This guide ranks 14 colleges in California by graduate salary outcomes, acceptance rate, and net cost of attendance — using public US Department of Education College Scorecard and IPEDS data.

What is the hardest college to get into in California?

California Institute of Technology has the lowest acceptance rate among California colleges on this list at 3.1%. Reach for it only if your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars are well above the school's median.

Which California college has the highest graduate salary?

California Institute of Technology graduates earn the highest median 10-year salary among California colleges on this list, at $128,566. Major choice impacts earnings far more than school choice — pick based on intended career, not just school median.

Should I stay in California for college?

In-state public colleges in California typically charge significantly less tuition than out-of-state students pay, so staying in-state can cut costs dramatically. Private colleges in California charge the same regardless of state residency. Compare net cost (not sticker) for your family income to decide.

Data source: IPEDS, College Scorecard.

Top Colleges in California

FAQs about colleges in California

Plug your stats in. We'll tell you where you stand.