This college guide uses the most recent data available provided by the U.S. Department of Education. This information was last updated on October 10th, 2023.
Pepperdine University Admission Requirements Guide
Whether you’re just starting to consider Pepperdine University as an option or are well into the application process, this guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the Pepperdine University undergraduate admission requirements. After reading this guide, you will understand what needs to be done to maximize your chances of being admitted to this institution’s undergraduate program.
Pepperdine University Acceptance Rate
The Pepperdine University admission rate was 52.71% for the most recent class. While it can still be challenging to stand out among the pool of applicants, students who put in the effort to craft a strong application and demonstrate their passion and potential have a decent chance of being admitted to these schools. Ultimately, you should strive to find the right fit for your goals and interests, regardless of acceptance rates. This admission requirement rundown should help improve your chances of being accepted into Pepperdine University.
Pepperdine University GPA Requirements
Every high school has its own method of constructing students’ grade point averages (GPA). Some secondary schools use a weighted GPA system, where they take into account the rigor of honors courses and weigh them more heavily, and others use an unweighted GPA system, in which letter grades all carry the same weight regardless of the course’s difficulty.
To level the playing field, schools often compare applicants through their unweighted GPA and consider the number of honors and advanced courses separately. This is how Pepperdine University typically conducts its college application review process.
Pepperdine University Average GPA
When looking at undergraduate students who were most recently admitted, the Pepperdine University average GPA is 3.6. Although there are no GPA requirements for admission, it is strongly recommended that prospective students aim for at least a 3.6 to give themselves an adequate chance of being accepted into Pepperdine University.
Pepperdine University SAT Score Requirements
The SAT is a standardized test that measures college readiness and educational foundation. The SAT has been used for nearly 100 years to test prospective students in mathematics, reading, writing, and language. Here are the SAT metrics to take into account when applying to Pepperdine University.
Pepperdine University Average SAT Scores
When looking at the undergraduate students who were in the most recently admitted class, the average Pepperdine University SAT Score was 1342.
Here is the range of Pepperdine University SAT scores segmented by the three sections of the test: Critical Reading, Math, and Writing.
SAT Scores of Undergraduate Students Recently Admitted to Pepperdine University: | |||
| 25th Percentile | Median | 75th Percentile | |
| Critical Reading | 630 | 670 | 710 |
| Math | 630 | 680 | 730 |
| Writing | 550 | 600 | 650 |
Does Pepperdine University Require SAT Test Results?
Several major colleges have placed less emphasis on requiring SAT test scores; some are not weighing them as heavily when making admission decisions. On the other hand, the majority of large universities still require applicants to send in their SAT results. Many schools waived the requirement for students impacted by the pandemic, making this question even more convoluted. Thus, is Pepperdine University currently requiring the submission of SAT test results to be considered for admission?
Pepperdine University does not require SAT test results, according to our latest data. However, keep in mind that this policy could change with little notice. We still encourage students to submit their SAT scores as part of their application.
Pepperdine University's SAT Score Choice Policy
Pepperdine University does accept the SAT ‘Superscore’ policy. This means that applicants who have taken the SAT several times may submit their best scores for each section, rather than submitting every full report. For example, if you received a higher score on your Reading section during your first test, but received a higher score on the Mathematics section on your second test, you may combine these scores for a comprehensive ‘Superscore’.
Pepperdine University ACT Score Requirements
The ACT was founded in 1969 and serves as another college readiness measurement tool. The four subject areas are: English, mathematics, reading, and science. Here are the details regarding Pepperdine University’s ACT Requirements.
Pepperdine University Average ACT Scores
When examining the most recently accepted undergraduate class, the median ACT Score for Pepperdine University is 28.
Here is an updated range of Pepperdine University ACT scores segmented by the three sections of the exam: English, Math, and Writing.
ACT Scores of Undergraduate Students Recently Admitted to Pepperdine University: | |||
| 25th Percentile | Median | 75th Percentile | |
| English | 24 | 29 | 33 |
| Math | 23 | 26 | 29 |
| Writing | 8 | 9 | 9 |
Does Pepperdine University Require ACT Test Results?
Pepperdine University is not requiring applicants to submit ACT test scores. Although standardized tests are not required for their current admissions period, it is strongly recommended to submit your ACT results. Admissions counselors are looking at the applicant holistically, and a good score can add weight to your application.
