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Gonzaga University and Pacific Lutheran University are both private nonprofit institutions — Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA and Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, WA. 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.
Spokane, WA · Private
Acceptance rate: 81.7%
Undergrad enrollment: 5,198
Tuition: $55,480/year
Student-faculty ratio: 12.0:1
Graduation rate: 86.3%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Social sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Spokane, WA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Biological sciences.
Tacoma, WA · Private
Acceptance rate: 78.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 2,401
Tuition: $52,254/year
Student-faculty ratio: 12.0:1
Graduation rate: 68.6%
Top programs: Health professions, Business and marketing, Visual and performing arts
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Tacoma, WA with published program strength in Health professions and Business and marketing.
| Factor | Gonzaga University | Pacific Lutheran University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 81.7% | 78.0% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1190–1380 |
| 1040–1260 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 27–31 | 22–28 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 5,198 | 2,401 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $55,480/year | $52,254/year |
| Average net price after aid | $35,119 | $19,589 |
| Graduation rate | 86.3% | 68.6% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $78,892 | $66,990 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 12.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Spokane, WA | Tacoma, WA |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Social sciences | Health professions, Business and marketing, Visual and performing arts |
Pacific Lutheran University is more selective (78.0% vs 81.7% acceptance rate). Pacific Lutheran University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($19,589 vs $35,119). Gonzaga University reports the higher graduation rate (86.3% vs 68.6%). Gonzaga University is the larger undergraduate campus (5,198 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 Gonzaga University and Pacific Lutheran University
Gonzaga University has an acceptance rate of 81.7%; Pacific Lutheran University is around 78.0%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Gonzaga University tuition is $55,480/year. Pacific Lutheran University is $52,254/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.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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