unknown. Enrollees at the accredited institution qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. According to the institution, 74% of students receive aid and 4% receive loans. The private school reports a graduation rate of 92%. Hopeful students can expect admission rates of 7%. Admissions advisors can provide more information about application requirements and start dates. The school holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #3

    Pomona College

    Claremont, CA

    Graduation Rate

    94%

    Enrollment

    1,475

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $54380

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $54380

    A top-ranked school, Pomona College enrolls learners in programs from its campus in Claremont, California. Degree-seekers study with experts in many different fields. The school's academic and technical tracks help students meet diverse career goals. Depending on the degree or certificate type, enrollees can spend anywhere from a few months up to as many as seven years completing a program. Some programs may let applicants apply without submitting test scores. Flexible admission score requirements make it easier to apply. The admissions department can help students complete the process. Degree-seekers also use financial aid to cover their educational costs. Pomona College is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #4

    University of Southern California

    Los Angeles, CA

    Graduation Rate

    92%

    Enrollment

    46,287

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $59260

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $59260

    University of Southern California offers programs from its campus in Los Angeles, California. The institution provides a variety of programs and coursework. The programs offer academic and technical tracks to help students meet their career goals. Learners can earn an associate degree in two years, a bachelor's degree in four years, a master's degree in 1-2 years, or a doctoral degree in 3-7 years. Some programs may no longer require standardized tests for admission. These policies make it easier to apply. The admissions department can help prospective students complete their application. Students at the accredited institution also qualify for financial aid to cover costs. University of Southern California has been accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #5

    Claremont McKenna College

    Claremont, CA

    Graduation Rate

    92%

    Enrollment

    1,264

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $56190

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $56190

    From its campus in Claremont, California, Claremont McKenna College enrolls students as a private institution. The institution's faculty brings expertise in multiple fields. The school offers academic and technical programs that prepare graduates for the workforce or further study. The amount students pay per credit on average is unknown. At the accredited school, enrollees qualify for financial aid, including federal loans, scholarships, and grants. The institution reports that 51% of learners receive financial aid, while 21% take out loans. The school reports a graduation rate of 92%. The admission rate for new students is 13%. Prospective students can contact the admissions department for more details about application requirements. Claremont McKenna College holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #6

    Pitzer College

    Claremont, CA

    Graduation Rate

    83%

    Enrollment

    922

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $55734

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $55734

    From its campus in Claremont, California, Pitzer College offers multiple programs as a private institution. Students complete programs that prepare them for the workforce. Learners benefit from academically rigorous programs at an affordable price. Students can enroll in nationally ranked programs. The school's average cost per credit is unknown. Degree-seekers at this accredited institution may qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. Degree-seekers choose from academic and technical programs at the institution. Based on their major, students take foundational courses, technical classes, and general education requirements. Pitzer College is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.

    #7

    Harvey Mudd College

    Claremont, CA

    Graduation Rate

    93%

    Enrollment

    854

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $58359

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $58359

    Harvey Mudd College, located in Claremont, California, enrolls students as a private institution. With both academic and technical programs, the college helps learners reach their professional goals. The institution's degree and certificate programs offer coursework that prepares learners for a career in their field. Some applicants qualify for a waiver for standardized test scores. A test score waiver makes it easier to apply. The school provides support such as tutoring and career services. The cost per credit is unknown. Learners at the accredited school qualify for federal financial aid programs such as the Pell Grant. The school holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.

    #8

    Soka University of America

    Aliso Viejo, CA

    Graduation Rate

    87%

    Enrollment

    403

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $32250

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $32250

    Soka University of America, located in Aliso Viejo, California, enrolls students as a private institution. Experts in diverse disciplines teach at the institution. Students who complete an academic or technical program enter the workforce or pursue a bachelor's degree. The school's average cost per credit is unknown. Students can fund their education with financial aid such as federal loans, scholarships, and grants. A total of 100% of students receive financial aid and 40% take out loans at the school. Learners graduate from the school at a rate of 87%. The school reports that the rate of admission is 52%. Admissions advisors can provide more information about application requirements and start dates. Soka University of America has been accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.

