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University of Puget Sound and Pacific Lutheran University are both private nonprofit institutions — University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, 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.
Tacoma, WA · Private
Acceptance rate: 72.3%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,594
Tuition: $62,898/year
Student-faculty ratio: 10.0:1
Graduation rate: 68.0%
Top programs: Social sciences, Business and marketing, Visual and performing arts
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Tacoma, WA with published program strength in Social sciences 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 | University of Puget Sound | Pacific Lutheran University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 72.3% | 78.0% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1170–1380 |
| 1040–1260 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 27–31 | 22–28 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 1,594 | 2,401 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $62,898/year | $52,254/year |
| Average net price after aid | $38,394 | $19,589 |
| Graduation rate | 68.0% | 68.6% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $69,594 | $66,990 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Tacoma, WA | Tacoma, WA |
| Largest program areas | Social sciences, Business and marketing, Visual and performing arts | Health professions, Business and marketing, Visual and performing arts |
University of Puget Sound is more selective (72.3% vs 78.0% acceptance rate). Pacific Lutheran University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($19,589 vs $38,394). Both report a similar graduation rate (68.0%). Pacific Lutheran University is the larger undergraduate campus (2,401 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 University of Puget Sound and Pacific Lutheran University
University of Puget Sound has an acceptance rate of 72.3%; Pacific Lutheran University is around 78.0%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
University of Puget Sound tuition is $62,898/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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