The cheapest colleges in California allow students to get a college degree without breaking the bank. The cost of tuition for many universities and colleges may deter high school graduates from enrolling in higher ed institutions. However, a wide array of low-tuition colleges in California can create opportunities for students to study.
Graduate and undergraduate students also have access to some of the cheapest online colleges in California. Online academic programs at a private or public university make learning accessible to low-income students. Read below to see a list of the cheapest colleges in California.
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How Much Does College Cost in California?
The average annual cost of college in California spans from $8,020 to $33,483 without room and board, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Two-year public schools are at the low end of the spectrum, and private schools are at the high end.
Most Affordable Colleges in California: The Basics
| School | Location | Undergraduate Tuition | Graduate Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| American River College | Sacramento | $46/credit hour (in state), $395/credit hour (out of state) | N/A |
| Folsom Lake College | Folsom | $46/credit hour (in state), $395/credit hour (out of state) | N/A |
| Lincoln University | Oakland | $224/credit hour (in state), $457/credit hour (out of state) | $311/credit hour (in state), $579/credit hour (out of state) |
| Santa Clara University | Santa Clara | $1,580/credit hour | $1,121/credit hour |
| California State University, San Bernardino | San Bernardino | $1,665/credit hour (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state) | $2,082/credit hour (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state) |
| California State University, Fullerton | Fullteron | $1,665/credit hour (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state) | $2,082/credit hour (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state) |
| San Jose State University | San Jose | $1,665/credit hour (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state) | $2,082/credit hour (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state) |
| California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt | Arcata | $7,858/year (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state) | $9,294/year (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state) |
| San Francisco State University | San Francisco | $7,522/2 semesters | $8,956/2 semesters |
| San Diego State University | San Diego | $8,174/year (in state), $11,880/year (out of state) | $9,608/year (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state) |
Cheapest Universities in California: A Closer Look
The cheapest universities in California provide students with accredited, high-quality academic programs. Below is a list of the most affordable colleges in California with a closer look at their acceptance rates, graduation rates, and tuition.
American River College is one of the cheapest community colleges. This public community college is part of the California Community Colleges System. The school offers transfer and career development programs.
American River College Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $46/credit hour (in state), $395/credit hour (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: N/A
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 29%
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
American River College NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $1,288
- Books and Supplies: $1,124
- On-Campus Room and Board: $17,254
Popular American River College Programs
- Associate in Arts in Social Science. This 62-credit-hour degree program offers a variety of courses from child development to biology and earth science.
- Associate in Science in Business Administration. You can use this two-year degree program to pave your way to the California State University system.
- Associate in Arts in Entrepreneurship. If you want to develop basic business skills, you can enroll in this two-year degree program.
This public institution offers popular programs in liberal arts, general studies, humanities, business, management, and marketing. With a teacher-student ratio of 26-to-one, you can expect high-quality degree programs. This affordable college also has an open admission policy.
Folsom Lake College Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $46/credit (in state), $395/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: N/A
- Acceptance Rate: Open admissions
- Graduation Rate: 38%
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Folsom Lake College NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $1,288
- Books and Supplies: $1,124
- On-Campus Room and Board: $17,254
Popular Folsom Lake College Programs
- Associate of Arts in Arts and Humanities. You can use this degree program to acquire academic credits to transfer to the University of California or California State University.
- Associate of Arts in Accounting. This two-year degree program will give you a proper foundation to land a job or pursue a bachelor’s degree. You will specifically broaden your knowledge of the US Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
- Associate in Science in Business Administration. Students can look forward to exciting opportunities in business with this career program. They can transfer to four-year universities to complete a bachelor’s degree or begin a career.
Lincoln University, a private institution, offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in business administration, law, English, journalism, and advertising. The university offers a vibrant student life with many events, clubs, and organizations. The variety of programs can help anyone study their subject of choice with low cost of tuition.
