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10 Popular Universities in California for Indian Students

Updated on 17 January, 2024

If you are looking for high-quality education abroad, considering universities in California, USA, can be a good bet. California is an educational hub, with Stanford University securing the 5th spot on the QS World University Rankings 2024. California's universities' excellent pedagogy and multicultural environment further add to their appeal. Learn about the top universities in California and the reasons to study there. 

Why Choose Universities in California for International Students

Here are some of the biggest reasons to choose a California university for higher education. 

  • High number of international students- California boasts a large population of international students. Per the International Educational Exchange (IIE) Open Doors Report 2023, the state had 1,38,393 international students. This highlights a stimulating academic environment for students. 
  • A flourishing economy- California is one of the leading states from an economic perspective. The state added a whopping 96,700 new jobs in January 2023 alone, contributing 18.7% of the total job increases for the month across the country. The state also surpassed other regions in the nation in year-over-year job growth, with 559,500 jobs opening up for aspirants, indicating growth of 3.5% in 2023. 
  • Excellent opportunities in STEM fields- Studying at the best universities in California opens up varied opportunities in STEM fields. Several companies offering apprenticeships and internship programs are associated with universities in California. It is the technology hub of the US and is home to the famous Silicon Valley, the hub of leading companies such as Google, Apple, Meta, and Intel. 
  • Tremendous scope for networking & skill development: You can also find several networking opportunities, boot camps, and workshops at universities in California. Several universities in the state are also known for their pioneering research in tackling global challenges, including climate change and sustainability, along with their technological expertise. Thus allowing students to gain cutting-edge knowledge and skills.  
  • Creative employment opportunities- California can be an excellent choice for those seeking to make a mark in creative fields. There are several opportunities across entertainment and movies, publishing, fashion, and the visual and performing arts. The creative economy in the state offers employment to more than 1.8 million professionals, contributing close to 7.6% of the overall workforce in California. 
  • Diverse student life- California offers diverse and vibrant student experiences, home to several beaches and national parks throughout a coastline of 840 miles. The lovely landscape is conducive to hiking at Yosemite National Park, surfing in Santa Monica, and snowboarding in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Los Angeles in California is the hub of Hollywood with its Walk of Fame and numerous theaters. The state is also a sports haven and is home to several iconic sporting teams, such as the LA Lakers and Clippers, the LA Rams & Chargers, and more. 

List of Top 10 Universities in California

Here are the top universities in California for your consideration per the U.S. News & World Report's Best Colleges in California 2024 list. 

University 

U.S. News & World Report 

 

Average Annual Fees  Popular Programs
Stanford University 3 $62,484 Social Sciences, Engineering, Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Mathematics and Statistics, Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Physical Sciences 
California Institute of Technology 7 $63,255 Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Physical Sciences, Engineering/Engineering-Related Technologies, Mathematics and Statistics, Biological and Biomedical Sciences
University of California, Berkeley  15 $48,465 Engineering, Social Sciences, Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Biological and Biomedical Sciences
University of California, Los Angeles 15 $46,326 Psychology, Social Sciences, Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics, Engineering 
University of California, Davis 28 $46,043 Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Psychology, Social Sciences, Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Engineering
University of California, San Diego 28 $48,630 Psychology, Biology, Cognitive Science, Economics, Computer Science
University of Southern California 28 $68,237 Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Social Sciences, Visual and Performing Arts, Communication, Engineering, Journalism, and Related Programs
University of California, Irvine 33 $47,759 Engineering, Social Sciences, Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Psychology
University of California, Santa Barbara 35 $45,658 Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Social Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics, Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Psychology
Santa Clara University 60 $59,241 Finance, Mathematics and Computer Science, Psychology, Economics

Source: U.S. News & World Report 2024 Best Colleges in California 

To sum up, numerous leading universities in California are immensely popular among international students. They offer cutting-edge education and infrastructure to pupils while enabling global exposure and access to a flourishing job market in the state. Unlock your dream opportunities by studying in California. 

Disclaimer: All course fees mentioned above are subject to change

FAQs

Can I work while studying in California?

Yes, it is possible to work while studying in California. The Federal Work-Study Program allows undergraduate and graduate students with financial needs to work for up to 20 hours during academic sessions. 

Which is the highest-ranked university in California?

The highest-ranked university in California is Stanford University, which secured the 5th position on the QS World University Rankings 2024 list. 

Which countries contribute the highest number of international students to California?

California is one of the top educational destinations in the US. As per reports, the highest number of international students in the state come from China and India, cumulatively making up 56% of the total figure for 2022-23. They are followed by South Korea, Taiwan, and Japan. 

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Urvi Agrawal

Urvi has 3 years of experience as a content writer and marketer. Over years, she has established herself as a study-abroad expert and is adept at crafting compelling and engaging content for students. Self-driven and passionate professional, she likes writing poetry and has authored a poetry book ‘Thoughts of a Wallflower’.

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