    #9

    Scripps College

    Claremont, CA

    Graduation Rate

    88%

    Enrollment

    958

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $56970

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $56970

    Located in Claremont, California, Scripps College often ranks among the best schools. Enrollees take courses with experts in diverse disciplines. The school offers academic and technical tracks to help learners meet a variety of professional goals. Academic programs can take anywhere from a few months to several years to complete, depending on degree or certificate type. Applicants may qualify for test-optional admissions. A test score waiver makes it easier to apply. The admissions department can provide more information on the process. Students also use financial aid to pay for their college degree or certificate. Scripps College has received accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #10

    California Miramar University

    San Diego, CA

    Graduation Rate

    Not Provided

    Enrollment

    174

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $9744

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $9744

    Located in San Diego, California, California Miramar University ranks as one of the top colleges. Learners choose from a variety of degree-granting programs. Academic and technical programs help learners reach their unique professional goals. Degree-seekers typically earn an associate degree in two years, a bachelor's degree in four years, a master's degree in two, and a doctoral degree in 3-7 years. Some programs may let applicants apply without submitting test scores. A test score waiver makes it easier to apply. The admissions department can provide more information on the process. Students also use financial aid to pay for their college degree. The school holds accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #11

    FIDM-Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising-Los Angeles

    Los Angeles, CA

    Graduation Rate

    72%

    Enrollment

    1,886

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $31275

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $31275

    A private institution, FIDM-Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising-Los Angeles grants degrees and certificates from its campus in Los Angeles, California. Students learn from experts in multiple disciplines. Students who complete an academic or technical program enter the workforce or pursue a bachelor's degree. Information on the school's cost per credit is unavailable. At the accredited school, learners qualify for financial aid, including federal loans, scholarships, and grants. The institution reports that 78% of learners receive financial aid, while 44% take out loans. Learners graduate from the school at a rate of 72%. The admission rate for applicants is 39%. Prospective students can contact the admission department for more information about applying. FIDM-Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising-Los Angeles is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.

    #12

    Chamberlain University-California

    Rancho Cordova, CA

    Graduation Rate

    Not Provided

    Enrollment

    263

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $20160

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $20160

    Located in Rancho Cordova, California, Chamberlain University-California awards degrees and certificates as a private institution. Learners study with experts in many different fields. The college offers academic and technical programs that prepare graduates for the workforce or further study. The amount students pay per credit on average is unknown. Students at the accredited institution qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. Data on the graduation rate is currently unavailable. The school reports that the rate of admission is 17%. The admissions office provides more information about application requirements and start dates. Chamberlain University-California is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #13

    Grace Mission University

    Fullerton, CA

    Graduation Rate

    59%

    Enrollment

    234

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $2880

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $2880

    Grace Mission University, located in Fullerton, California, often ranks as one of the best colleges. The institution offers multiple degree-granting programs. With academic and technical tracks, the school's programs help students meet their professional goals. Students typically complete an associate degree in two years, a bachelor's degree in four years, a master's degree in two, and a doctoral degree in 3-7 years. Applicants may qualify for a test score waiver. These policies make it easier to apply. The admissions department can provide additional resources on applying. Learners at the accredited institution also qualify for financial aid to cover costs. Grace Mission University has received accreditation from the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools.

    #14

    FIDM-Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising-San Francisco

    San Francisco, CA

    Graduation Rate

    72%

    Enrollment

    113

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $31275

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $31275

    A private institution, FIDM-Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising-San Francisco enrolls students from its campus in San Francisco, California. Instructors draw on their expertise in diverse fields. The school offers academic and technical programs that prepare graduates for a successful career. Data on the school's average cost per credit is currently unavailable. Students at the accredited institution qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. The institution reports that 86% of students receive financial aid and 48% take out loans. The institution reports a 72% graduation rate. Hopeful learners can expect admission rates of 32%. The admission department can provide more information about application requirements and start dates. The school holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.

    #15

    Pepperdine University

    Malibu, CA

    Graduation Rate

    89%

    Enrollment

    9,554

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $57750

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $57750

    From its campus in Malibu, California, Pepperdine University educates college students as a private institution. With both academic and technical programs, the college helps students reach their professional goals. During a bachelor's degree, learners take lower-division and upper-division coursework. The 120-credit bachelor's programs also include general education credits. Degree-seekers learn advanced concepts in their major during upper-division courses. The school supports learners with tutoring and career services. Students can expect to spend around 1756 per credit at the school. Learners at this accredited institution also qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. Pepperdine University has received accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #16

    Occidental College

    Los Angeles, CA

    Graduation Rate

    84%

    Enrollment

    1,839

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $55980

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $55980

    Located in Los Angeles, California, Occidental College educates students as a private institution. With both academic and technical programs, the college helps learners reach their professional goals. Students gain knowledge and skill specific to their field by completing their program's coursework requirements. Some programs may no longer require standardized tests for admission. The waiver makes it simpler to apply. The school supports learners with tutoring and career services. The amount students pay per credit is unknown at this time. Learners at the accredited school often fund their education with federal aid programs, including the Pell Grant. Occidental College is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #17

    Thomas Aquinas College

    Santa Paula, CA

    Graduation Rate

    84%

    Enrollment

    462

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $26000

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $26000

    From its campus in Santa Paula, California, Thomas Aquinas College enrolls students as a private institution. Degree-seekers take courses with experts in diverse disciplines. The college offers academic and technical programs that prepare graduates for the workforce or further study. The amount students pay per credit is unknown at this time. Students at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs, including the Pell Grant. At the institution, 86% of students receive aid and 70% receive loans. The private school reports a graduation rate of 84%. Prospective enrollees can expect an admission rate of 86%. Prospective applicants can contact an admission advisor to learn more about applying. The school holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.

    #18

    Santa Clara University

    Santa Clara, CA

    Graduation Rate

    92%

    Enrollment

    8,616

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $52998

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $52998

    Santa Clara University, located in Santa Clara, California, enrolls students as a private institution. Degree-seekers study with experts in many different fields. The school offers academic and technical programs that prepare graduates for the workforce or a bachelor's degree. The cost per credit is unknown. At the accredited institution, degree-seekers qualify for financial aid, including federal loans, scholarships, and grants. According to the institution, 74% of students receive aid and 26% receive loans. Enrollees graduate from the school at a rate of 92%. Prospective enrollees can expect an 51% admission rate. Prospective applicants can contact the admissions office for more information about applying. Santa Clara University has been accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #19

    Lincoln University

    Oakland, CA

    Graduation Rate

    80%

    Enrollment

    371

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $10920

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $10920

    A private institution, Lincoln University grants degrees from its campus in Oakland, California. The college offers academic and technical programs to help learners reach their educational goals. The institution's bachelor's programs incorporate lower-division and upper-division requirements. Bachelor's programs also incorporate general education credits. Upper-division courses emphasize advanced concepts in the major. The school supports students with tutoring and career services. The institution's cost per credit is unknown. Learners at this accredited institution also qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. Lincoln University has received accreditation from the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools.

    #20

    California Institute of the Arts

    Valencia, CA

    Graduation Rate

    66%

    Enrollment

    1,166

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $52850

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $52850

    From its campus in Valencia, California, California Institute of the Arts awards degrees as a top school. The college enrolls students in high-value programs and courses. The programs offer academic and technical tracks to help learners meet their career goals. Enrollees can earn an associate degree in two years, a bachelor's degree in four years, a master's degree in 1-2 years, or a doctoral degree in 3-7 years. Some programs provide a test-optional admission option. Test-optional policies make it easier to apply. Admission advisors can provide more information on the application process. Learners also use financial aid to pay for their college degree. The school holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.

