4 Year College or University
Imagine a place where you get to learn about things you actually choose—like video games, animals, medicine, engineering, art, business, or even space 🚀. That’s what a 4-year college or university is all about!
What is a 4-Year College or University?
4-year colleges and universities are schools you can attend after high school to continue your education. As the name suggests, this path usually takes about 4–5 years to complete. Some students may finish sooner if they take advanced classes like AP or IB in high school.
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At a 4-year college, you choose a major, which is the main subject you want to focus on. Most students earn a bachelor’s degree, and some programs even allow students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree together.
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One of the exciting parts of college is having more choice. While there are some required classes, students also get to choose many of their own classes, including general education courses and classes connected to their interests.
Degrees
Colleges offer different Bachelor's & graduate/professional degrees (Master's, Ph. D., law, & medical degrees).
Tuition
Costs vary by campus ($6,000-$60,000 a year), and whether you live in the dorms. Click here to find out how you can afford college!
Class Size
Beginner courses can have 50-400 students. Other advanced or major classes could be smaller and more discussion-focused.
A college "major" is your field of study- like Engineering, Business, Art.​
Applying for 4-Year Institutions in California:
University of California (UC)
​You can apply to all 9 UC campuses with one application (UC Apply). The application usually opens October 1 and closes December 1, for admission for the following academic year.
The application fee is $80 per campus, but you could qualify for a fee waiver (covering the cost of four campus application fees).
California State University (CSU)
You can apply to all 22 CSU campuses with one application (CSU Apply). The application usually opens October 1 and closes December 1, for admission for the following academic year.
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The application fee is $70 per campus, but you could qualify for a fee waiver (covering the cost of four campus application fees).
Private Institutions
The Common App represents more than 1,100 diverse institutions across all 50 U.S. states and 18 countries. Applications typically open on August 1 and close on January 1, for admission for the following academic year.
Application fees vary per institution, often $30-$75+, but many offer waivers or don't charge at all.
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It is okay to not know yet! Start exploring colleges and majors, and remember to ask questions to your school counselor and staff!