Finding the Right Campus for You

Each year, over two million students enroll in a California college or university, at more than 250 campuses, both independent and public. California offers a wide range of options from community colleges to world-famous research institutions to small liberal arts and specialty colleges and students can find the perfect fit. The key is to consider your academic interest, what environment you learn best in, your career goals, and the ways in which you like to spend your free time. Start by meeting with a guidance counselor at your high school. Explore AICCU member colleges and universities, and be sure to follow the links to college websites and social media pages. Many schools provide online campus tours. You should pay particular attention to the admissions pages—these typically have a wealth of information about how to gain admission, degree programs, financial aid, and student life. For an inside perspective on the college experience, look for blogs by admissions officers and current students. You should plan to attend a few college fairs, ask friends and family members about their college experiences. Finally, make a list of what you are looking for in a school. Once you have narrowed down your choices, visit!

The independent school advantage

Choosing an independent college or university in California provides access to a rich diversity of students, residential campus life, and alumni networks that can provide lifelong benefits after you graduate.

Explore the breadth of offerings at AICCU’s over 80 member colleges and universities, and do not let the sticker price of college deter you from the school of your choice. California’s independent, nonprofit colleges and universities offer scholarships and grants from their own institutional resources, access to federal and secondary grant and loan programs, work-study opportunities, a variety of tuition payment plans, and other ways to help students pay for college. For more information, see Affording College. Also, check out the links below and the information links on other student pages.

Other Helpful Links:

American Student Assistance
Campus Tours
The College Board
College Week Live