Overview
Founded in 1929, Santa Monica College has built a reputation as one of the premier community colleges in California, particularly renowned for its exceptional transfer success rates to top-tier universities. SMC consistently ranks among the top community colleges nationally for transferring students to UCLA, USC, and other prestigious institutions, earning it a distinctive reputation among students seeking a cost-effective pathway to elite four-year universities. The college also offers strong career and technical education programs, along with a well-regarded international student program.
At a Glance
| Type | Community College |
| Location | Santa Monica, California |
| Founded | 1929 |
| Total students | 26,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 24:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 100% |
| Graduation rate | 42% |
| Average starting salary | $40,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $1,380 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $9,660 |
| Room & board | $15,000 |
| Average financial aid | $5,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 65% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | N/A |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Film Studies
- Business
- Design Technology
- Kinesiology
- International Business
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.