The Best Colleges in California for 2026
California is home to some of the most academically distinguished and student-centered colleges in the nation. Whether you’re looking for a large public research university, a close-knit liberal arts college, or a faith-based institution, California has a wide range of options that prioritize both academic excellence and meaningful student experiences.
At Colleges of Distinction, we’ve identified 2026’s best colleges in California by evaluating schools based on Engaged Teaching, Student Success, Community Engagement, and Career Development. This year’s list includes standout public institutions like UC Berkeley, San Diego State, and CSU Long Beach, as well as top private colleges such as Claremont McKenna, Loyola Marymount, and Pomona College.
Browse our full list of California Colleges of Distinction below to find a school that’s the right fit for your goals and values.
Azusa Pacific University
Azusa, CA ‧ Christian‧ 4-year
Azusa Pacific University is an evangelical Christian community of disciples and scholars who seek to advance the work of God through academic excellence in liberal arts and professional programs of higher education – both of which encourage students to develop a Christian perspective of truth and life.
Acceptance rate 79% • Net price $26,117 • SAT Range 994-1314 • Students submitting SAT scores 13%
Total Undergrad Population 2,977 • Setting Suburb • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 64% • Retention rate 84% • Student-to-faculty ratio 10:1
California Polytechnic State University
San Luis Obispo, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
Cal Poly’s Guiding Philosophy, “Learn by Doing,” pushes students to take responsibility over their individual academic journeys. Thanks to California Polytechnic State University’s rigorous, success-oriented academic environment, the University ensures that students are actively involved in unique educational experiences.
ALTERNATIVE BREAKS
Students may choose to participate in alternative breaks, which leads them through service and care within an area in need. Alternative breaks are a great way for students to assess their own privileges against those who are less fortunate. This can be an eye-opening experience that introduces students to the true power they have in effecting change.
Acceptance rate 30% • Net price $16,888
Total Undergrad Population 21,559 • Setting Suburb • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 85% • Retention rate 95% • Student-to-faculty ratio 18:1
California State University, Fullerton
Fullerton, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
As part of the world-class California State University system, Cal State Fullerton prepares its diverse student body for success in a global society. Titans actively engage in hands-on learning, research, clubs and organizations, and volunteer work that enriches the local community.
Cal State Fullerton may be the largest CSU campus with more than 34,000 undergraduate students, but its mission to provide high-impact immersive learning ensures personal, fulfilling experiences for every student. Located in Orange County, CSUF is near Los Angeles, Disneyland, Universal Studios, and the beautiful California coastline. Students thrive with the support of one-on-one academic advising, college career specialists, and student success initiatives.
Acceptance rate 87% • Net price $6,283
Total Undergrad Population 37,125 • Setting Suburb • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 69% • Retention rate 85% • Student-to-faculty ratio 22:1
California State University, Long Beach
Long Beach, CA ‧ Public‧ 4-year
California State University, Long Beach is dedicated to providing a high-quality education founded on the principles of superior teaching, research, and service for the people of California and the world. Motivated by the values of diversity, integrity, and service, CSU Long Beach strives to make its world-class education accessible and inclusive. The university looks to change lives by expanding educational opportunities, fostering creativity, and preparing future leaders.
CSU Long Beach is proud of the tight-knit community it has cultivated over the years. With a population of over 34,000—and even its own zip code!—the 323-acre campus beckons those who are ready to learn, explore, and succeed. CSU Long Beach boasts a beautiful campus with state-of-the-art research facilities, performing arts centers, and the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden. Students and members of the surrounding community are encouraged to experience all of the beauty and inspiration the campus has to offer.
Acceptance rate 47% • Net price $9,731
Total Undergrad Population 34,243 • Setting City • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 70% • Retention rate 85% • Student-to-faculty ratio 19:1
Claremont McKenna College
Claremont, CA ‧ Private ‧ 4-year
Claremont McKenna College is a private liberal arts college in Claremont, California. Situated 30 miles east of Los Angeles, students can enjoy and explore a residential campus with easy access to a large city. CMC is one of seven members of The Claremont Colleges.