    #21

    Gnomon

    Hollywood, CA

    Graduation Rate

    100%

    Enrollment

    575

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $30309

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $30309

    Gnomon enrolls students at its Hollywood, California campus as a private institution. Experts in diverse disciplines teach at the institution. The school offers academic and technical programs that prepare graduates for the workforce or further study. The school's average cost per credit is unknown. Students at the accredited institution qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. A total of 63% of students receive financial aid and 27% take out loans at the institution. The school reports a 100% graduation rate. The admission rate for applicants is 50%. Prospective students can contact the admission department for more information about applying. Gnomon is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, an independent accrediting body.

    #22

    California Christian College

    Fresno, CA

    Graduation Rate

    Not Provided

    Enrollment

    13

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $9360

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $9360

    From its campus in Fresno, California, California Christian College offers programs as a private institution. The school offers academic and technical programs to help learners reach their educational goals. The institution's degree and certificate programs offer coursework that prepares students for advancement in their field. Depending on the program, applicants may need to submit standardized test scores. This makes it easier to enroll. Learners benefit from support services, which include tutoring and career counseling. The cost per credit is unknown. Learners at the accredited school qualify for federal financial aid programs such as the Pell Grant. The school is accredited by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools.

    #23

    Pacific Oaks College

    Pasadena, CA

    Graduation Rate

    Not Provided

    Enrollment

    1,238

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $11482

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $11482

    From its campus in Pasadena, California, Pacific Oaks College enrolls students as a private institution. The institution's faculty brings expertise in multiple fields. Students who complete an academic or technical program often enter the workforce right away. The institution's cost per credit is unknown. At the accredited institution, students qualify for financial aid, including federal loans, scholarships, and grants. Data on the graduation rate is currently unavailable. The admission rate is 27% for hopeful students. Prospective applicants can contact the admissions office for more information about applying. Pacific Oaks College has been accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #24

    Loyola Marymount University

    Los Angeles, CA

    Graduation Rate

    83%

    Enrollment

    9,686

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $51820

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $51820

    Loyola Marymount University is a private institution located in Los Angeles, California. Instructors draw on their expertise in diverse fields. The school offers academic and technical programs that prepare graduates for the workforce or further study. The institution charges 1970 per credit for its programs. Students at the accredited institution qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. At the institution, 93% of students receive aid and 34% receive loans. Students graduate from the school at a rate of 83%. Hopeful students can expect admission rates of 50%. The admission department can provide more information about application requirements. Loyola Marymount University has been accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.

    #25

    University of San Diego

    San Diego, CA

    Graduation Rate

    80%

    Enrollment

    8,861

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $52120

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $52120

    Located in California, University of San Diego offers 115 programs for students. Students enjoy rigorous programs that rank among the best in the nation. The school reports a 13-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. A total of 82% of students receive some form of financial aid. The school reports a 80% graduation rate. Real-world experience helps candidates stand out on the job market. Learners benefit from internships, research opportunities, and other forms of service learning. The admission rate for incoming students is 59%. Some programs provide a test-optional admission option.

    #26

    Southern California Institute of Technology

    Anaheim, CA

    Graduation Rate

    77%

    Enrollment

    568

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $15790

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $15790

    A private institution, Southern California Institute of Technology educates students on its campus in Anaheim, California. With both academic and technical programs, the school helps learners reach their educational goals. Students gain knowledge and skill specific to their field by completing their program's coursework requirements. Applicants may qualify for a test score waiver. These policies make it easier to apply. Learners benefit from support services like tutoring and career counseling. The cost per credit is unknown. Learners at the accredited school qualify for federal student aid programs. The school holds accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.

