Overview
Vanguard University of Southern California is a less selective private four-year institution in Costa Mesa, California. The school accepts 74.8% of applicants and enrolls 1,975 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 74.8%
- Total Enrollment
- 1,975
Admission Guide
You can apply to Vanguard University through the Common Application or directly through their website, with a rolling admissions process that continues through summer for fall enrollment. Submit your high school transcripts, one letter of recommendation, and a personal statement explaining your faith journey and academic goals.
The nursing program requires separate application materials including prerequisite coursework in sciences and math, plus additional health requirements like background checks and immunizations. Competition for nursing spots is intense despite the university's overall accessibility, so apply early and maintain strong grades in prerequisite courses.
All freshmen under 21 must live on campus unless they live with parents within 50 miles. Housing applications open in February, and you should submit yours quickly since some residence halls fill up. The university requires attendance at New Student Orientation before classes begin.
Vanguard operates as a Christian university affiliated with the Assemblies of God, meaning chapel attendance is mandatory and you'll encounter faith-based perspectives across your coursework. Students who aren't comfortable with this environment should consider other options.
Financial aid processing moves quickly here, but submit your FAFSA by March 2 for priority consideration for institutional grants. The school offers payment plans if you need to spread costs across the semester.
Located in Costa Mesa, you're 10 minutes from Newport Beach and an hour from Los Angeles. Most students need cars since public transportation options are limited, though the campus provides shuttles to nearby shopping areas.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $19,761/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $39,950
- Students Receiving Aid
- 43%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 55.9%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $59,541/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 73.7%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Vanguard University of Southern California require SAT or ACT scores?
Vanguard University has adopted a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for Vanguard University of Southern California?
Vanguard University uses rolling admissions, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received throughout the year. Students are encouraged to apply early for better housing and financial aid consideration.
Does Vanguard University of Southern California accept transfer students?
Yes, Vanguard University accepts transfer students and requires a minimum 2.0 GPA from previous college coursework. Transfer students must complete at least 32 units at Vanguard to earn their degree.
What GPA do you need to get into Vanguard University of Southern California?
Vanguard University requires a minimum 2.3 high school GPA for admission consideration. The university looks at overall academic performance and personal factors beyond just GPA.