Exploring the California Community Colleges

About the Colleges and Educational Programs

The California Community College system consists of over 100 colleges, with a large number of additional campus centers and classrooms throughout the state. The colleges are spread over a wide range of geography, from mountains to coasts, and rural regions to big cities. Each college offers a diverse array of educational programs, with specializations that reflect the unique character of the local region.

A broad range of student goals can be met by the California Community Colleges, from personal growth to professional training, from associate degree to university transfer. There are many student services to help you choose your path and stay on it, including academic counseling, financial aid, tutoring, child care, and much more. Most of the colleges also offer alternative modes of taking classes, such as online courses, "distance education" by radio and video, off-campus classes in facilities like high schools and shopping malls, and even study abroad in another country! Costs are very low compared to other higher-education options, and admission is open to all who can benefit.

Find the College for You - Search and Compare

CCCApply offers several tools to help you find the educational program and college that is right for you.

  • Comparing Colleges - Compare college characteristics using CaliforniaColleges.edu, the California Colleges explorer.

  • Key Facts - Obtain a brief overview of participating campuses.

  • Campus Tours - Take a virtual tour of the colleges using CaliforniaColleges.edu, the California Colleges explorer.

  • Find the Best College for You - View campuses that match your specific requirements using CaliforniaColleges.edu, the California Colleges explorer.

  • CCCApply Search - Search the CCCApply website or college websites.

  • ASSIST - See how courses you've taken will transfer to other colleges and universities in California.

  • California Virtual Campus - Find online courses offered by California colleges.

  • CalAbroad - Check out opportunities to study abroad through the California Community Colleges.

  • FAQs - Find answers to Frequently Asked Questions on many topics.

Other websites with California Community College information: