Occidental College
The Vibe Check
Occidental College feels like an intimate, sun-drenched liberal arts oasis nestled in the heart of Los Angeles. The campus vibe is intellectually curious yet unpretentious, with students engaging in deep discussions under palm trees and Spanish Colonial architecture. It’s a community that values social justice and interdisciplinary thinking.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Occidental is renowned for its rigorous liberal arts curriculum, emphasizing writing and critical inquiry through small, discussion-based classes. Research opportunities are abundant and accessible, even for underclassmen, with strong programs in biology, political science, and urban environmental studies. The faculty are dedicated mentors who prioritize teaching alongside their own research.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Los Angeles
Students enjoy a quintessential LA experience, from hiking in the nearby San Gabriel Mountains to exploring the vibrant food and art scenes of Highland Park and Downtown LA. On campus, social life revolves around student-led events, outdoor movie nights on the quad, and a strong presence of cultural and activist organizations.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($75,951):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Campus safety is a priority with Oxy’s Department of Safety providing 24/7 patrols, a mobile safety app, and well-lit pathways. The surrounding Eagle Rock neighborhood is considered one of LA’s safer areas, though standard urban precautions are always advised.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Small, discussion-based classes with accessible professors
- ✓ Prime location in Los Angeles for internships and cultural access
- ✓ Strong emphasis on social justice and community engagement
- ✓ Beautiful, self-contained campus in a safe neighborhood
Cons
- ✗ High sticker price despite generous aid
- ✗ Campus is not as large as some universities, which may limit certain social scenes
- ✗ Los Angeles can be expensive and requires planning for transportation
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Occidental is known for its rigorous liberal arts education, commitment to social justice, and its unique location in Los Angeles. It is also notable for being the college where former President Barack Obama began his undergraduate studies.
Yes, Occidental is a selective liberal arts college with an acceptance rate of approximately 39.89%. The middle 50% SAT range for admitted students is typically between 1360 and 1500, and successful applicants generally have strong GPAs and demonstrate intellectual curiosity and community involvement.
Campus life is vibrant and close-knit, with a strong sense of community. Students are engaged in over 100 clubs, Greek life (though it's not dominant), and numerous events celebrating diversity and the arts. The residential campus fosters collaboration, and the proximity to LA offers endless off-campus exploration.
For many students, yes. The combination of a high-quality education, strong alumni network, and prime LA location leads to solid outcomes, with median 10-year earnings around $75,951. The college meets 100% of demonstrated need, and the high graduation rate (84%) suggests students are well-supported to succeed and graduate on time.
Similar Universities
Top Employers
Next Steps & Tools
Make the best decision with our free planning tools.
Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1887
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 2,029
- In-State Tuition $63,446
- Zip Code 90041
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a high sticker price but a robust financial aid program, Occidental’s net price averages around $39,329, making it more accessible for many families. The strong 10-year median earnings of $75,951 and high graduation rate suggest a solid return on investment for graduates entering competitive fields.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.