Pacific Lutheran University
Tacoma, Washington · Private
Pacific Lutheran University admitted 87% of 5,306 applicants (Common Data Set 2025-2026). First-year students who sent the SAT scored 988–1258 in the middle half. Test scores are optional. 71% of students graduate within six years.
Your chances at Pacific Lutheran University
Enter a score to see whether Pacific Lutheran University is a reach, target or likely school for you.
Based on the admit rate (87%) 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
Pacific Lutheran University’s first-year deadlines for 2026–27 on the Common App:
- Regular decision
- Rolling admission
The application is free, and Pacific Lutheran University accepts the Common App fee waiver. Pacific Lutheran University asks for the Common App personal essay.
Deadlines end at 11:59 p.m. in your own time zone. From Common App’s requirements grid, updated September 25, 2026. Check Pacific Lutheran University’s admissions site before you submit. See every college’s deadlines or early decision vs. early action.
Early decision and early action
Pacific Lutheran University doesn’t report an early decision or early action round.
What admissions weighs
How Pacific Lutheran University rates each part of an application, from its Common Data Set.
Very important
- GPA
Important
- Course rigor
- Recommendations
Considered
- Test scores
- Essay
- Character
- First generation
- Legacy
- Where you live
Not considered
- Class rank
- Interview
- Activities
- Talent or ability
- State residency
- Religion
- Volunteering
- Work experience
- Showing interest
High school GPA
First-year students averaged a 3.65 GPA.
Some colleges report weighted GPAs, so compare loosely.
What it costs
Full price with housing is $66,837 a year. After grants, students paid $23,841 on average.
Average price after grants, by family income:
Quick answers
What is Pacific Lutheran University’s acceptance rate?
Pacific Lutheran University admitted 87% of applicants: 4,595 of 5,306 (Common Data Set 2025-2026).
When is Pacific Lutheran University’s application deadline?
Pacific Lutheran University uses rolling admission for 2026–27 and has no early round on the Common App, so applying early in the fall gives you the best shot at open spots and aid.
What SAT score do you need for Pacific Lutheran University?
The middle half of admitted students who sent the SAT scored 988 to 1258, with a median around 1130. A score at or above 1130 puts you in the top half of admitted students who sent one.
How much is Pacific Lutheran University’s application fee?
The application is free for 2026–27, and Pacific Lutheran University accepts the Common App fee waiver.
What does Pacific Lutheran University require?
Besides the application and transcript, Pacific Lutheran University asks for the Common App personal essay.
Does Pacific Lutheran University have supplemental essays?
No. Pacific Lutheran University has no supplemental essays for 2026–27. You send only the Common App personal essay.
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