
1500 N. Warner St., Tacoma, WA 98416, USA


University of Puget Sound holds accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), a regional accrediting agency recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. This accreditation confirms that the institution meets established standards for quality in higher education, ensuring that its academic programs, faculty qualifications, and student services adhere to rigorous criteria.
Admission to University of Puget Sound requires completion of a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Applicants must submit their secondary school records, including a required minimum GPA; while class rank is recommended, it is not mandatory. Letters of recommendation are also necessary for a complete application.
English proficiency is mandatory, demonstrated through a required Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score, with other language proficiency tests considered recommended but not compulsory. The university does not have an open admission policy, and dual credit or general college program credit is not granted, although Advanced Placement (AP) credits are accepted.
The typical admitted student boasts strong academic credentials, with a mean SAT score of 1260, placing them in approximately the top 25% nationally. Their average SAT math and writing scores are 620 and 640, respectively, both noted as high levels. The mean ACT score for admitted students is 29, ranking in the top 15% nationwide.
University of Puget Sound received 5,548 applications, with about 76% acceptance rate, reflecting a moderately selective admissions process. Of those admitted, 463 enrolled, indicating an enrollment rate in the mid-30 percentile range.
The University of Puget Sound requires prospective students to pay an application fee, which is fixed to cover the administrative costs associated with processing each application. However, the university offers fee waivers for eligible applicants to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder access to the admission process. These waivers are designed to assist students who demonstrate financial need or meet specific criteria set by the institution.
Applicants may request a fee waiver through standardized programs or by providing documentation that supports their financial situation. The university evaluates these requests on a case-by-case basis to confirm eligibility. Additionally, fee waivers are often extended to students participating in recognized college access initiatives.
University of Puget Sound does not host its own ROTC programs directly. However, prospective students interested in ROTC opportunities can participate through a cooperative arrangement with a host institution that operates the ROTC units. This setup allows students to engage in military training and leadership development while enrolled at University of Puget Sound, though the ROTC instruction and activities occur at the affiliated institution.
University of Puget Sound permits transfers during the fall and spring terms, providing some flexibility for students planning to continue their education there. The institution maintains a moderately difficult admission standard for transfer applicants, indicating a selective process that requires careful preparation and competitive credentials. Transfer credit is accepted, allowing students to apply previously earned college credits toward their degree at University of Puget Sound.
University of Puget Sound offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance the academic and cultural experiences of its students. These programs range from semester- and year-long exchanges to short-term faculty-led trips during breaks. Students can choose from destinations across multiple continents, allowing them to immerse themselves in diverse global environments while earning credits toward their degrees.
The university emphasizes programs that align with its liberal arts curriculum, ensuring that participants can explore courses relevant to their major or interests. Additionally, many study abroad options include language immersion components, internships, or community service, broadening both academic and personal growth.
To support students, University of Puget Sound provides advising and assistance with logistics such as housing, visas, and financial aid options tailored to study abroad experiences. This comprehensive support helps students navigate the complexities of studying in a foreign country confidently.
Median composite SAT score
1260Median composite ACT score
29Percent of students submitting ACT scores
10%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
31%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
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
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
NoROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent 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
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
Data not availableAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring