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Chapman University and Pepperdine University are both private nonprofit institutions — Chapman University in Orange, CA and Pepperdine University in Malibu, CA. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Orange, CA · Private
Acceptance rate: 65.4%
Undergrad enrollment: 7,478
Tuition: $64,984/year
Student-faculty ratio: 12.0:1
Graduation rate: 81.9%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Visual and performing arts, Communication
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Orange, CA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Visual and performing arts.
Malibu, CA · Private
Acceptance rate: 62.9%
Undergrad enrollment: 3,553
Tuition: $69,918/year
Student-faculty ratio: 12.0:1
Graduation rate: 83.4%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Communication, Social sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Malibu, CA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Communication.
| Factor | Chapman University | Pepperdine University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 65.4% | 62.9% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1260–1440 |
| 1290–1450 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 28–31 | 29–32 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 7,478 | 3,553 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $64,984/year | $69,918/year |
| Average net price after aid | $46,555 | $58,098 |
| Graduation rate | 81.9% | 83.4% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $70,070 | $82,939 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 12.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Orange, CA | Malibu, CA |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Visual and performing arts, Communication | Business and marketing, Communication, Social sciences |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (65.4% vs 62.9%). Chapman University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($46,555 vs $58,098). Pepperdine University reports the higher graduation rate (83.4% vs 81.9%). Chapman University is the larger undergraduate campus (7,478 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Chapman University and Pepperdine University
Chapman University has an acceptance rate of 65.4%; Pepperdine University is around 62.9%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Chapman University tuition is $64,984/year. Pepperdine University is $69,918/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
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