Lincoln University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $224/credit (in state), $457/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $311/credit (in state), $579/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: Open admissions
- Graduation Rate: 73%
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Lincoln University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $11,420
- Books and Supplies: $850
- On-Campus Room and Board: $8,400
Popular Lincoln University Programs
- Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology. You can advance your knowledge in computer technology subjects through this degree program.
- Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts in Accounting. Boost your technical skills in accounting theory and best practices with this degree program.
- Master of Business Administration. This accelerated advanced degree program touches on human and financial assets for private and public corporations.
Founded in 1851, Santa Clara University adds a Christian-based education to undergraduate and graduate studies. To ensure high-quality education, the campus maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 11-to-one. There are many undergraduate degree programs for those who started with associate degrees and want to transfer credits.
Santa Clara University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $1,580/credit (in state)
- Graduate Tuition: $1,121/credit (in state)
- Acceptance Rate: 54%
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Santa Clara University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $55,860
- Books and Supplies: $1,125
- On-Campus Room and Board: $16,533
Popular Santa Clara University Programs
- Master of Business Administration. You will have access to multiple options for your Master’s Degree in Business Administration. You can choose the online or evening option if you are a working professional. There is also an executive and STEM MBA available.
- Master of Science in Marketing. This advanced online degree requires 36 units and can be completed within one year. There is a part-time or full-time enrollment option for all learners.
- Master of Science in Computer Science Engineering. This advanced degree program requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science Engineering from an accredited institution.
California State University, San Bernardino, founded in 1962, is a public institution offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Cal State San Bernardino is one of the best schools for undergraduate students in the state.
California State University, San Bernardino Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $1,665/credit hour (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $2,082/credit hour (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 57%
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
California State University, San Bernardino NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $7,213
- Books and Supplies: $1,145
- On-Campus Room and Board: $12,822
Popular California State University, San Bernardino Programs
- Master of Business Administration. There are three different MBA options for learners. You can choose to pursue the traditional, online executive, or executive MBA.
- Bachelor of Science in Information Systems and Technology. In this degree program, you can choose to specialize in business intelligence and analytics, cyber security, or national security.
- Bachelor of Arts in Administration. You will master accounting and administration, microeconomics, calculus, and organizational behavior in this four-year degree program.
California State University, Fullerton, also known as CSU Fullerton, is a public institution offering graduate and undergraduate degree programs in business, administration, arts, health, and engineering. Cal State Fullerton provides 82 bachelor’s, 65 master’s, and four doctoral programs.
California State University, Fullerton Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $1,665/semester (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $2,082/semester (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 59%
- Graduation Rate: 71%
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
California State University, Fullerton NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $6,976
- Books and Supplies: $1,203
- On-Campus Room and Board: $16,703
Popular California State University, Fullerton Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. This degree focuses on accounting, economics, finance, and marketing concepts and best practices.
- Master of Science in Business Administration. This is an advanced degree program for business analysts, consultants, and managers. It can pave the way to a higher salary or graduate studies in business administration.
- Master of Science in Marketing Analytics. This program has small class sizes and dedicated advisors to help you navigate coursework. This is for students with a marketing bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
San Jose State University is a public research university offering associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. You can pay your tuition fee upfront or rely on grants, loans, or scholarships. If you’re looking for an affordable university with a good financial aid package, this school is a good choice.
San Jose State University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $1,665/credit hour (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $2,082/credit hour (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 84%
- Graduation Rate: 69%
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
San Jose State University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $7,852
- Books and Supplies: $1,087
- On-Campus Room and Board: $17,360
Popular San Jose State University Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies. This is an excellent degree program for professionals who require flexibility in their studies. You can attend this program in person or online.
- Master of Science in Computer Engineering. To specialize in system design and verification, you should pursue this advanced degree. You can also specialize in network systems, embedded systems, secure systems, or data science.
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. This degree program is available in person and online. It offers the convenience learners need to balance work and studies.
Popularly known as Cal Poly Humboldt and formerly known as Humboldt State University, this college has many academic departments for prospective students. The public research institution offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs.
