| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Occidental College — often called "Oxy" — is a highly respected liberal arts college located in Los Angeles, California, USA. Known for its intimate academic environment, strong social justice focus, and access to big-city opportunities, Occidental blends the best of both worlds: a tight-knit college community within one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Full Name: Occidental College
Type: Private, liberal arts college
Location: Los Angeles, California
Founded: 1887
Campus Size: ~120 acres in the Eagle Rock neighborhood of LA
Undergraduate Students: Around 1,750
Graduate Programs: Primarily undergraduate, but offers a few special graduate and post-baccalaureate options
Mascot: The Tiger
Motto: "Occidens Proximus Orienti" (The West is Nearest to the East)
Interdisciplinary Liberal Arts Curriculum: Students can explore diverse subjects before choosing a major.
Strong Focus on Social Justice & Civic Engagement
Undergraduate Research Opportunities: Students can work closely with faculty on original research.
Global Education: Robust study abroad programs and international perspectives.
Prime Location: Offers unique access to internships, networking, and cultural events in Los Angeles.
Politics and International Relations
Economics
Biology
Media Arts & Culture
Psychology
Urban & Environmental Policy
Diplomacy and World Affairs
Art and Art History
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
Average Class Size: 18–20 students
Emphasis on writing, critical thinking, and cross-cultural understanding
Occidental is known for its diverse student body and commitment to equity and inclusion. Roughly 45–50% of students identify as students of color, and the college offers numerous identity-based resources and support programs.
Students live on-campus in residence halls, theme houses, or apartments.
Over 100 student organizations, including cultural groups, student government, activism, and arts.
NCAA Division III Athletics
Arts, music, and film are integral to campus life — not surprising for a college in L.A.!
Tuition (approx.): $65,000 per year (excluding room & board)
Financial Aid: Need-based and merit scholarships available; Oxy is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need
Barack Obama (attended for two years before transferring to Columbia)
Jack Kemp – Former NFL quarterback & U.S. politician
Ben Affleck – Actor, director, producer (briefly attended)
Numerous scholars, artists, entrepreneurs, and social change leaders
Occidental College offers a rigorous liberal arts education in a diverse, socially conscious, and urban setting. It's perfect for students who want the academic intimacy of a small college with the opportunities of a big city.
Occidental offers more than 40 majors and minors, as well as pre-professional tracks and opportunities for self-designed majors.
Biology
Economics
Psychology
Politics
Diplomacy and World Affairs
Media Arts & Culture
Urban & Environmental Policy
Cognitive Science
Computer Science
Sociology
Art History and Visual Arts
Chemistry
Philosophy
Occidental encourages cross-disciplinary learning. Some standout programs include:
Critical Theory & Social Justice
Global Public Health
Environmental Science and Policy
Black Studies
Latin American & Latino/a Studies
East Asian Studies
Religious Studies
Diplomacy and World Affairs (DWA): One of Oxy’s signature programs, focusing on international relations, global development, and human rights.
Study abroad opportunities in over 40 countries.
United Nations Program: Oxy is one of the few colleges with an official relationship with the UN, allowing students to intern with UN missions in New York.
Occidental offers strong programs in:
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Mathematics
Computer Science
Biochemistry
Cognitive Science With hands-on lab research opportunities and faculty mentorship, even as an undergrad.
While Oxy doesn’t offer graduate-level degrees (except a few post-bacc programs), it supports students on pre-professional pathways such as:
Pre-Med / Health Professions
Pre-Law
Pre-Business / MBA Prep
Engineering (3-2 dual-degree programs) with Caltech, Columbia, and others
Students can create an interdisciplinary major based on their academic interests, with faculty approval. This is ideal for highly motivated students with niche goals.
Most majors also offer minors, allowing students to combine areas of interest — for example, majoring in Biology and minoring in Media Arts & Culture.
