Los Angeles, United States of America
Los Angeles, United States of America
Cost Of Living
Undergraduate Fees International Students
Post Graduate Fees International Students
Occidental is one of the rare small liberal arts colleges located in a major urban setting, providing a dynamic blend of close community learning with big-city opportunities. It focuses on producing socially conscious and globally aware graduates who are prepared for leadership roles.
44th President of the United States (attended for two years).
Former U.S. Congressman and professional football player.
Academy Award-winning actor and filmmaker.
Oceanographer, former NASA astronaut, and first American woman to walk in space.
Renowned actor, director, and founder of the Sundance Film Festival.
Civil rights attorney known for landmark legal battles, including Korematsu v. United States.
Film director and screenwriter known for movies like The East.
Co-founder of the Public Policy Institute of California.
Political analyst and advocate for women’s rights.
Former Chief of Staff to Michelle Obama and leader in advocacy for women’s rights in the workplace.
Occidental College’s campus is located in the Eagle Rock neighborhood of Los Angeles, blending classic Mediterranean architecture with modernized facilities across 120 acres. Key buildings include the Weingart Center for the Liberal Arts, the Hameetman Science Center, and the Johnson Student Center. The campus is known for its lush landscaping, sustainable buildings, and environmental conservation initiatives, including solar power and water conservation projects.
Occidental’s student life is vibrant, with numerous cultural, social, and academic events held throughout the year. The campus features several performance and art spaces, and students actively participate in film screenings, guest lectures, art exhibitions, and concerts. Students are encouraged to engage in service-learning and community-based programs, which build a strong sense of civic responsibility.
The Hameetman Career Center provides career counseling, resume workshops, internship placements, and job search support. Students can also connect with alumni for mentorship and networking through Occidental’s active alumni network.
The below information is required while
completing the university application :
a) Online Application Form
b) School Leaving Certificates and Transcripts
c) English Language Proficiency
d) USD 65 Application Fee
e) Letter of Recommendation
f) SAT or ACT Scores
g) Writing Sample
Requirements may vary for each program. Please visit the program page for specific requirements
Know moreOccidental maintains strong industry connections in Los Angeles and beyond, hosting career fairs, networking events, and on-campus recruitment drives. Fields such as entertainment, public policy, education, and environmental sustainability are especially well-represented, with recruiters from top organizations offering internships and job opportunities to students and graduates.
Occidental has been recognized for its high-quality teaching and commitment to global studies. It ranks among the top liberal arts colleges in the U.S. and is especially known for its environmental and urban studies programs. Occidental is also one of the few undergraduate colleges to offer a diplomacy and world affairs major, emphasizing international relations and policy.
Occidental College partnered with the California Climate Action Corps to engage students in environmental and climate change initiatives. This partnership provided students with experiential learning in tackling climate challenges.
Occidental completed a major renovation of the Johnson Student Center, enhancing student life with modern facilities for dining, collaboration, and student organization activities, creating a more vibrant and inclusive campus hub.
The Science Scholars Program was created to support underrepresented students pursuing careers in STEM fields. The program provides financial aid, mentorship, and research opportunities, promoting diversity in STEM.
Occidental launched Oxy Arts as a community arts hub on York Boulevard, fostering collaboration between students and local artists. This initiative enhanced the college’s role in local cultural engagement and creative expression.
Occidental has consistently been recognized among the nation’s top liberal arts colleges in producing Fulbright Scholars, reflecting its global engagement emphasis and strong academic mentorship.
Occidental College has produced numerous Rhodes Scholars, showcasing its strong liberal arts program and dedication to academic excellence. This honor underscores the college's role in nurturing globally competitive scholars.
Occidental completed the LEED-certified Environmental Science Center, reflecting the college's commitment to sustainability and conservation. This facility advanced hands-on learning and research in environmental studies.
The college established CCBL to integrate community engagement into the curriculum, creating a bridge between academic pursuits and civic involvement in Los Angeles. CCBL has since become a national model for community-based education.
Former U.S. President Barack Obama attended Occidental College from 1979 to 1981 before transferring to Columbia University. His time at Occidental placed the institution in the national spotlight as a formative influence in the future president's life.
Research is integral to Occidental’s academic culture. The college offers multiple grants and fellowships to support undergraduate research in fields like environmental science, political science, and global studies. The Undergraduate Research Center provides students the opportunity to collaborate with faculty on projects, present findings, and publish in academic journals. The college also has a sustainable urban farm on campus, underscoring its commitment to environmental sustainability.
The campus farm has been a model for sustainable agriculture in urban settings, inspiring similar projects across Los Angeles and beyond.
Occidental’s UEPI has driven community-based research and advocacy projects, particularly in air quality, food policy, and public health.
This institute has pioneered studies and policies focusing on urban issues, environmental justice, and community health, contributing extensively to local policy reforms.
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.