Other notable private institutions across the state include the in Los Angeles, which is one of the most expensive but also most prestigious, and Loyola Marymount University (LMU) , frequently ranked among the nation's top colleges. Navigating the Cost and Accessibility
Recent legislative changes are also reshaping this landscape. For example, a new state law (AB 1780) now and donor preferences at private colleges to ensure a more merit-based "level playing field". Top Private Colleges in California (2025-2026) private colleges in california
Many low-income students pick private colleges despite the cost Other notable private institutions across the state include
A unique chapter in California's private college story is the Claremont Consortium, a cluster of high-ranking small colleges in Claremont, CA. This group includes: and Loyola Marymount University (LMU)
: Highly selective with an 11% acceptance rate.
: Renowned for its social justice focus and A-grade niche ranking.