Renowned for expertise in economics and government, Claremont McKenna features accomplished scholars who are committed teachers in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences. The school is distinguished by eleven world-class research institutes. Exceptionally high numbers of undergraduate students conduct research with professors and get to know them as colleagues.
Acceptance rate 11% • Net price $29,978 • SAT Range 1450-1560 • Students submitting SAT scores 29%
Total Undergrad Population 1,381 • Setting Suburb • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 95% • Retention rate 96% • Student-to-faculty ratio 8:1
Concordia University Irvine
Irvine, CA ‧ Private ‧ 4-year
“Grace Alone. Faith Alone.” Concordia University Irvine (CUI) thrives with a spirit of thoughtful insight and compassionate community. Its nationally recognized general education curriculum, “Enduring Questions & Ideas,” inspires its students to develop a global mindset that stretches far beyond its Southern Californian walls.
CUI’s Lutheran heritage sets a strong, supportive foundation for students to find and develop their passions as they work toward their undergraduate, graduate, or online bachelor’s degree. Students gain not only the knowledge and skills to succeed, but also the motivation and direction for their individual calling.
Acceptance rate 60% • Net price $29,413
Total Undergrad Population 1,465 • Setting City • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 63% • Retention rate 76% • Student-to-faculty ratio 13:1
Fresno Pacific University
Fresno, CA ‧ Private ‧ 4-year
Fresno Pacific University (FPU) is a Christian university committed to academic excellence, spiritual formation, and service to others. Located in the heart of California’s Central Valley, FPU provides a welcoming and inclusive environment where students are equipped to lead lives of purpose, wisdom, and reconciliation in a diverse and changing world.
At FPU, learning is designed to be active and purpose-driven. Students step into internships, participate in community-based research, and contribute to service projects that align with their academic goals. In programs like social work, business, and education, students regularly interact with local organizations, gaining practical experience while addressing real needs.
No matter their major, students are invited to grow through experience, cultivating both confidence and a strong sense of purpose.
Acceptance rate 58% • Net price $15,668
Total Undergrad Population 1,616 • Setting City • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 56% • Retention rate 81% • Student-to-faculty ratio 8:1
Harvey Mudd College
Claremont, CA ‧ Private ‧ 4-year
Harvey Mudd College is a liberal arts college in Claremont, California specializing in engineering, science, and mathematics. Harvey Mudd boasts an 8-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio which encourages more personalized learning for students in their fields to understand the impact of their work on the world.
Acceptance rate 13% • Net price $42,720 • SAT Range 1480-1560 • Students submitting SAT scores 50%
Total Undergrad Population 949 • Setting Suburb • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 94% • Retention rate 97% • Student-to-faculty ratio 8:1
Loyola Marymount University
Los Angeles, CA ‧ Catholic ‧ 4-year
Loyola Marymount University is rooted in its Roman Catholic tradition—a relationship that is directly connected to the school’s personal and academic goals and success. LMU promotes both the intellectual and personal growth of each student. The University’s commitment to Catholicism drives a socially conscious mindset and students are taught to become contributing members of the global community.
SERVICE AT LMU
Every month, LMU takes on a new service initiative with a local non-profit agency. The service project is communicated to the entire LMU campus community. Details of the project, as well as volunteer needs are shared with the student body. Projects change every month, allowing LMU to touch several different parts of the community.
El Espejo: El Espejo is Spanish for mirror and serves as the motto for a service initiative. Here “mirror” is used to emphasize reflection—where volunteers work to find a common connection between them and those they are helping. El Espejo connects LMU students with at-risk middle school students in the community. The mission of this initiative is to educate and mentor students on the importance and potential of intellectual and personal growth.