Program Name (Major) |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Biology |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
Economics |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
Media Arts & Culture |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
Politics |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
Diplomacy and World Affairs (DWA) |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
Urban & Environmental Policy |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
Biochemistry |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
Art History and Visual Arts |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
Philosophy |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
Critical Theory & Social Justice |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
Cognitive Science |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
Physics |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
History |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
Religious Studies |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
Environmental Science |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
|
English |
4 years |
~$65,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) (through a partnership) |
~1 year (full-time) or 2 years (part-time) |
(depends on partnership institution) |
|
Post-Baccalaureate Program in Pre-Health |
1 year |
~$39,000–$42,000 |
International students make up about 8–10% of the student body.
Students come from more than 45 countries.
Oxy values global perspectives and actively fosters cross-cultural understanding through academics, campus life, and global programs.
International students can choose from over 40 majors, including:
Diplomacy & World Affairs
Economics
Computer Science
Biology
Media Arts & Culture
Urban & Environmental Policy
… and many more.
Occidental offers a liberal arts curriculum, encouraging students to explore multiple disciplines before declaring a major.
The Office of International Programs (OIP) and International Student Advisors provide:
Visa and immigration guidance (F-1 student visa)
Orientation programs
Academic and cultural adjustment support
Help with Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
Cultural events, peer mentorship, and workshops
Tuition: Around $65,000 USD per year
Room & Board: ~$17,000–$19,000 per year
Financial Aid:
Occidental offers need-based financial aid to international students.
International students are eligible to apply for merit-based scholarships as well.
Oxy is one of the few U.S. liberal arts colleges that offers need-based aid to international students, making it more accessible.
Students live on-campus in residence halls or themed housing (like sustainability or language houses).
Over 100 student organizations, including cultural and international clubs.
Beautiful campus in the Eagle Rock neighborhood of Los Angeles — close to Hollywood, downtown LA, and the beach!
International students have access to the Hameetman Career Center, which offers:
Internship and job search support
Resume workshops
Grad school application help
Oxy’s location in LA gives access to internships in media, business, tech, NGOs, and international organizations.
OPT/CPT is supported for eligible students.
Small class sizes and close faculty relationships
Strong global focus and social justice values
Safe, diverse, and culturally rich location (Los Angeles!)
Opportunity to study abroad or intern at the United Nations through Oxy’s unique UN program
Inclusive, welcoming campus culture
Occidental accepts applications through:
Common Application (preferred)
Coalition Application
No preference is given between platforms.
Application Type |
Deadline |
|---|---|
|
Early Decision I |
November 15 |
|
Early Decision II |
January 10 |
|
Regular Decision |
January 10 |
|
Transfer Admission |
April 1 |
Early Decision is binding; Regular Decision is non-binding.
Completed Application (Common or Coalition App)
Official High School Transcripts
School Report and Counselor Recommendation
1 Teacher Recommendation (can submit up to 2)
Mid-Year Report (for Regular Decision applicants)
$70 Application Fee (or waiver)
Required as part of the Common App.
Should reflect your voice, story, and interest in Oxy’s values.
Test-Optional Policy: SAT/ACT scores are not required.
If submitted, scores will be considered as part of a holistic review.
Oxy does not require SAT Subject Tests.
English Language Proficiency (if English is not your first language)
TOEFL: Recommended minimum score of 100 iBT
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0
Duolingo: Accepted as well (minimum ~120)
Certification of Finances (for student visa processing)
Translated transcripts (if not in English)
Portfolio: For students applying in areas like art, music, or media
Interview: Optional, but recommended for international students; can be scheduled virtually or through platforms like InitialView
Domestic Students: Submit FAFSA + CSS Profile
International Students: Submit CSS Profile only
Oxy is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need
Early Decision applicants are notified in mid-December
Regular Decision applicants are notified in late March
If admitted, international students will receive a Form I-20 to apply for an F-1 student visa
Oxy’s international student office assists with this process
Occidental has multiple intake options for first-year and transfer students:
Application Type |
Intake Period |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
Early Decision I |
Fall Semester |
November 15 |
|
Early Decision II |
Fall Semester |
January 10 |
|
Regular Decision |
Fall Semester |
January 10 |
|
Transfer Admission |
Fall Semester |
April 1 |
Note: All students, including international applicants, begin in the Fall semester. There is no spring intake for new undergraduates.
Completion of secondary/high school education
A strong high school academic record with challenging coursework (e.g., AP, IB, A-Levels, or honors courses)
Competitive GPA (Oxy doesn’t publish a minimum, but successful applicants typically have strong academic profiles)
Common or Coalition Application
High school transcripts
Counselor and teacher recommendations
Personal essay
Optional: SAT/ACT scores (Oxy is test-optional)
In addition to the standard application materials, international applicants must also submit:
Required if your native language is not English
Accepted tests:
TOEFL iBT: Recommended minimum score of 100
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 120 (accepted)
Exemption may be given if you studied in English for the last 3–4 years
International students must submit a Certification of Finances to prove ability to pay tuition and living expenses
Oxy offers need-based financial aid to international students through the CSS Profile
Ranking Organization |
Ranking / Rating |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not ranked (QS primarily ranks large research universities) |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
#39 – National Liberal Arts Colleges (USA) |
|
Niche Rankings |
A Overall Grade – Ranked highly for diversity, professors, and location |
|
Forbes (Top Colleges List) |
Listed among Top Liberal Arts Colleges in the U.S. |
|
Princeton Review |
Included in Best 389 Colleges – praised for student engagement and global awareness |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
All first-year applicants (auto considered) |
Up to $30,000 per year |
Based on academic excellence, leadership, and extracurricular achievements |
|
Need-Based Financial Aid |
U.S. & international students (via CSS Profile) |
(up to full need met) |
Oxy meets 100% of demonstrated financial need |
|
International Student Scholarships |
International applicants |
N/A |
Awarded based on financial need and merit; requires CSS Profile |
|
Occidental College Grants |
Admitted students with demonstrated need |
N/A |
Part of the need-based aid package |
|
Federal & State Aid (FAFSA) |
U.S. citizens & eligible non-citizens |
N/A |
Includes Pell Grants, SEOG, and state-specific programs |
|
Outside/Private Scholarships |
All students |
N/A |
Students may apply external awards (e.g., Fulbright, Gates, etc.) |
Facility Type |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Eagle Rock neighborhood, Los Angeles, California |
|
Campus Size |
~120 acres with residential, academic, and recreational facilities |
|
Housing Type |
On-campus housing required for first- and second-year students |
|
Residence Halls |
Traditional dorms, themed housing (e.g., sustainability, language houses) |
|
Room Options |
Singles, doubles, suites, apartments (upperclassmen) |
|
Room & Board Cost |
Approx. $17,000–$19,000 per year (includes meal plan) |
|
Meal Plans |
Required for residents; multiple plans available with dietary accommodations |
|
Facilities Available |
Laundry, Wi-Fi, study lounges, kitchens, fitness center, student lounges |
|
Housing Support |
Roommate matching, Residential Assistants (RAs), and 24/7 campus security |
Most students live on campus, especially in their first two years, which fosters strong social bonds and community engagement. The residential halls are more than just places to sleep—they’re hubs for friendship, intellectual discussion, and themed communities (like sustainability or language immersion housing). You'll often find students gathering for movie nights, late-night study sessions, or spontaneous debates in the dorm lounges.
Life at Oxy is academically rigorous but balanced with active student involvement outside the classroom. Students lead and participate in over 100 student-run organizations, including:
Cultural and identity-based clubs
Performing arts groups (music, theater, dance)
Student government (ASOC)
Academic clubs and honor societies
Activism and social justice organizations
Oxy students are passionate, thoughtful, and community-oriented — it's common to see students advocating for climate action, equity, or voter engagement right on campus.
Occidental is known for its commitment to diversity, with nearly half of the student body identifying as students of color and many coming from international backgrounds. There are dedicated campus centers like:
The Intercultural Community Center (ICC)
Office of Religious and Spiritual Life
The Queer Student Alliance
Project S.A.F.E. (Sexual Assault Free Environment)
These centers provide safe spaces, resources, and programs that support inclusion and belonging.
