California’s independent colleges and universities are an excellent choice for many students. The most important criteria for selecting a college or university is how well it fits with your personality, values, and goals. Because every nonprofit, independent college and university has a unique character, there will be at least one that fits your needs. Unlike the University of California or the California State University systems, each California nonprofit, independent college and university has its own Governing Board. This independence allows for a diverse set of college opportunities in California.

There are 86 independent, nonprofit colleges and universities that belong to the AICCU (Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities). To see the colleges and universities available and their locations in California, visit the AICCU website

For assistance in planning a transfer program to an independent institution or an out-of-state college, students should schedule an appointment with a counselor in the Counseling Department.