Does California offer lower tuition rates for residents?

Answer 1

Yes, all states offer lower tuition rates for residents; California used to offer free tuition to in-state residents (at least at some schools), but this no longer seems to be the case.

California State at Bakersfield, for example, requires an annual tuition of $5,314 for state residents, and $16,474 for out-of-state students.

California State Los Angeles charges $4,846 per year for in- state residents; $16,006 for out-of-state residents.

University of California, Berkley charges $12,462 per year, in-state; and $35,341 per year, out-of-state

UCLA charges $10,781 per year, in-state; and $33,660 per year, out-of-state

Generally, the California State Universities offer lower tuition than the University of California schools, but the state subsidy is excellent, overall, compared to many places.

Note this answer discusses tuition only. If you live on campus, you will incur a separate charge for dorm, meal tickets and other miscellaneous costs. There is no in-state price break for living expenses; everyone pays the same rate.

University of California, Santa Cruz

In-state tuition and fees.........................$11,505

Out-of-State tuition and fees.....................34,384

Room and Board......................................14,172

Books and supplies....................................1,404

Estimated personal expenses......................1,524

Estimated cost of transportation.....................870