
3900 Lomaland Dr, San Diego, CA 92106, San Diego, CA 92106-2899, USA


Point Loma Nazarene University holds accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), an agency recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. This accreditation affirms that the university meets strict standards relating to academic quality, institutional integrity, and effectiveness.
The university's teacher education programs have gained additional recognition from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. This specialized accreditation is particularly relevant for students pursuing credentials in education, ensuring that their preparation aligns with state licensure requirements.
Additionally, the nursing programs at Point Loma Nazarene University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), which validates the quality and rigor of their nursing education offerings, important for students aiming for professional nursing careers.
Point Loma Nazarene University requires prospective students to have completed a secondary school education, with a high school GPA and academic record playing key roles in the application process. While a General Educational Development (GED) credential is accepted, applicants must also submit recommendations. Although specific admission tests like the SAT or ACT are not mandatory, submitting scores from other standardized tests is recommended. The institution does not have an open admission policy, and dual credit or college credit options before enrollment are not available; however, Advanced Placement credits are accepted.
The university suggests that applicants rank highly in their secondary school class, although this is not compulsory. Competencies and other admission tests are encouraged but not strictly required. Enrollment statistics indicate an acceptance rate of approximately 82%, reflecting a moderately selective admissions environment. The average admitted student has a strong academic profile, with mean SAT scores around 1260, placing them in the top 25% nationally; mean ACT scores average 26, which is in the top 40% percentile.
Point Loma Nazarene University requires an application fee from prospective students, which contributes to processing their admissions materials. However, the university understands that such fees can be a barrier for some applicants and provides fee waivers under certain conditions. These waivers are typically available to students demonstrating financial hardship or those who qualify based on participation in specific programs or circumstances outlined by the admissions office.
The process for obtaining a fee waiver involves submitting appropriate documentation as part of the application, ensuring that eligible students are not deterred by the cost of applying. This approach aligns with the university's broader commitment to accessibility and inclusiveness in higher education.
Point Loma Nazarene University offers access to Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs through its partnership with a cooperating host institution. This arrangement enables students to participate in ROTC training and activities while enrolled at the university.
Point Loma Nazarene University welcomes transfer students for the fall, spring, and summer terms. The institution evaluates transfer applicants by accepting credits earned through standardized exams such as CLEP subject tests, CLEP general exams, and DANTES. Prospective transfer students should also note that the university accepts transfer credits from other academic institutions.
Additionally, recommendations are considered as part of the transfer admission process, which can support the evaluation of an applicant's qualifications and readiness. These flexible options demonstrate the university's commitment to accommodating transfer students with diverse academic backgrounds.
Point Loma Nazarene University offers various study abroad opportunities designed to enhance global awareness and academic growth for its students. These programs include faculty-led short-term trips, which usually take place during academic breaks and focus on immersive cultural and educational experiences in specific international locations.
Additionally, students can participate in semester-long or year-long exchanges with partner universities worldwide. These exchange programs allow students to enroll directly in foreign institutions, providing a deeper engagement with local culture and academics while earning credit toward their degree.
The university also supports independent study abroad options, facilitating student-planned experiences that align with their academic goals and personal interests, subject to university approval and credit transfer agreements.
Through these various options, Point Loma Nazarene University aims to equip students with a broader perspective and cross-cultural competencies vital for their future careers and personal development.
Median composite SAT score
1260Median composite ACT score
26Percent of students submitting ACT scores
6%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
7.5%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
Data not availableComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RequiredFormal 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 at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent 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
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer