When researching private/independent and out of state universities, every campus may offer a variety of majors, degrees and it’s important to meet or talk with a representative from their university to find out more. You can begin searching for private/independent and out-of-state universities on the College Board website.

Additionally, the Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities (AICCU) is comprised of 86 independent, nonprofit colleges and universities in California. Together, these institutions make up the Independent California Colleges and Universities sector (ICCU).

• If interested in learning more about financial assistance for tuition check out the the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE), America’s largest regional interstate tuition savings program.
• For out-of-state universities, one option is to establish residency (requirements vary by state) before attending the university. Connect with a Columbia College academic counselorto further discuss.
• Many private/independent and out-of-state universities include, on their websites, cost calculators to approximate your aid and costs. Here is one example from the University of the Pacific.

Many private/independent and out-of-state universities use the Common Application

• What is the Common Application?
  
  The Common Application (Common App) is a non-profit college access organization that helps students apply to college every year. Common App’s free college application tool is designed to make applying to college faster and easier.
  
  With Common App you only need to use one system to apply to multiple colleges and universities. There are two main parts you fill out: a set of common questions and each college’s own specific questions. The best part is you only have to fill out the common questions one time! This application can be used to explore and apply to nearly 900 diverse institutions of higher education in all 50 states and in 20 countries. Learn more about Common App with this resource (hyperlinked to external webpage)
• What are some California universities that utilize the Common application?
  
  Some CA universities that utilize the Common Application include: Fresno Pacific, LMU, Pepperdine, Santa Clara, Stanford and USC.
• How do I prepare to complete the Common application process:
  
  This Transfer Application Guide for the Common App is a non-profit college access organization that helps students apply to college every year. Common App’s free college application tool is designed to make applying to college faster and easier.
  
  Gather your materials for the application. Learn about what information will be helpful to collect before jumping in to the application.
• How do I complete the Common Application?
  
  Common Application Tutorial YouTube Videos created by SBCC. These videos are courtesy of Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) and break the application down into 10 short videos. It's a great overview if you haven't completed/reviewed the Common Application before. These videos include some SBCC references, but the content is very applicable to Columbia College students.
• What steps do I need to complete after I submit the Common Application?
  
  Once your application is submitted, you will monitor the status and follow-up on any necessary actions.
  
  Submitting and monitoring your Common App for Transfer. Check out the Common App checklist of helpful steps to take after your application has been submitted and resources to help your transfer journey.