Overview
Pacific Lutheran University is a accessible private four-year institution in Tacoma, Washington. The school accepts 88.9% of applicants and enrolls 2,350 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 88.9%
- Average SAT
- 1,338
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,253–1,423
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 29
- Total Enrollment
- 2,350
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Pacific Lutheran University accepts applications through the Common Application with a rolling admissions process, so you can apply anytime but should submit materials by February 1 for the best financial aid consideration. You'll need to submit your high school transcript, one letter of recommendation, and either SAT or ACT scores, though PLU has adopted a test-optional policy for most programs.
The nursing program requires separate application materials including prerequisite coursework in chemistry, biology, and anatomy. Computer science and engineering programs, while not requiring additional applications, fill quickly due to high demand and strong job placement rates. Submit your application earlier in the cycle if you're interested in these competitive majors.
PLU guarantees housing for first-year students, and you should complete your housing application immediately after submitting your enrollment deposit. The campus sits on 156 acres with Mount Rainier views, and most academic buildings connect through covered walkways due to Tacoma's rainy climate. New students attend a three-day orientation program called Connection that includes academic advising, course registration, and outdoor activities.
The school operates on a 4-1-4 academic calendar with a January interim term called J-Term, where you can take intensive courses, study abroad, or complete internships. Many students use this month for hands-on learning experiences or international travel programs. You'll need to factor this unique schedule into your academic planning, especially if you're considering summer jobs or internships that typically start in May.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $21,370/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $50,964
- Students Receiving Aid
- 33%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 71.0%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $66,990/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 79.4%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Pacific Lutheran University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Pacific Lutheran University has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores with their application.
What is the application deadline for Pacific Lutheran University?
Pacific Lutheran University has rolling admissions with priority deadlines of February 1 for fall admission and December 1 for spring admission.
Does Pacific Lutheran University offer early decision or early action?
Pacific Lutheran University does not offer early decision or early action programs. All applications are reviewed through their rolling admissions process.
Can transfer students apply to Pacific Lutheran University's nursing program?
Transfer students can apply to Pacific Lutheran University, but the nursing program has specific prerequisite courses and limited spots. Transfer students should contact the nursing department directly about program requirements and availability.