Acceptance rate 40% • Net price $54,471
Total Undergrad Population 7,336 • Setting City • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 80% • Retention rate 88% • Student-to-faculty ratio 11:1
Pomona College
Claremont, CA ‧ Private‧ 4-year
Pomona College, located in Claremont, California, is one of the nation’s premier liberal arts institutions, known for its rigorous academics, tight-knit community, and commitment to student success. As a member of the Claremont Colleges consortium, Pomona students benefit from the resources of a larger university while enjoying the personalized attention of a small college.
With an average class size of just 13 students, Pomona fosters a collaborative and engaging learning environment where students can build strong relationships with both peers and professors. This intimate setting encourages active participation, in-depth discussion, and meaningful mentorship—hallmarks of a Pomona education.
Beyond the classroom, Pomona offers a vibrant campus life and a strong emphasis on global engagement, research opportunities, and interdisciplinary learning. Students are challenged to think critically, explore new perspectives, and become thoughtful leaders in their communities and beyond.
Acceptance rate 7% • Net price $17,423 • SAT Range 1480-1560 • Students submitting SAT scores 29%
Total Undergrad Population 1,664 • Setting Suburb • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 93% • Retention rate 96% • Student-to-faculty ratio 7:1
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
San Diego State University (SDSU) stands as a vibrant hub of academic excellence nestled in the heart of sunny Southern California. Boasting a rich history dating back to 1897, SDSU has evolved into a dynamic institution renowned for its innovative research, diverse student body, and commitment to community engagement. With its stunning campus providing a backdrop of palm trees and Spanish-style architecture, SDSU offers a welcoming environment where students are inspired to explore their passions, expand their horizons, and shape their futures. Whether pursuing rigorous academics, participating in cutting-edge research, or immersing oneself in the vibrant cultural scene, SDSU offers an unparalleled collegiate experience that prepares students to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Acceptance rate 34% • Net price $19,500
Total Undergrad Population 34,050 • Setting City • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 78% • Retention rate 90% • Student-to-faculty ratio 22:1
San José State University
San José, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
Succeed in your personal and professional life with an education from San José State University. SJSU is a Public University in San José, California.
As one of the most transformative universities in the nation, San José State is ready for big change. As part of Transformation 2030, SJSU’s strategic plan, the campus community is dedicated to realizing the university’s potential as a nationally prominent urban public university. San José State provides a comprehensive university education, granting bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in 250 areas of study. With approximately 36,000 students campus wide and nearly 4,300 employees, SJSU is an essential partner in the economic, cultural and social development of Silicon Valley and California.
Acceptance rate 80% • Net price $13,833
Total Undergrad Population 27,111 • Setting City • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 65% • Retention rate 86% • Student-to-faculty ratio 18:1
Santa Clara University
Santa Clara, CA ‧ Catholic ‧ 4-year
Santa Clara University, a comprehensive Jesuit, Catholic university, offers its students rigorous undergraduate curricula in arts and sciences, business, and engineering as well as engineering Ph.D.s and master’s and law degrees. Distinguished nationally by one of the highest graduation rates among all U.S. master’s universities, SCU strives to educate citizens and leaders who will build a more just, humane, and sustainable world.
SCU, founded in 1851 by the Society of Jesus, was established on the site of Mission Santa Clara de Asis, the eighth of 21 California missions. Today, the University is committed to promoting academic excellence, enriching its educational experience through the Jesuit philosophy of educating the whole person, fostering an engaged community, and realizing opportunities available through its location in the San Francisco Bay Area and Silicon Valley.
Acceptance rate 44% • Net price $49,651 • SAT Range 1340-1500 • Students submitting SAT scores 25%
Total Undergrad Population 6,249 • Setting City: Midsize • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 88% • Retention rate 94% • Student-to-faculty ratio 10:1
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
The University of California, Berkeley, located in the San Francisco Bay Area, is a leading public research university renowned for its academic excellence and activism. Offering over 350 degree programs, Berkeley attracts students passionate about innovation and societal impact. The campus boasts a diverse student body, a vibrant arts scene, and numerous research opportunities. Its proximity to Silicon Valley provides students with unparalleled access to internships and career prospects.