California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $7,858/year (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $9,294/year (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 48%
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $7,864
- Books and Supplies: $1,070
- On-Campus Room and Board: $12,540
Popular California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. You can use this four-year degree program to expand your knowledge of theories, concepts, and research on core aspects of psychology.
- Master of Science in Biology. This advanced degree program will take you two years to complete. Some students take advantage of the teaching associate positions the degree offers at the department.
- Master of Business Administration. This degree program focuses on essential concepts that will help you become an innovative and responsible leader.
San Francisco State University, a public college founded in 1899, offers 30,256 students a wide variety of graduate and undergraduate programs. This is a top-ranked institution in one of the biggest cities in the country.
San Francisco State University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $7,522/2 semesters
- Graduate Tuition: $8,956/2 semesters
- Acceptance Rate: 93%
- Graduation Rate: 54%
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
San Francisco State University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $7,304
- Books and Supplies: $1,076
- On-Campus Room and Board: $15,950
Popular San Francisco State University Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. This four-year degree offers accounting, entrepreneurship, finance, and information systems concentrations. You can also venture into international business, management, or marketing.
- Masters of Science in Psychology. This advanced degree program in psychology focuses on clinical school and industrial psychology.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Using this degree program, you can jumpstart your career as a computer scientist, software developer, or information security analyst.
Founded in 1897, San Diego State University is a public research institution that offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional degree programs. It is a top-ranked institution, ranking 148 in National Universities on US News & World Report.
San Diego State University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $8,174/year (in state), $11,880/year (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $9,608/year (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 38%
- Graduation Rate: 76%
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
San Diego State University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $6,084
- Books and Supplies: $1,091
- On-Campus Room and Board: $19,330
Popular San Diego State University Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. This Bachelor of Arts program teaches students about human behavior through hands-on learning experiences, internship opportunities, and research.
- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. This four-year degree will help you launch a career in state or local law enforcement. It focuses on a deep understanding and policies regarding genocide, racism, organized crime, and environmental destruction.
- Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration–Finance. This degree program advances your knowledge in wealth management, real estate development, financial management, or protection of assets.
Cheapest Online Colleges in California
| School | Online Tuition | Programs Available Online |
|---|---|---|
| Pacific Oaks College | $370 per credit hour | BA Early Childhood Education, MA Early Childhood Education, MA Education: Special Education, BS in Business Administration, MA Education: Special Education |
| San Jose State University | $1,665/credit hour (in state), add $396/credit hour (out of state) | MS in Criminology, Master of Library and Information Science, BS in Information Science and Data Analytics, Master of Archives and Records Administration |
| California State University-Fullerton | $425-$500/credit hour | BA in Business Administration, BA in Humanities & Social Sciences, BA in Sociology |
| Golden Gate University | $462/credit hour (subject to the degree selected) | MBA, MS in Accounting Data & Analytics, MS in Business Analytics, MS in Financial Analytics, MS in Information Technology Management |
| Fresno Pacific University | $1,218 per credit unit | BA in Business Administration, MA in Sports Administration, MA in Applied Behavior Analysis |
Cheapest Colleges in California by In-State Tuition
- American River College | $46/credit hour
- Folsom Lake College | $46/credit hour
- Lincoln University | $224/credit hour
- Santa Clara University | $1,580/credit hour
- California State University, San Bernardino | $1,665/credit hour
Cheapest Colleges in California by Out-of-State Tuition
- American River College | $395/credit
- Folsom Lake College | $395/credit hour
- Lincoln University | $457/credit hour
- California State University, Fullerton | $1,665/semester (add $396/credit hour)
- California State University, San Bernardino | $1,665/semester (add $396/credit hour)
Why Is College So Expensive?
College is so expensive because of the level of education they provide to learners. The higher education programs feature access to state-of-the-art facilities, counseling, and expert instructors. Below are some factors that inflate college tuition.
Books and Supplies
In addition to tuition fees, you should consider the cost of books and supplies. Often, students rely on loans or scholarships to cater for books and supplies. Even an excellent research university might not have books and supplies to provide.
