
901 12th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98122, USA


Seattle University holds regional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), an important factor that ensures the institution meets established standards of quality and academic rigor. This accreditation is significant for prospective students as it validates the university's educational programs and supports the transferability of credits to other accredited institutions.
The university's individual schools and programs also maintain specialized accreditations relevant to their fields. For example, the Albers School of Business and Economics is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), which is recognized as a hallmark of excellence in business education.
Additionally, Seattle University's programs in law, nursing, and education hold accreditation from their respective professional bodies. These accreditations affirm that the programs meet industry standards, preparing graduates adequately for professional practice and licensure.
For students, attending an institution with both regional and program-specific accreditation can enhance employment prospects, qualify them for federal financial aid, and ensure their degree is respected by employers and other educational institutions.
Seattle University requires applicants to have completed high school or possess a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Submission of secondary school records and a college program application are mandatory components of the admission process. A minimum secondary school GPA is also required to be considered for acceptance. Although standardized test scores such as the SAT or ACT are not explicitly required, submission of TOEFL scores is mandatory for non-native English speakers to demonstrate English language proficiency.
Letters of recommendation must be provided, supporting the applicant's qualifications and readiness for college-level work. Additionally, some other tests are recommended but not compulsory, along with demonstrated competencies, which are suggested to strengthen the application. Seattle University does not follow an open admission policy and does not accept dual credit or credits from other colleges, but it does recognize Advanced Placement (AP) credits, potentially allowing students to earn college credit through AP exams.
The university's acceptance rate is approximately 76%, indicating a moderately selective admission process. While comprehensive details on acceptance criteria like admissions test scores are limited, the average admitted student's academic profile includes a mean SAT score around 1225, placing them in the top 35% nationally, and a mean ACT score of 28, which is within the top 25% percentile.
The application fee for Seattle University is set at $65 for all undergraduate applicants. This fee must be paid at the time of submission and is nonrefundable. The university also provides options for fee waivers to eligible students aiming to reduce financial barriers during the application process.
Prospective students can qualify for a waiver if they demonstrate financial need through specific criteria established by Seattle University. Additionally, applicants who have participated in certain college access programs or meet guidelines set by national fee waiver programs may also be exempt from paying the application fee. Documentation to support these claims is typically required as part of the application.
Fee waivers at Seattle University are intended to ensure that finances are not an obstacle to applying, reflecting the institution's commitment to accessibility. However, it is important for applicants to verify their eligibility early and submit necessary requests or documents promptly to benefit from these waivers. Those not meeting waiver criteria must submit the standard fee as part of their application materials.
Seattle University does not host its own ROTC branch units on campus. Instead, students interested in ROTC participate through branch units located at cooperating host institutions. This arrangement allows students to access the ROTC programs available at nearby universities that serve as host institutions for their military training and education.
Seattle University welcomes transfer students in all academic terms, including fall, winter, spring, and summer. The institution accepts a variety of transfer credits to facilitate a smooth transition for students moving from other colleges or universities.
Applicants can transfer credits earned from CLEP exams, both subject-specific and general, as well as from DANTES examinations, indicating a flexible approach toward recognizing alternative assessments of college-level learning.
Additionally, Seattle University considers recommendation letters as part of the transfer application process, which may help provide further context regarding the applicant's qualifications and readiness.
Seattle University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance students' academic and cultural experiences. Its programs include short-term, faculty-led trips, semester and year-long exchanges, and summer study programs, allowing students flexible options to fit their academic schedules and interests.
Many study abroad programs are integrated with the university's academic departments, enabling students to earn credits that count toward their degrees. These experiences often emphasize immersive learning in diverse international settings, from business and law to environmental studies and the arts.
The university maintains partnerships with multiple institutions worldwide, providing access to programs across Europe, Asia, Latin America, and other regions. Students can select destinations aligning with their fields of study and personal growth goals.
Short-term programs typically last a few weeks and are frequently faculty-led, focusing on specialized topics or service learning projects. Longer-term programs offer deeper cultural immersion and broader academic options, suited for students seeking extensive international exposure.
Seattle University also supports students with pre-departure orientation and ongoing advising to help prepare for and maximize their study abroad experiences.
Median composite SAT score
1225Median composite ACT score
28High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
Data not availableComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
Data not availableSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary 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
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
Data not availableDisabilities 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 on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
NoPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
NoEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer