Overview
California College of Music is a less selective for-profit two-year institution in Pasadena, California. The school accepts 69.2% of applicants and enrolls 7 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 69.2%
- Total Enrollment
- 7
Admission Guide
California College of Music accepts most applicants who can demonstrate genuine commitment to music performance and production. Your audition carries the most weight in admissions decisions, so prepare thoroughly and choose pieces that showcase your technical skills and artistic interpretation.
The college specializes in contemporary music programs including guitar performance, bass performance, drums, vocals, keyboard, music production, and songwriting. When writing your personal statement, focus on specific musical experiences that shaped your artistic direction rather than general statements about loving music. Mention particular genres, artists, or techniques that inspire your work.
Submit your application early since the school operates on rolling admissions. This means you'll receive your decision within weeks of applying, and early applicants often have better chances of securing financial aid. The small class sizes mean spots fill quickly for popular programs.
Campus culture revolves around collaboration between students from different musical backgrounds. You'll find jazz musicians working with electronic producers and singer-songwriters collaborating with drummers. The environment suits students who want intensive, hands-on training rather than traditional academic coursework.
Your application should include a strong audition video or live audition that demonstrates both technical proficiency and musicality. For production programs, submit original compositions or recordings that show your understanding of audio engineering principles. Don't choose overly complex pieces you can't execute cleanly.
The college connects students directly with Los Angeles music industry professionals through internships and networking events. This proximity to major recording studios, venues, and music companies provides practical career preparation you won't find at traditional colleges.
Financial planning matters here since this is a for-profit institution. Research scholarship opportunities and consider the return on investment for your specific career goals. The focused curriculum means you can complete your program quickly, but you'll need clear direction about your musical path before enrolling.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $18,922/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $18,830
- Students Receiving Aid
- 7%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the admission requirements for California College of Music?
California College of Music requires an audition, high school diploma or equivalent, and completed application with personal statement. International students must also submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Does California College of Music require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
California College of Music does not require SAT or ACT scores. Admission is primarily based on audition performance and academic transcripts.
Can you transfer credits to California College of Music?
California College of Music accepts transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions. Credits must be relevant to music studies and students typically need a minimum 2.0 GPA from their previous school.
What is the application deadline for California College of Music?
California College of Music operates on rolling admissions with multiple start dates throughout the year. Students should apply at least 30 days before their intended start date to allow time for audition scheduling and processing.