Where are the least expensive 4-year colleges in California?

I'm a Cali kid and tuition price is a big factor for me. Can someone point me to some of the least expensive 4-year colleges in my home state? I'd also love any additional tips on how to make college more affordable in general.

In California, the most affordable colleges for in-state students generally fall within the California State University (CSU) and University of California (UC) systems. Look into CSU Bakersfield, CSU Dominguez Hills, or CSU Stanislaus, as these tend to have relatively low tuition and fees. Similarly, UC Merced is generally one of the more affordable UC campuses.

However, tuition is only one part of the cost of college - you'll also need to consider room and board, books, transportation, and personal expenses.

To make your education more affordable overall, focus on financial aid opportunities. Fill out the FAFSA to see if you qualify for any federal or state grants. Some institutions also require the CSS Profile application for granting institutional aid.

Also, look outside of institutional aid. There are numerous scholarships available through various organizations and companies. Some are based on academic merit, others on financial need, and still others might be based on your interests, extracurricular activities, cultural background, or intended major.

Lastly, remember there's also the option of attending a community college first and then transferring to a four-year university. This route can often save a lot of money, and California has an excellent community college system.

Notably, remember that the 'sticker price' of a college doesn't reflect the actual cost for many students. Always use the net price calculator of the school to get a more accurate estimate of what you'll pay. These calculators take into account your family's financial situation to estimate your net cost after financial aid.

The most important part is to be proactive and explore all available resources - the less you have to rely on loans, the more affordable your education will be.