In 2025, the average tuition and fees at 110 four-year California colleges is $35,050, reflecting a -1.34% increase compared to the previous year.Among the 110 institutions analyzed, tuition rose at 84 colleges, while tuition decreased at only 4 colleges.
Career Networks Institute ranks as the most expensive California colleges, with tuition and fees reaching $143,276. Known for its prestigious academic programs and strong reputation, Career Networks Institute remains a top choice for students seeking a premium education experience.
Close behind are Laurus College at$83,400 and Glendale Career College at$76,557 both consistently recognized among the California 4-Years Colleges with the Highest Tuition & Fees, offering high-quality academic programs and resources.
Among these top-tier California 4-Years Colleges with the Highest Tuition & Fees, the average acceptance rate is 23.73% and the average SAT score is 1,485, reflecting a competitive admissions environment and strong academic performance.
| School Name | Undergraduate Tuition & Fees | Graduate Tuition & Fees | Acceptance Rate | Total Population | SAT Score | Graduation Rate | Students to Faculty Ratio | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 3 | Career Networks Institute Santa Ana, CAPrivate, 4-year | $143,276 $67,896 | - | - | 1,133 | - | 89.00% | 30 to 1 |
| 2 1 | Laurus College San Luis Obispo, CAPrivate, 4-year | $83,400 - | - | - | 1,116 | - | 43.00% | 23 to 1 |
| 3 1 | Glendale Career College Glendale, CAPrivate, 4-year | $76,557 $200 | - | - | 896 | - | 63.00% | 21 to 1 |
| 3 1 | North-West College-San Diego San Diego, CAPrivate, 4-year | $76,557 $200 | - | - | 636 | - | - | 27 to 1 |
| 5 1 | University of Southern California Los Angeles, CAPrivate, 4-year | $71,647 $3,410 | $71,515 $3,387 | 9.81% | 46,566 | 1,500 | 92.00% | 9 to 1 |
| 6 1 | California Career College Canoga Park, CAPrivate, 4-year | $71,000 $1,000 | - | - | 190 | - | 100.00% | 7 to 1 |
| 7 - | Pepperdine University Malibu, CAPrivate, 4-year | $69,918 $3,176 | $44,056 $2,036 | 62.86% | 8,976 | 1,370 | 83.00% | 12 to 1 |
| 8 - | Harvey Mudd College Claremont, CAPrivate, 4-year | $68,613 $2,358 | - | 12.66% | 951 | 1,540 | 92.00% | 8 to 1 |
| 9 - | Claremont McKenna College Claremont, CAPrivate, 4-year | $67,980 $3,830 | $72,294 $3,769 | 9.59% | 1,393 | 1,530 | 91.00% | 8 to 1 |
| 10 | American Film Institute Conservatory Los Angeles, CAPrivate, 4-year | $66,469 | $70,487 | - | 379 | - | - | - |
| Average | $79,542 | $64,588 | 23.73% | 6,224 | 1,485 | 81.63% | 16 to 1 |