California Lutheran University
Thousand Oaks, California · Private
California Lutheran University admitted 76% of 6,044 applicants (Common Data Set 2025-2026). First-year students who sent the SAT scored 1100–1320 in the middle half. Test scores are optional. 74% of students graduate within six years.
Your chances at California Lutheran University
Enter a score to see whether California Lutheran University is a reach, target or likely school for you.
Based on the admit rate (76%) alone. Add a score for a sharper read.
A rough read from the admit rate and test scores only. Grades, courses, essays and activities matter as much or more. To see your whole list at once, use the chances calculator.
Application deadlines
California Lutheran University’s first-year deadlines for 2026–27 on the Common App:
- Early action
- November 15, 2026
- Regular decision
- January 15, 2027
The application fee is $25, and California Lutheran University accepts the Common App fee waiver. California Lutheran University asks for the Common App personal essay, one teacher recommendation, and a counselor recommendation.
Deadlines end at 11:59 p.m. in your own time zone. From Common App’s requirements grid, updated September 25, 2026. Check California Lutheran University’s admissions site before you submit. See every college’s deadlines or early decision vs. early action.
Early decision and early action
California Lutheran University offers early action but didn’t report its early admit rate.
What admissions weighs
How California Lutheran University rates each part of an application, from its Common Data Set.
Very important
- GPA
- Essay
- Recommendations
Important
- Class rank
- Activities
- Character
- First generation
- Where you live
Considered
- Course rigor
- Test scores
- Interview
- Talent or ability
- Legacy
- State residency
- Religion
- Volunteering
- Work experience
- Showing interest
Not considered
- –
High school GPA
First-year students averaged a 3.68 GPA. 18% of those who reported a class rank were in the top 10% of their class.
Some colleges report weighted GPAs, so compare loosely.
What it costs
Full price with housing is $73,386 a year. After grants, students paid $27,080 on average.
Average price after grants, by family income:
Quick answers
What is California Lutheran University’s acceptance rate?
California Lutheran University admitted 76% of applicants: 4,612 of 6,044 (Common Data Set 2025-2026).
When is California Lutheran University’s early action deadline?
For 2026–27, early action is due November 15, 2026 and regular decision is due January 15, 2027. Common App deadlines end at 11:59 p.m. in your own time zone.
What SAT score do you need for California Lutheran University?
The middle half of admitted students who sent the SAT scored 1100 to 1320, with a median around 1210. A score at or above 1210 puts you in the top half of admitted students who sent one.
How much is California Lutheran University’s application fee?
The application fee is $25 for 2026–27, and California Lutheran University accepts the Common App fee waiver.
What does California Lutheran University require?
Besides the application and transcript, California Lutheran University asks for the Common App personal essay, one teacher recommendation, and a counselor recommendation.
Does California Lutheran University have supplemental essays?
No. California Lutheran University has no supplemental essays for 2026–27. You send only the Common App personal essay.
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