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Study in Los Angeles: Your Gateway to Academic Excellence

Updated on 17 April, 2024

Kanika Pruthi

Kanika Pruthi

Sr. Content Writer & Study Abroad Expert

Study in Los Angeles: Your Gateway to Academic Excellence

Serving a vast and culturally mixed population, Los Angeles boasts a varied and enormous educational system. It is home to several prestigious universities and offers numerous educational programs for the professional development of students. 

Students can also get a degree from numerous specialized schools and community colleges. Moreover, the Forbes Best Midsize Employer’s List ranked Los Angeles education as #30 for 2024 within the education industry nationwide.

Why Study in Los Angeles - 6 Top Reasons

Here are the top reasons to study in Los Angeles. These reasons will help you decide whether or not Los Angeles is the right option.

  • As many as 230 universities and colleges in LA.
  • LA ranks 271st in global student safety.
  • LA is a creative hotspot and tech hub.
  • It is one of the largest economies in the world, offering endless internship opportunities.
  • Ethnic diversity.
  • LA is ranked #51 in terms of the cost of living for students.

Best Universities to Study in Los Angeles

Listed below are the top five universities to study in Los Angeles:

Name of the university

QS World Rankings 2024

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

#29

University of Southern California

#116

Loyola Marymount University

#131-140

Mount Saint Mary's University, Los Angeles

#301-350

California State University - Los Angeles

#1401+

Best Courses to Study in Los Angeles

Los Angeles offers many degrees and course programs to students. This includes Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees. Below are the top 10 for your reference:

Course name

University Name

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

Cal State LA

Associate in Science - Mathematics

Los Angeles City College

Music Production

The Los Angeles Film School

Law - African and American Studies

UCLA

Aerospace Engineering, BS

UCLA

Full-time MBA

UCLA

Character Animation - Bachelors

The Los Angeles Film School

Computer Information Systems, B.S.

Cal State LA

MS in Bioengineering

UCLA

Massage Therapy

Los Angeles College of Aesthetics

Cost of Studying in Los Angeles

Los Angeles has various universities and colleges offering different courses and specializations. The cost of studying for an international student will vary based on the university and program they opt for. 

An undergraduate degree can cost between $34,200 and $69,904, a graduate degree between $31,949 and $47,706, and a doctoral degree between $18,900 and $31,949.

Cost of Living in Los Angeles

Here is a basic estimate of the cost of living in Los Angeles:

Meal (inexpensive restaurant)

$25

Grocery

$123.35

Transportation

$1.75

Utilities

$194.44

Mobile phone

$73.19

Internet

$75.64

Rent (1 bedroom)

$2480

Total

$2973.37

Top Scholarships for Students to Study in Los Angeles

Scholarship Name

Details

Pathway Scholarship - The Los Angeles Film School

$40,000 to students enrolled in bachelor’s degrees and $20,000 for associated degrees.

CSU Trustees’ Award for Outstanding Achievement

$18,000 to the receiver of the highest score by the CSU Foundation Trust.

Aaron Waters Scholarship

Varies for Bachelor of Science in Geology

Ron Levant Scholarship

Up to six $1,000 scholarships each semester for Psychology Majors

Merit Scholarships - CalArts

For BFA International students - $10,000 per year based on merit.

Student Life in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a perfect place for students to opt for a higher education course. It is ranked #=27 in QS Best Student Cities 2024. Besides spending time in prestigious universities, students can also explore the various attractions and enjoy the diverse culinary choices. LA offers everything from street food options to fine-dining restaurants.

There are numerous places to visit, such as the famous Walk of Fame. Students can use public transport to get around. They will also have the option of getting a student card and using it wherever possible.

Career Prospects for Students in Los Angeles

LA is home to creativity, and there are several job opportunities that you can apply for after completing your studies. Here are some popular ones for your reference.

Job Title

Average Salary (per annum)

Web Developer

$96,506

Orthopedic Surgeons

$2,72,513

Freelance Proofreaders

$62,422

Administrative Assistant

$47,000

Administrative Manager

$85,994

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FAQs

How do I apply for a student visa to study in Los Angeles?

The US offers three types of student visas: F, J, and M. If you want to get admitted to a recognized university or college in LA, you must apply for a Visa F. You must be approved for the course by the university before applying. Forms I-20 will be provided, and they must be used to obtain a visa.

Can I work and study in Los Angeles?

LA allows students at least 16 years old and enrolled in an accredited college in Los Angeles to work and study together. You can only work for a maximum of 30 hours in a week.

Which course is best for studying in Los Angeles?

Some popular courses at Los Angeles universities are Business Administration, Mathematics, Music, Character Administration, Law, etc.

What support services are available for international students in universities in Los Angeles?

International students get ample support from universities in Los Angeles, such as visa support services, multicultural programs, language advancement programs, and student leadership roles.

What cultural experiences and attractions can I explore outside of my studies in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is a culturally rich city that offers numerous experiences and attractions. You can visit museums, nightclubs, and sports stadiums where the 2028 Olympics will happen. Students can enjoy the Angeles National Forest and spend time in nature or go hiking, biking, boating, running, or skiing in the 1000-square-mile forest.

Did you find this article helpful?

Kanika Pruthi

Sr. Content Writer & Study Abroad Expert

Kanika has 5+ years of experience as a writer and content developer. She has written for a wide range of industry verticals, including hospitality, restaurants, non-profits, finance, IT, HR, technology, payroll, and education. She has worked as a creator for a few leading companies and has also helped brands grow through her creative writing.

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