Acceptance rate 12% • Net price $16,997
Total Undergrad Population 33,078 • Setting City: Midsize • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 93% • Retention rate 97% • Student-to-faculty ratio 18:1
University of California, Davis
Davis, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
University of California, Davis is a public university in northern California. UC Davis has over 30,000 students studying 107 academic majors. Over 50% of undergraduate Aggies participate in meaningful research.
Whether you’re interested in laboratories or libraries, at UC Davis you can get hands-on research experience. And you’ll be working with top-notch faculty mentors and some of the best graduate students in the world. Undergraduates are encouraged to dive into research at UC Davis. You can do it through internships on campus, at the UC Davis Medical Center, with local industry or under the guidance of a professor.
Acceptance rate 42% • Net price $17,315 • SAT Range 0-0 • Students submitting SAT scores %
Total Undergrad Population 31,797 • Setting Suburb • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 85% • Retention rate 93% • Student-to-faculty ratio 21:1
University of California, Irvine
Irvine, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
University of California, Irvine is home to 29,000 undergraduate students. With over 85 bachelor’s degrees offered UCI students have many academic options. UC Irvine is a public university in Orange County, California. In 1965, the University of California, Irvine was founded with a mission to catalyze the community and enhance lives through rigorous academics, cutting-edge research, and dedicated public service.
Acceptance rate 26% • Net price $14,647
Total Undergrad Population 29,503 • Setting City • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 86% • Retention rate 94% • Student-to-faculty ratio 18:1
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
Transform your passions into driving innovation at the University of California, San Diego. UCSD is a diverse public research university in California.
UC San Diego is transforming California and a diverse global society by educating, by generating and disseminating knowledge and creative works, and by engaging in public service.
Acceptance rate 25% • Net price $13,293
Total Undergrad Population 33,792 • Setting City • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 88% • Retention rate 94% • Student-to-faculty ratio 19:1
University of California, Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
UC Santa Barbara is a noted institution located on the edge of the Pacific, a perfect natural environment for research. The serene atmosphere is conducive not only to academic success, but also many outdoor and recreational activities.
UCDC
The UCDC program is a partnership between schools in California and Washington D.C. Though this program, students from UCSB and other California institutions are able to work, study, and intern in the nation’s capital. UCDC is open to junior and senior students looking to expand their educational and hands-on experience. Some elect to do an internship, which requires 32 hours of work a week, while others choose to complete a research seminar and take elective courses for credit.
UCEAP
The University of California Education Abroad Program (UCEAP) provides UC students a range of global education and internship opportunities. There are 393 programs available in 43 countries, providing students with plenty of options to choose from. Some of the most popular destinations include: Australia, France, Hong Kong, Mexico, Morocco, Russia, Singapore, and Spain.
Acceptance rate 28% • Net price $15,283
Total Undergrad Population 23,232 • Setting Suburb • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 85% • Retention rate 92% • Student-to-faculty ratio 17:1
University of Redlands
Redlands, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
A private liberal arts and sciences institution in the heart of Southern California, University of Redlands is committed to educating the hearts and minds of its students through an emphasis on personalized education, service, and experiential learning. In addition to more than 50 programs of study in the arts and sciences, University of Redlands also offers impressive pre-professional opportunities in pre-health, pre-law, and education as well as more than 100 study abroad opportunities. Home to the second-oldest School of Music in California and the alternative Johnston Center for Integrative Studies, the 112-year-old university prepares students for success and lifelong learning.
