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Colleges and Universities in California
California — the Golden State — is home to 452 accredited colleges and universities, including 137 public institutions and 315 private schools. The state flagship, University of California Los Angeles, anchors a higher education landscape that ranges from large research universities in Los Angeles to small liberal arts colleges across the state.
Use the college finder above to search every accredited institution in California. Filter by tuition cost, institution type, acceptance rate, and more to build your 2026 college list.
Higher education in California at a glance
- Total accredited colleges: 452
- Public universities: 137
- Private colleges: 315
- Flagship institution: University of California Los Angeles
- Largest higher-ed city: Los Angeles
Types of colleges in California
Public universities in California are state-funded institutions that offer significantly reduced in-state tuition to California residents. These schools are typically larger, with broad program offerings across undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees.
Private colleges in California include both nonprofit institutions — which reinvest tuition revenue into academics and financial aid — and for-profit schools focused on career and technical programs. Private nonprofit colleges in California often have smaller class sizes and more generous need-based aid packages than their published tuition suggests.
Frequently asked questions — colleges in California
How many colleges are in California?
There are 452 accredited colleges and universities in California in the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard database, including 137 public and 315 private institutions.
What is the cheapest college in California?
Community colleges in California typically offer the lowest tuition — often under $5,000 per year for in-state students. Use the college finder above to find the most affordable options.
What is the largest university in California?
University of California Los Angeles is among the largest and most well-known universities in California. Search for it by name in the college finder above to view its full data profile.