Student Services
Campuses rely on student services to ensure overall student success. These services ensure that students stay on track with their studies. Other benefits include admissions, orientation, testing, career services, and financial aid.
Value
You can land high-paying job positions by holding a four-year or a two-year degree. These degree programs take you through essential practices to prepare you for the best entry-level job opportunities.
Best Universities by State
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How to Save Money in College
- Use the library. Instead of buying books, take advantage of library resources. Students can borrow and read the required textbooks on the premises.
- Learn how to cook. Instead of eating out, it’s better to save money by learning to cook. Students who choose to eat at home can attend free community cooking classes. Learn to budget by spending money on groceries.
- Start a side hustle. A steady income stream could come through a side hustle job that pays well. Many college students look for part-time opportunities to supplement the cost of college attendance.
- Live with roommates. Sharing accommodation greatly reduces the cost of housing. By splitting living expenses with friends, students can free up extra money.
- Live at home. Another great way to cut down on costs is by living at home. With this option, transportation costs are the only fee.
How to Apply for Financial Aid in California
- Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form. You will find this form on the official website of the university or college.
- Before submitting the form, ensure you input the correct information. Take note of the financial aid you are eligible for and the Data Release Number.
- Check the status of the application often.
- Review the financial aid you will receive and plan your finances accordingly to enroll in the desired program.
Scholarships for Students in California
| Scholarship Title | Provider | Amount | Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Association of University Women Re-Entry Scholarship | American Association of University Women | $2,000 | Must live in San Diego County and pursue higher education in the northern part of the county |
| Association of California Water Agencies Awards | Association of California Water Agencies | $3,500 | Must be a California resident attending the University of California or California State University |
| Banatao Family Filipino American Education Fund | Asian Pacific Fund | $20,000 | Must be Filipino residing in any California county |
| California Hispanic Education Endowment Fund | Hispanic Education Endowment Fund | $2,500 | Must be a permanent resident living in Orange County |
| California Law Enforcement Personnel Dependents Grant Program | California Student Aid Commission | $12,192 | Must be dependent or spouse of California peace officers, firefighters, or Department of Corrections and California Youth Authority |
| CSAC Cal Grant C | California Student Aid Commission | $1,094 | Must be a US citizen and pursue a degree from a qualifying California college. The degree must be occupational or technical |
| California Association of Winegrape Growers Foundation Scholarship | California Association of Winegrape Growers Foundation | $8,000 | Must be a high school graduate pursuing four or two-year degrees at the University of California, California State University, or accredited community college |
| ERC Eco Scholarship | Environmental Research Center | $1,000 | Must be enrolled in an accredited California college or university pursuing environment health sciences degree |
| Ford ReStart Program Scholarship | The Ford Family Foundation | 90% of total tuition cost | Must be a resident of Siskiyou County or Oregon |
| Frederick and Demi Seguritan Scholarship | Asian Pacific Fund | $5,000 | Must be a resident of Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara or Solano County |
How to Choose a Cheap College in California
To choose one of the cheapest colleges in California, there are a few things you must consider. Often, students feel they will never get the college experience they’ve always wanted, but the most affordable colleges in California make it possible to achieve.
Location
Most online degree programs cost less compared to in-person programs. However, if you prefer an in-person program, you should always attend an institution near you to qualify for in-state tuition.
Financial Aid Programs
Check if the school will offer you financial aid services. It will significantly reduce the tuition burden by acquiring scholarships or loans. A few financial aid options depend on academic achievement, but others are need-based.
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Cost of Attendance
In addition to tuition fees, consider the cost of books and supplies, accommodation, and transport. The net price should guide you in choosing the most affordable college or university.
Best Community Colleges by State
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Highest-Paying Jobs for College Graduates in California
| Job Title | Average Salary in California | Minimum Education |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Hardware Engineer | $169,970 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Software Developer | $146,770 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Information Security Analyst | $135,200 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Data Scientist | $133,110 | Master’s Degree |
| Database Architects | $130,310 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $119,460 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Software Quality Assurance Analyst | $115,420 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Computer Programmers | $114,740 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrator | $105,770 | Bachelor’s Degree |
| User Interface Designer | $94,060 | Bachelor’s Degree |
Best Jobs for College Grads in California: Explained
The best jobs for college grads in California feature rewarding salaries and incentives. Once you acquire your bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, you can look into applying to any of these job opportunities below.