University of Redlands’ main residential campus sits on 160 green acres centrally located near the beaches, mountains, and desert. Part of a diverse and active student body from California and around the world, Redlands students are engaged in the world around them, thriving as participants in community service, DIII varsity athletics, and a wide array of student organizations.
Acceptance rate 81% • Net price $28,054 • SAT Range 1078-1323 • Students submitting SAT scores 18%
Total Undergrad Population 2,100 • Setting City: Small • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 71% • Retention rate 81% • Student-to-faculty ratio 11:1
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA ‧ Private ‧ 4-year
The University of Southern California, situated in Los Angeles, is a premier private research university known for its strong programs in film, business, and engineering. USC offers a dynamic campus life with over 1,000 student organizations, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community. Students benefit from the university’s extensive alumni network and its location in a global hub for entertainment, technology, and entrepreneurship.
Acceptance rate 10% • Net price $41,496 • SAT Range 1440-1550 • Students submitting SAT scores 32%
Total Undergrad Population 21,023 • Setting City • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 92% • Retention rate 97% • Student-to-faculty ratio 9:1
University of the Pacific
Stockton, CA ‧ Private‧ 4-year
A Campus Steeped in Tradition
Founded in 1851, University of the Pacific holds the distinction of being the first chartered university in California. The 175-acre campus is stunning in its beauty, with traditional brick and ivy-covered buildings accompanied by more than 100 species of regional and international trees. This gorgeous campus has caught the attention of Hollywood, having been used as a set for such films as Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark and Flubber.
Inside and Outside the Classroom
Small class sizes and personal attention are two enormous benefits of a Pacific education. The student-centered institution strives to educate the leaders of tomorrow through intensive academic study, experiential learning, and service to the community. A vibrant campus life enriches and supports each Pacific student’s college experience. Students participate in over 150 student clubs and organizations, Greek life, intramural sport clubs, and community outreach opportunities. They also attend chart-topping concerts and fun university events.
Student Success
Offering a variety of useful resources, University of the Pacific is committed to helping students succeed. The Four-Year Guarantee facilitates each student’s goal to earn their Bachelor’s Degree within four years. Competitive accelerated programs go even further to prepare very dedicated and talented freshmen for their professional degrees. Alumni leave Pacific equipped to make their mark and practice their professions at the highest level.
Acceptance rate 95% • Net price $30,975 • SAT Range 1160-1420 • Students submitting SAT scores 27%
Total Undergrad Population 3,297 • Setting City • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 66% • Retention rate 89% • Student-to-faculty ratio 14:1
Frequently Asked Questions
Colleges of Distinction has recognized a diverse group of outstanding institutions in California. These include public universities like UC Berkeley, UC Irvine, and San José State, as well as private colleges such as Harvey Mudd, Santa Clara University, and USC.
Yes, especially for in-state students attending public universities in the CSU or UC system. Schools like CSU Fullerton and UC Davis offer excellent academics at significantly lower tuition rates for California residents. Many private schools also offer generous need- and merit-based aid packages.
The University of California (UC) system emphasizes research and includes campuses like UC San Diego and UC Santa Barbara. The California State University (CSU) system offers a more hands-on, career-focused education through campuses like CSU Long Beach and San Diego State University.
When narrowing down your college choices, consider factors like in-state tuition eligibility, availability of your intended major, and campus culture. Many California schools also offer strong support for first-generation students, undergraduate research, and career services. Use our application checklist to stay on track.
🌟 What makes these schools a “College of Distinction”?
All schools on this list were selected for their commitment to Engaged Teaching, Student Success, Community Engagement, and Career Preparation. These pillars go beyond test scores and rankings to highlight schools where students truly thrive. Learn more about our methodology here.
About Our Methodology: Every year, the Colleges of Distinction team evaluates colleges and universities across the U.S. using a four-point framework focused on student engagement, success outcomes, campus community, and career readiness. Our selections are guided by decades of experience in higher education evaluation and a commitment to helping students find schools where they will thrive—not just attend.
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