    #27

    Beverly Hills Design Institute

    Beverly Hills, CA

    Graduation Rate

    Not Provided

    Enrollment

    14

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $23220

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $23220

    From its campus in Beverly Hills, California, Beverly Hills Design Institute enrolls students in programs as a private institution. The school offers programs that prepare graduates for careers and professional advancement. Learners benefit from academically rigorous programs at an affordable price. Several of the school's programs appear in national rankings. Information on the school's cost per credit is unavailable. Degree-seekers at the accredited school may qualify for federal financial aid, including the Pell Grant. Degree-seekers choose from academic and technical programs at the school. The school offers foundational courses, technical classes, and general education courses in multiple majors. Beverly Hills Design Institute holds accreditation from the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, an independent accrediting body.

    #28

    Southern States University

    San Diego, CA

    Graduation Rate

    Not Provided

    Enrollment

    358

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $5568

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $5568

    Southern States University, a private institution in San Diego, California, enrolls learners in multiple programs. With both academic and technical programs, the school helps learners reach their educational goals. The institution's degree and certificate programs offer coursework that prepares students for advancement in their field. Applicants may qualify for a test score waiver. This makes it easier to enroll. The school provides support such as tutoring and career services. The amount students pay per credit on average is unknown. The accredited school qualifies for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. Southern States University has received accreditation from the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, an independent accrediting body.

    #29

    Chapman University

    Orange, CA

    Graduation Rate

    80%

    Enrollment

    9,761

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $56830

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $56830

    From its location in Orange, California, Chapman University offers multiple programs as a private institution. Enrollees earn an accredited degree that prepares them for the workforce. Learners benefit from academically rigorous programs at an affordable price. The school offers nationally ranked programs in diverse fields. Data on the school's average cost per credit is currently unavailable. Students attending the accredited institution may qualify for federal financial aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. Learners at the school choose from academic and technical programs. Depending on their major, learners complete fundamentals courses, technical classes, and general education requirements. The school holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission, an independent accrediting body.

    #30

    Southern California Institute of Architecture

    Los Angeles, CA

    Graduation Rate

    76%

    Enrollment

    481

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $46878

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $46878

    A private institution located in Los Angeles, California, Southern California Institute of Architecture offers a variety of programs. The school offers accredited programs that prepare learners for the workforce. Learners benefit from the school's academic rigor and affordable tuition rate. The school boasts several programs that appear in national rankings. The school's cost per credit is unknown. As an accredited institution, degree-seekers qualify for federal student aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. Degree-seekers choose from academic and technical programs at the institution. Depending on their program, enrollees complete foundational courses, technical classes, and general education requirements. Southern California Institute of Architecture is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.

    Explore Additional California College Rankings

    Why Choose a Private College or University in California?

    Many prospective students struggle to choose between private vs. public school. With almost 350 private universities and colleges in California offering two- and four-year degrees, prospective college students in the state may be even more confused. Learners interested in studying in California need to weigh the pros and cons of public and private education to choose the right college.

    Private schools have a lot to offer compared to public schools, including smaller class sizes, specialized training, and personalized support. The large number of prestigious private institutions in California also gives students more options than the state’s 160 public colleges and universities. Yet, private schools have drawbacks as well.

    Private colleges in California charge higher average tuition rates than public colleges, even though scholarships may be more accessible for students attending private schools. The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) opens the door to even more offerings and financial savings for public school learners interested in studying in other states.