- Average Salary: $128,170
- Average Salary in California: $169,970
- Overall Job Outlook: 2% from 2020 to 2030
Computer hardware engineers are responsible for researching, designing, developing, and testing computer systems and components. They examine the equipment and search for ways to make it more efficient.
- Average Salary: $110,140
- Average Salary in California: $146,770
- Overall Job Outlook: 22% from 2020 to 2030
Software developers design and develop computer programs. You will need a good understanding of programming languages and tools to excel in this job position. California is a great place to work as a software developer because the biggest companies in California are mostly tech companies, according to Statista.
- Average Salary: $102,600
- Average Salary in California: $135,200
- Overall Job Outlook: 33% from 2020 to 2030
An information security analyst is responsible for monitoring and protecting networks from potential threats. In this position, you will install software and document any security breaches.
- Average Salary: $131,490
- Average Salary in California: $133,110
- Overall Job Outlook: 22% from 2020 to 2030
As a data scientist, you will gather, analyze, and present data using different analytics to clients or shareholders. The role requires predictive modeling and machine learning skills.
- Average Salary: $98,860
- Average Salary in California: $130,310
- Overall Job Outlook: 8% from 2020 to 2030
A database architect is a professional responsible for creating databases for organizations. They often work with software designers, software developers, and design analysts.
- Average Salary: $99,270
- Average Salary in California: $119,460
- Overall Job Outlook: 7% from 2020 to 2030
Through computer systems analysts, organizations use computer technology effectively and efficiently. They research new technologies, analyze costs and benefits, and test systems.
- Average Salary: $110,140
- Average Salary in California: $115,420
- Overall Job Outlook: 22% from 2020 to 2030
Software quality assurance analysts test software products to establish quality and predict possible problems. They are often computer science or software engineering graduates.
- Average Salary: $93,000
- Average Salary in California: $114,740
- Overall Job Outlook: -10% decline from 2020 to 2030
You will develop, maintain and test computer programs as a computer programmer. This position requires you to work closely with technical staff and managers.
- Average Salary: $80,600
- Average Salary in California: $105,770
- Overall Job Outlook: 5% from 2020 to 2030
These professionals determine an organization’s computer needs and install appropriate network hardware and software to optimize performance. Network and computer systems administrators also make upgrades and repairs where needed.
- Average Salary: $77,200
- Average Salary in California: $94,060
- Overall Job Outlook: 13% from 2020 to 2030
A user interface designer ensures excellent interaction between a user and the final product. Typically, these professionals have a strong understanding of front end development.
Accredited Online Colleges by State
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Is a Cheap College in California Worth It?
Yes, a cheap college in California is worth it. California boasts solid public and private college systems in cities such as San Diego, San Jose, and San Francisco. Prospective students can also expect the two-year colleges to offer career opportunities at an affordable price.
Cheapest Colleges in California FAQ
No, college in California is not free, but there are free online colleges in California. These four-year colleges are often community-based and provide free tuition to students who need financial backing to afford higher education.
According to US News & World Report, the cheapest college in California for international students is California State University in Fresno. CSU Fresno’s total tuition cost is $28,181. The institution offers students from other countries an affordable degree option.
You can pay for college in California through several options. Undergraduates often apply for grants and scholarships, whereas graduate programs, especially doctoral degree programs, offer students teaching opportunities and research fellowships. Even if you’re a graduate student, you can still rely on student loans and FAFSA to cut down on costs.
Yes, a college in California is worth it. You can choose to attend a school at the University of California like UC Santa Cruz or UC Santa Barbara, a state school like Fresno State or Chico State, or a private college like Claremont McKenna College. These colleges in California will help you access your educational goals, high-paying jobs, and upward mobility.
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