Cheapest Colleges in California

1. California State University, Los Angeles

California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA) founded in 1947 is a public university located in Los Angeles, California.

CSULA offers many undergraduate and graduate programs through its various colleges, including the College of Arts and Letters, College of Business and Economics, College of Engineering, Computer Science, and Technology, College of Health and Human Services, College of Natural and Social Sciences, and the Charter College of Education.

The university offers over 130 bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, as well as doctoral programs in areas such as education, nursing, and engineering. The average annual net price for attending California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA) is $5,801.

2. California State University, Fresno

California State University, Fresno (Fresno State) was established in 1911. It is a public university located in Fresno, California. Fresno State offers over 60 bachelor’s degrees, nearly 50 master’s degrees, and a handful of doctoral programs in various fields.

These programs are offered through its various colleges, including the College of Arts and Humanities, Craig School of Business, Kremen School of Education and Human Development, Lyles College of Engineering, College of Health and Human Services, College of Science and Mathematics, and College of Social Sciences.

It is one of the cheapest colleges in California with a net tuition fee of $7,507.

3. California State University, Dominguez Hills

California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) is a public university located in Carson, California. It was founded in 1960.  Today, this university offers over 45 bachelor’s degrees, nearly 25 master’s degrees, and a selection of certificate programs.

CSUDH is committed to research and scholarship across disciplines, with a focus on applied research that addresses real-world challenges. It offers excellent programs through the College of Arts and Humanities, College of Business Administration and Public Policy, College of Education, College of Health, Human Services, and Nursing, and College of Natural and Behavioral Sciences.

When it comes to affordable education, CSUDH is at the helm. The net tuition for students is $5,068.

4. San Diego State University–Imperial Valley

San Diego State University–Imperial Valley (SDSU-IV) established in 1959 is a branch campus of San Diego State University (SDSU), it is located in the Imperial Valley region of California.

SDSU-IV offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including business administration, education, public administration, and social work. The campus collaborates with local community colleges and organizations to provide accessible educational opportunities for students in the Imperial Valley. The average cost of tuition at this institution is $5,976 making it one of the most affordable colleges in California.

5. California Maritime Academy

The California Maritime Academy (Cal Maritime) is a specialized campus of the California State University system, focusing on maritime education and training. Cal Maritime was established in 1929 as the California Nautical School, making it one of the oldest maritime academies in the United States.

This college offers undergraduate degrees in fields such as marine transportation, marine engineering technology, global studies and maritime affairs, mechanical engineering, and business administration. Students benefit from extensive hands-on training aboard the university’s training ship, the T.S. Golden Bear, and in specialized facilities such as engineering labs and simulators.

The tuition at this college is very affordable, students pay about $6,536 each year.

How Much Does It Cost To Attend College in California?

The cost of attending to college in California is not static, it is based on factors such as whether the school is public or private, or if you are from California or not.

For public schools in California where you’re from (in-state), tuition and fees usually cost between $7,000 and $15,000 per year. Living on campus can add another $10,000 to $15,000, and books and supplies might cost around $1,500 to $2,500 more. So, the total cost per year could be between $18,500 and $32,500.

If you are from a state other than California (out-of-state), the tuition and fees are usually higher, maybe $20,000 to $40,000 per year. Room and board are similar to in-state students, and books and supplies cost about the same. So, the total cost could be between $31,500 and $57,500.

Private universities in California are more expensive. Tuition and fees could be $30,000 to $60,000 per year or even more. Room and board might be another $10,000 to $20,000, and books and supplies could be $1,500 to $2,500. So, attending a private university might cost between $45,000 and $85,000 per year.

Community colleges are usually cheaper. Tuition and fees might be $1,000 to $1,500 per year for California residents. Since most students live at home, they don’t have room and board costs. Books and supplies could be $1,000 to $1,500 more. So, going to a community college might cost about $2,000 to $3,000 per year.

Financial aid like grants, scholarships, and loans can help pay for college. It is important to apply for them to lower the cost. Also, living off-campus, having a part-time job, or going to college part-time can help save money.

Scholarships And Financial Aid For California Students

• Cal Grants: These need-based grants are awarded by the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) to eligible California residents attending eligible colleges in California. There are several types of Cal Grants available, including Cal Grant A, Cal Grant B, and Cal Grant C.
• California Dream Act: This program allows eligible undocumented students who meet certain criteria to apply for state financial aid, including Cal Grants and other scholarships.
• California College Promise Grant (formerly known as BOG Fee Waiver): This program waives enrollment fees for eligible California residents attending community colleges.

Application Process For Financial Aids/Scholarships in California

Here is how you can apply for scholarships and financial aid in California:-

• FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is used to apply for federal financial aid, including grants, work-study, and loans. California residents should also complete the FAFSA to be considered for Cal Grants and other state aid.
• CADAA: The California Dream Act Application (CADAA) is for eligible undocumented students to apply for state financial aid in California.

Students should research and apply for scholarships and financial aid early to maximize their opportunities for assistance. Each scholarship or aid program has its own eligibility criteria, deadlines, and application process, so it is important to stay organized and submit applications on time. Students can also contact their school’s financial aid office for assistance and guidance throughout the process.