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Seattle University and Pacific Lutheran University are both private nonprofit institutions — Seattle University in Seattle, 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.
Seattle, WA · Private
Acceptance rate: 76.9%
Undergrad enrollment: 4,062
Tuition: $56,721/year
Student-faculty ratio: 10.0:1
Graduation rate: 75.5%
Top programs: Health professions, Business and marketing, Biological sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Seattle, WA with published program strength in Health professions and Business and marketing.
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 | Seattle University | Pacific Lutheran University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 76.9% | 78.0% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1200–1430 |
| 1040–1260 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 23–30 | 22–28 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 4,062 | 2,401 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $56,721/year | $52,254/year |
| Average net price after aid | $34,662 | $19,589 |
| Graduation rate | 75.5% | 68.6% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $75,272 | $66,990 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Seattle, WA | Tacoma, WA |
| Largest program areas | Health professions, Business and marketing, Biological sciences | Health professions, Business and marketing, Visual and performing arts |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (76.9% vs 78.0%). Pacific Lutheran University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($19,589 vs $34,662). Seattle University reports the higher graduation rate (75.5% vs 68.6%). Seattle University is the larger undergraduate campus (4,062 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 Seattle University and Pacific Lutheran University
Seattle University has an acceptance rate of 76.9%; Pacific Lutheran University is around 78.0%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Seattle University tuition is $56,721/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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