Pepperdine University's ACT Score Choice Policy
Pepperdine University only allows ACT composite scores to be submitted. Applicants are invited to submit all of their ACT attempts if their college counselor recommends it, though.
Pepperdine University Application Requirements
Pepperdine University is a great undergraduate school to attend. Pepperdine University’s admission office is able to extend offers to many students while still being selective. To stand out in the admissions process, it is critical to abide by the school’s application requirements.
Does Pepperdine University Use the Common App?
Like most major U.S. schools, Pepperdine University does use the Common Application for their admissions process. The Common App is a unified application that prospective students use to apply to undergraduate colleges and universities. It allows applicants to use a single application that can be sent to as many colleges as they apply to, instead of repeatedly inputting the same demographic and academic information per school. Pepperdine University may request additional materials, such as supplemental essays and questions, but the primary application structure remains the same.
Does Pepperdine University Require Letters of Recommendation?
Pepperdine University requires 1 letter of recommendation from a teacher. This letter of rec, or ‘teacher evaluation’, is used to assess what type of student you are and your strengths in the classroom. We recommend approaching a teacher that you have a strong relationship with to write this letter of recommendation, as they can attest to your academic and interpersonal skills. If you can’t think of anyone to ask, then try considering who your biggest mentor has been throughout your academic experience in high school. Try to find a teacher who is familiar with your character, rather than just your academic profile.
A recommendation letter from a school counselor or guidance counselor is not required to apply to Pepperdine University. However, they can optionally be submitted as a supplemental document in your application.
Pepperdine University Application Checklist
See our application checklist for Pepperdine University below to ensure you complete and submit the proper materials.
Required Application Materials:
- Completed Common App
- 1 Letter of Recommendation from a Teacher
- Personal Statement (College Essay)
- Pepperdine University Application Fee or Fee Waiver
- Academic Transcripts (at the time of submission and when senior year first semester grades are released)
Optional Application Materials:
- Standardized Test Scores, such as the SAT or ACT
- Additional Recommendation Letters (Teacher Evaluations)
Does Pepperdine University Accept AP Credit?
Pepperdine University accepts Advanced Placement (AP) credits, but not all scores will be accepted for college credits. Your AP score typically must be at least a “5” to be considered for college credit. Depending on the subject area, the scores may count towards as many as 12 course credits. For some subjects, Pepperdine University will not convert the scores to any college credit. This is something to keep in mind when enrolling for AP courses during high school. It’s also important to note that colleges change their AP credit policies on a near annual basis.
Pepperdine University Facts & Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pepperdine University Public or Private?
Pepperdine University is a private, non-profit university. Private universities’ primary sources of funding are through tuition, donations, and endowments. Although tuition may be higher at these nonprofit institutions, generous financial aid packages are more common than public schools. Tuition rates do not differ between in-state and out-of-state students.
How Many Students Does Pepperdine University Have?
Pepperdine University’s student body is made up of 3706 undergraduate degree-seeking students, according to our latest data. Pepperdine University offers the benefits of both large and small schools. The class sizes and student to faculty ratios are much lower than what a large school would have, and yet the college still offers a variety of options to network and get to know your professors.
How do I apply to Pepperdine University?
Make sure you have all of the required application materials we covered on hand. You can learn more about the application process for this particular institution at Pepperdine University’s Website.
Where is Pepperdine University?
Pepperdine University is located in Malibu, CA. To visualize where Pepperdine University’s campus is based in relation to Malibu’s downtown area and landmarks, take a look at the interactive map below.
Pepperdine University Campus Map
Final Thoughts on Applying to Pepperdine University
Hopefully this guide helped you to learn more about the admissions requirements for Pepperdine University. When applying to colleges, remember to keep in mind that not every school will be a good fit. Take the time to evaluate what’s most important to you, such as the school’s academic opportunities, financial aid benefits, and location. All of the application components we covered are important – take your time to put your best foot forward. The College Grid team wishes you the best of luck on your college applications!
Sydney Janssen
As a valedictorian in high school, I developed a strong passion for learning and pushing myself to achieve academic success. Now, as a first-generation college graduate, I'm excited to share my experiences and insights with others who may be navigating similar paths through College Grid.