
12180 Park Avenue S., Tacoma, WA 98447, USA


Pacific Lutheran University holds accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, which is a regional accreditation agency recognized for ensuring academic quality and institutional integrity. This accreditation confirms that the university meets established standards for higher education and provides students assurance about the value and recognition of their degrees.
In addition to its institutional accreditation, Pacific Lutheran University maintains specific program accreditations that are relevant to certain professional fields. These specialized accreditations support the university's commitment to maintaining rigorous standards in areas such as education, business, and nursing.
Pacific Lutheran University requires applicants to have completed a high school diploma or an equivalent such as the General Educational Development (GED) certificate. A secondary school GPA and full school records must be submitted as part of the application process.
The university does not have an open admission policy and recommends that applicants demonstrate certain competencies and submit other test scores, although specific tests are not mandated. Advanced Placement (AP) credits are accepted, but dual credit and other college program credits are not.
Standardized test scores such as SAT and ACT are considered, with the university reporting a mean SAT score of 1264, placing admitted students in the top 25 percent nationally. The mean ACT score is 25, which is around the national average. The acceptance rate stands at approximately 81 percent, indicating a moderately selective admissions process.
Pacific Lutheran University requires prospective students to submit an application fee when applying for admission. This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with processing applications. However, the university recognizes that financial constraints can be a barrier and therefore offers fee waivers to eligible applicants. These waivers are typically available to students who demonstrate financial need or meet certain criteria set by the admissions office.
Applicants seeking a fee waiver must provide appropriate documentation or follow the university's established process to request exemption from the application fee. This provision aims to promote greater access and affordability for students who might otherwise be deterred by application expenses.
Pacific Lutheran University hosts an ROTC branch unit on its campus, providing students with direct access to military training and leadership development opportunities. Additionally, the university collaborates with a cooperating host institution that also operates an ROTC branch unit, expanding options for students interested in pursuing ROTC programs. This dual arrangement allows prospective students to engage with ROTC activities either directly on campus or through the partnered institution, catering to various preferences and logistical needs.
Pacific Lutheran University welcomes transfer students during the fall, spring, and summer terms. Prospective transfers can apply with various forms of credit, as the university accepts credits from external examinations including CLEP general and subject tests, as well as DANTES exams. Transfer acceptance appears to be relatively accessible, with the institution classified as minimally difficult to enter. Recommendations are also considered as part of the application process, supporting a holistic review of transfer applicants.
Pacific Lutheran University offers a diverse range of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance the academic and cultural experiences of its students. These programs include semester-, summer-, and short-term options that allow participants to immerse themselves in different global environments while earning academic credit.
The university collaborates with a variety of international partners and exchange programs, providing access to numerous countries and educational institutions worldwide. Students may engage in faculty-led trips focused on specific academic disciplines or cultural themes, facilitating in-depth learning outside the traditional classroom setting.
Additionally, the university supports independent study abroad experiences where students can tailor their international education to fit their personal and academic goals, often with guidance from university advisors. These programs emphasize language acquisition, global citizenship, and intercultural competence, preparing students for a more interconnected world.
Pacific Lutheran University also integrates experiential learning components such as internships, service projects, and research opportunities within its study abroad offerings, enriching students' practical skills alongside their academic development.
Median composite SAT score
1264Median composite ACT score
25High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
Data not availableOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
Data not availableROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
EasyGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer