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Vanguard University of Southern California and Pepperdine University are both private nonprofit institutions — Vanguard University of Southern California in Costa Mesa, 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.
Costa Mesa, CA · Private
Acceptance rate: 62.4%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,933
Tuition: $41,700/year
Student-faculty ratio: 13.0:1
Graduation rate: 56.8%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Psychology, Health professions
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Costa Mesa, CA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Psychology.
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 | Vanguard University of Southern California | Pepperdine University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 62.4% | 62.9% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| Not reported |
| 1290–1450 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 22 average | 29–32 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 1,933 | 3,553 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $41,700/year | $69,918/year |
| Average net price after aid | $21,241 | $58,098 |
| Graduation rate | 56.8% | 83.4% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $59,541 | $82,939 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 13.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Costa Mesa, CA | Malibu, CA |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Psychology, Health professions | Business and marketing, Communication, Social sciences |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (62.4% vs 62.9%). Vanguard University of Southern California has a lower average net price after grant aid ($21,241 vs $58,098). Pepperdine University reports the higher graduation rate (83.4% vs 56.8%). Pepperdine University is the larger undergraduate campus (3,553 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 Vanguard University of Southern California and Pepperdine University
Vanguard University of Southern California has an acceptance rate of 62.4%; Pepperdine University is around 62.9%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Vanguard University of Southern California tuition is $41,700/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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