Resources for Students in California
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.
by Erin Treder
Updated September 7, 2023
Is Community College Free in California?
by Nalea Ko
Updated March 28, 2024
Is Studying in California Worth It?
by Tessa Cooper
Updated September 1, 2023
International Students’ Guide to Studying in California
by Marisa Upson
Updated July 17, 2023
California 529 Plan: What College Savers Should Know
by Lyss Welding
Updated December 8, 2023
What Are the Best UC Schools?
by Marisa Upson
Updated July 31, 2023
Student Life
8 Reasons to Study in California
by Reese Lopez
Updated August 1, 2023
10 Degrees That Make Sense to Earn in California
Most Popular Majors in California
California Community Colleges Will Add 7 New Bachelor’s Degrees
Master of Social Work (MSW) Programs in California
Master’s in Healthcare Programs in California
Best Online Colleges in California of 2025
by Jordan Stewart-Rozema, Ph.D.
Updated December 4, 2024
Best Trade Schools in California
by Alison Plaut
Updated September 17, 2024
Colleges in San Francisco: All 15 Schools
by Nalea Ko
Updated October 18, 2023
Find a Coding Bootcamp
Coding Bootcamps in Los Angeles
by Nalea Ko
Updated August 16, 2023
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.
All California Resources
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