    Pros and Cons of Attending a Private College or University in California

    Pros

    • Check Circle
      Greater selection of schools, along with specialized programs and courses
    • Check Circle
      More prestigious institutions and alumni support
    • Check Circle
      Smaller class sizes and more personalized support services
    • Check Circle
      Admission requirements that often focus more on extracurricular achievements
    • Check Circle
      Smaller and more intimate campus community
    • Check Circle
      More one-on-one instructor time and support

    Cons

    • X Circle
      Higher tuition and living costs, which can lead to larger student debts
    • X Circle
      Fewer on-campus facilities, student organizations, and extracurricular activities
    • X Circle
      No reciprocity agreements with neighboring states to offer reduced tuition rates
    • X Circle
      Stricter academic admission requirements
    • X Circle
      Fewer programs to choose from
    • X Circle
      Less diverse student body

    Nonprofit vs. For-Profit Colleges and Universities in California

    When choosing whether to attend a private college or university in California, students should consider whether the schools they are looking at are nonprofit or for-profit institutions. The major difference between nonprofit vs. for-profit schools is how they handle funding. Public schools are always nonprofit, while private schools may be nonprofit or for-profit.

    Since private colleges do not receive government funding like public schools do, they rely on tuition fees to keep themselves running. Private nonprofit colleges must reinvest their earnings back into programs, faculty, and school services, whereas for-profit schools can pay out owners and investors.

    Students may find that for-profit schools offer more career-based programs and more diverse student bodies. Conversely, these institutions have the lowest six-year graduation rates and highest graduate loan debt rates, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). There are 163 for-profit private colleges and universities in California.

    How Much Does It Cost to Attend a Private College or University in California?

    According to NCES, the average tuition rate among California’s private four-year colleges was roughly $37,010 in 2019-2020. Room cost $8,180, and board cost about $6,560 per year. While private schools typically cost more than public schools, there are misconceptions about paying for college that may prevent prospective students from exploring private options.

    For example, private colleges award considerably more scholarship dollars to students than public schools, according to NCES. California is even home to tuition-free private institutions, such as Valley College. Conversely, the most expensive private colleges and universities in California — including Harvey Mudd College and Scripps College — charge annual tuition rates over $60,000.

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    Frequently Asked Questions About Private Colleges and Universities in California

    How many private colleges and universities are there in California?

    According to NCES’ College Navigator, there are 347 private colleges and universities in California. This includes 184 nonprofit colleges and universities and 163 for-profit schools. There are 125 2-year schools and 258 private 4-year colleges in the state.

    If you extend the parameters and include private colleges and universities that run programs that take fewer than 2 years to complete, the number of private institutions in California grows to over 500. Many of these institutions are counted more than once to account for their multiple campuses and locations.

    What is the most expensive private college or university in California?

    Prospective students will find several of the country’s most expensive private colleges and universities in California. Harvey Mudd College, Scripps College, and the University of Southern California charge the highest tuition rates among private colleges in the state.

    Each of these schools charges tuition prices over $60,000. California’s private and public school tuition rates exceed the national averages, as per NCES. Students should explore all their financial aid options to help manage the cost of college.

    What is the least expensive private college or university in California?

    Other than Valley College, which charges no tuition to a select group of students, the least expensive private colleges and universities in California include the Taft University System, Bethesda University of California, and World Mission University.

    Each of these schools charge less than $7,000 per year for certain undergraduate programs. Select undergraduate programs, graduate, and doctoral programs may cost more.

    Is a private college or university right for me?

    Each student needs to figure this answer out for themself. Private colleges and universities in California offer some of the best training available, and the state features several of the most prestigious schools in the world. However, prospective learners should weigh the pros and cons.

    Private colleges in California typically cost more than public schools. They may also have more limited program offerings, campus facilities, and student organizations. Conversely, private schools tend to offer more financial aid opportunities than public schools, along with more specialized support services, smaller class sizes, and specialized programming.

    Can I get more scholarship money at a private college or university?

    Yes. Private nonprofit colleges and universities award significantly more scholarship dollars to students than public schools. According to NCES, the average scholarship and grant award was $24,080 for first-time students at private colleges from all income levels during the 2018-2019 academic year. At public schools, the average scholarship amount was $8,310 the same year.

    To find scholarships for college students, prospective learners should begin by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid(FAFSA). Next, they can look through online college scholarship databases and resource pages. Prospective students should also look at their school’s financial aid pages for school- and program-specific awards.