The state of California is the third largest state in the United States, a land that promises to bring many development opportunities. California is known as "The Golden State," which not only stands out for its prestigious schools but also attracts with its Hollywood glamour, stunning beaches, and pleasant climate. Let's explore the climate, natural landscapes, academic programs, and job opportunities in California with IDP.\

1. Where is California

California is the third-largest state in the United States, characterized by its diversity in both geography and climate. With an area of nearly 424,000 km², this state is divided into 3 main regions, including North, Central, and Southern California. California's vibrant cities include Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco,... With a population of more than 39 million people, California is the most populous state in the country.

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California is the third-largest state in the United States, with more than 39 million people

What is special here is the rare combination of beautiful beaches, majestic mountains, deserts, and rich agricultural lands. It is also home to the 14,494-foot Whitney Peak, the Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park 282 feet below sea level, and some of America's most magnificent ancient trees, creating a unique and beautiful natural picture.

2. Climate in the State of California

California's climate is characterized by diversity and pleasantness, with four distinct seasons spread across the state. Thanks to its large area, each region of the state of California possesses its own climatic characteristics, in which areas near the sea tend to have cooler and more pleasant weather. Moreover, this climate will help Vietnamese international students adapt more easily because it is not too cold.

California is famous for its mild climate, which is considered a paradise compared to the cold Northeast of the United States. In winter, the average daytime temperature is about 14 degrees Celsius and can drop to 1 degree Celsius at night. July is the hottest time of the year, with temperatures ranging from 18 degrees Celsius to 34 degrees Celsius, providing a warm but not too harsh feeling, and creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities.

3. Top Universities in California

California is an ideal destination for those who dream of studying in the United States, with more than 750 educational institutions, attracting hundreds of thousands of international students, especially from Vietnam. The state boasts three major public education systems: the University of California (UC) System, the Southern California University System (CSU), and California Community Colleges (CCC).

Some typical Universities in Cali:

  • University of California, Berkeley (UCB):

    Founded in 1868, UCB is not only the first school of the UC system but also a symbol of the quality of public education in the United States. UCB is consistently at the top of the academics and research rankings.

  • University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA):

    Ranked No. 1 Public University in the U.S., UCLA is the top choice for global students. The university has more than 90 countries represented in the student community.

  • University of Southern California (USC):

    Located in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, USC is home to outstanding talent, including 9 Nobel Prize winners and many famous figures in the fields of science, art and politics.

  • University of California, Irvine (UCI):

    As one of the leading public research schools, UCI has a strong reputation in the UC system. With more than 37,000 students, the university is consistently ranked highly for its teaching quality and research excellence.

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The University of Southern California (USC) is located in the vibrant city of Los Angeles

See more: Community colleges in California - USA

IDP partners with many prestigious universities and colleges, giving students the opportunity to receive valuable scholarships from top partners. Here are some attractive scholarships from partner schools:

Field

Location

Scholarship

Application Deadline

California State University

San Bernardino

Up to $6,000 USD/year

07/04/2025 (Fall 2025)

California State University

Chico

- International Scholar Award: $2,000 USD.

- International Student Excellence (UG): tuition fee waiver of up to $12,600 USD.

- Wildcat Scholarships: Flexible value.

- 15/02/2025 (Wildcat Scholarships).

- 01/04/2025 (other programs)

Golden West College

Huntington Beach, CA

$400 USD

07/02/2025

Contact IDP for more detailed information about scholarships to study in the U.S. and eligibility requirements.

4. Cost of Studying in California

Tuition fees to study abroad in California are suitable for many international students. With a system of 750 schools, students can choose to study at public or private schools, with tuition fees:

  • In-state public: from $3,071 USD per year

  • Out-of-state public: about $13,536 USD

  • Private schools: about $27,056 USD per year.

Besides tuition, the cost of living in California also varies depending on where you live.

  • On campus, the average cost is $19,154 USD

  • Off-campus will be higher, about $23,998 USD per year.

5. Places to Visit in California

California is not only famous for its top-notch education, but it also possesses beautiful places to visit, which captivate people's hearts. Here are the places to visit in the state of California:

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California has a rare mix of beaches, mountains, deserts, and farmland

  • Yosemite National Park, located in the Sierra Nevada range, where you'll see magnificent granite cliffs, legendary Giant Sequoia forests, breathtaking waterfalls, and rich flora and fauna.

  • Death Valley has a different mysterious beauty, associated with historical stories of expeditions that could not cross this harsh desert. This place is also impressed by the strange phenomenon when the rocks move on their own on the sand.

  • Santa Barbara is known as "The American Riviera," this coastal city possesses fresh air and poetic scenery, located not far from Los Angeles.

  • The Napa Valley is home to famous wines such as Cabernet, Sauvignon, and Chardonnay. Not only visiting the wineries, you can also experience an exciting hot air balloon flight, enjoying the serene scenery from above.

6. Opportunities to work in the state of California

California is not only famous for its stunning scenery, but it is also a dream destination for those looking for global career opportunities. Here, you can easily find a suitable internship or job, gradually asserting yourself in the competitive labor market. It is impossible not to mention these areas:

  • Technology: Silicon Valley – the world's leading technology hub – is home to prestigious corporations such as Apple, Google, and Facebook, offering countless opportunities to work and intern in the field of technology.

  • The cradle of the entertainment industry: With its famous Hollywood, it attracts art and creative students from all over the world.

  • Prospects in the agricultural industry: With the position of the world's leading producer of food and agricultural products.

See more: Top US states: Which state should you choose to study in the US?

With the above information, you must have an overview of California. California is an ideal destination for those who dream of studying in the U.S. and developing a global career in fields such as technology, entertainment, agriculture, and many others. With top-notch education, great scenery, and open career opportunities, California is a promised land for international students.

If you are still wondering which state to choose to study in the US, contact the IDP 19006955 hotline for more detailed advice. IDP is always ready to support you from choosing the right school and major to preparing your study abroad application to hunting for scholarships to study in the United States and registering for the IELTS test.