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Willamette University and Pacific University are both private nonprofit institutions — Willamette University in Salem, OR and Pacific University in Forest Grove, OR. 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.
Salem, OR · Private
Acceptance rate: 77.1%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,592
Tuition: $51,156/year
Student-faculty ratio: 13.0:1
Graduation rate: 71.2%
Top programs: Social sciences, Physical sciences, Visual and performing arts
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Salem, OR with published program strength in Social sciences and Physical sciences.
Forest Grove, OR · Private
Acceptance rate: 89.6%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,516
Tuition: $56,374/year
Student-faculty ratio: 10.0:1
Graduation rate: 67.0%
Top programs: Health professions, Business and marketing, Education
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Forest Grove, OR with published program strength in Health professions and Business and marketing.
| Factor | Willamette University | Pacific University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 77.1% | 89.6% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1240–1440 |
| 900–1240 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 28–33 | 18–29 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 1,592 | 1,516 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $51,156/year | $56,374/year |
| Average net price after aid | $25,121 | $35,273 |
| Graduation rate | 71.2% | 67.0% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $56,911 | $60,583 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 13.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Salem, OR | Forest Grove, OR |
| Largest program areas | Social sciences, Physical sciences, Visual and performing arts | Health professions, Business and marketing, Education |
Willamette University is more selective (77.1% vs 89.6% acceptance rate). Willamette University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($25,121 vs $35,273). Willamette University reports the higher graduation rate (71.2% vs 67.0%). Willamette University is the larger undergraduate campus (1,592 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 Willamette University and Pacific University
Willamette University has an acceptance rate of 77.1%; Pacific University is around 89.6%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Willamette University tuition is $51,156/year. Pacific University is $56,374/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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