Where we foster excellence in education that challenges students of every background to develop their intellect, character, and abilities; to assist students in achieving their educational and career goals; and to be responsive to the greater community.
Private and independent colleges and universities are not funded by public taxes. Some offer unique programs, majors, and degrees. Schools may be rooted in specific religious traditions or philosophies or focus on specialized areas such as the arts or technical fields. Many are smaller than public universities and may offer more personalized learning environments or concentrated areas of study.
Each institution sets its own admission requirements. Counselors can help you explore and understand the pathways to these colleges.
Some out-of-state colleges offer affordable degree completion programs that are designed for working adults, making a four-year degree more accessible for students with diverse needs and responsibilities.
Resources
The Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities (AICCU) is comprised of over 85 independent, nonprofit colleges and universities in California and is a great resource for students seeking a private education in California.
Visit California Private College is Possible to connect to various private college profiles.
Scholarships
Apply using the Common App
Many private colleges use the Common Application to receive student applications. However, application requirements may vary. Please visit your prospective college admissions website for more information on application procedures.
Out-of-State Colleges and Universities
Transfer requirements for out-of-state universities vary by institution, and each college determines how coursework and credits are evaluated. Some universities may accept the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), but policies differ and students should confirm requirements with the college they plan to attend. Counselors may support students in connecting to schools.
Completing an associate degree may also be beneficial, as some institutions consider it when evaluating general education coursework for transfer. Transfer credit decisions are made individually by each college.
Western Government Exchange
Out-of-state tuition can be expensive. The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) expands students’ options by making out-of-state colleges in the western United States more affordable. Through WUE, eligible students can receive a significant tuition discount to attend a participating university.
If you’re interested in the WUE, you can search for programs and universities online, and view the WUE tuition rate for that campus. You may also find a list of WUE schools.
WUE States and Territories