Oxy is located in Eagle Rock, a historic and artsy neighborhood in northeast Los Angeles. Students can easily access the city's world-class cultural, artistic, and entertainment scenes. Whether it's interning in downtown LA, hiking in Griffith Park, hitting the beach on weekends, or exploring food trucks and art shows, LA is part of the Oxy experience.
Occidental is an NCAA Division III school with a variety of athletic programs, including:
Soccer
Track & Field
Basketball
Swimming & Diving
Tennis
Cross Country
For non-athletes, there are also fitness classes, club sports, and outdoor adventure trips through the Outdoor Club, which organizes camping, surfing, and hiking excursions.
Oxy has its own unique campus culture and traditions like:
Dance Production (a massive, student-run performance every spring)
SpringFest and FallFest (music and food festivals)
Feast and Fiction (a Harry Potter-themed dinner in the dining hall)
Senior Week and Commencement activities
These events create a sense of fun and shared experience across the student body.
Student life also includes a strong focus on the future. The Hameetman Career Center helps students land internships, jobs, and grad school admissions. With Occidental's LA location, students intern at places like:
The Getty Museum
Warner Bros.
The United Nations (via Oxy’s UN program)
Local government and nonprofits
94% of graduates are employed, in graduate school, or in service programs (like Fulbright or Peace Corps) within 6–12 months of graduation.
Top industries where Oxy graduates work include:
Business & Consulting
Media, Arts, & Entertainment
Public Policy & Government
Technology & Data Science
Healthcare & Pre-Med
Nonprofits & Education
The HCC at Oxy provides personalized, ongoing career support through:
Career coaching & advising
Resume, cover letter, and interview prep
Graduate school advising
Internship and job search help
Alumni networking events
Handshake portal (for job and internship listings)
Occidental’s location in Los Angeles offers students access to real-world experience in areas like:
Film & Media (Warner Bros., Netflix, NBCUniversal)
Politics & Public Policy (City of LA, Congressional offices)
Healthcare (Keck Hospital, Cedars-Sinai)
Arts & Museums (The Getty, MOCA)
Startups & Tech (local incubators and Silicon Beach)
Many students also complete summer internships nationwide or participate in funded programs through Oxy.
Oxy students are well-prepared for further education, with many going on to top graduate and professional schools, including:
Harvard
Stanford
Columbia
UC Berkeley
Yale
NYU
Johns Hopkins
University of Chicago
Common grad school paths include law, medicine, business, public policy, environmental science, and the arts.
Oxy has an excellent track record of students earning prestigious fellowships like:
Fulbright
Watson Fellowship
Rhodes Scholarship
Truman Scholarship
Peace Corps placements
While Occidental doesn’t have corporate placement drives like some universities, it excels in:
Personalized career prep
Strong alumni network
Strategic internship opportunities
Grad school readiness
Social impact and service careers
The acceptance rate at Occidental College (Oxy) is approximately:
≈ 35% – 40%
Selective admissions: Oxy is considered moderately to highly selective, meaning it looks for well-rounded, academically strong, and engaged students.
The college receives around 7,000–8,000 applications each year and admits about 2,800–3,200 students.
Final enrollment is typically around 500–550 first-year students.
Strong academic performance in high school (rigorous coursework preferred)
A thoughtful personal essay that shows personality, values, and voice
Extracurricular involvement, leadership, or community service
Alignment with Oxy’s values (social justice, global citizenship, intellectual curiosity)
Optional but considered: SAT/ACT scores (Oxy is test-optional)
For international students: strong English proficiency scores
Occidental College is located in:
Eagle Rock, a residential neighborhood in Los Angeles, California, USA.
Occidental College
1600 Campus Road
Los Angeles, CA 90041
United States
Situated in northeast Los Angeles, between Pasadena and Downtown LA
Known for being a safe, artsy, and diverse neighborhood
Offers a balance between urban access and a peaceful, green campus
Close to cultural hotspots, museums, Hollywood, beaches, and major internships hubs
~15 minutes from Downtown Los Angeles
~30–45 minutes from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Public transportation and rideshare apps widely available
120-acre campus with palm trees, historic architecture, modern academic buildings, and green open spaces
Designed to be walkable, community-focused, and full of outdoor gathering spots
