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Home / Testbook US / Pepperdine University Admission

Pepperdine University Acceptance Rate, Admissions, SAT, GPA & ACT Scores!

Last Updated on Feb 28, 2025
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Pepperdine University, a private Christian institution in Malibu, California, is known for its scenic campus and academic excellence. With a strong focus on liberal arts, ethical leadership, and practical learning, students engage in research and community service across fields like business, law, education, psychology, and the arts. The university attracts a diverse student body and fosters a dynamic community with an average class size of 25, ensuring personal attention from faculty. Emphasizing service and ethical leadership, Pepperdine prepares students to make a positive impact.

Check Out the Upcoming SAT Test Dates for your SAT Examination!

Did You Know Facts About Pepperdine University?

🔹Breathtaking Campus: Located in Malibu, California, Pepperdine boasts one of the most beautiful campuses in the U.S., overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

🔹 Christian Roots: Founded in 1937, Pepperdine is affiliated with the Churches of Christ and emphasizes faith-based education and service.

🔹 Study Abroad Opportunities: Over 60% of students participate in global programs, with study centers in London, Florence, Buenos Aires, and more.

🔹 Small Class Sizes: With an average class size of 25, students receive personalized attention from faculty.

🔹 Hollywood Connections: Its stunning campus has been featured in movies and TV shows, including Zoey 101 and The O.C.

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Elements

Details

College Name

Pepperdine University

College Location

Malibu, California

University Short Form

Pepperdine

Graduation Rate

85%

Acceptance Rate

53%

Early Action Deadline

November 1

FAFSA Deadline

April 1

Regular Application Due

January 15

SAT Score Range

1250-1450

ACT Score Range

26-32

Get to Know the process on How to Reschedule the SAT! 

Pepperdine University Admissions Requirements

Pepperdine University seeks to enroll students who demonstrate strong academic performance, character, and potential for leadership. The admissions process is holistic, considering various aspects of an applicant's background and achievements. Applicants are encouraged to submit all materials by the respective deadlines to ensure full consideration.

Requirements

Details

High School GPA

3.6-4.0 (average admitted students)

High School Rank

A strong class rank can enhance competitiveness.

SAT Scores

1250-1450 (middle 50%)

ACT Scores

26-32 (middle 50%)

Letters of Recommendation

Not required but can strengthen the application.

Personal Statement

Encouraged for holistic review to highlight experiences.

Application Fee

$65

Extracurricular Activities

Participation in clubs, sports, or community service enhances the application.

Interviews

Not required but may benefit certain programs.

AP/IB Courses

AP/IB courses demonstrate academic rigor.

Portfolio (for specific programs)

Required for certain arts or design-related majors.

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Pepperdine University SAT Scores Requirements 

Admissions to Pepperdine University are test-optional, meaning that a student has the option of presenting SAT scores or ACT scores with an application. For lots of students applying, standardized test scores may bring out the best academic capacities, while, for others, not providing scores could be the better option if they feel it does not reflect their capacity in academics.

Pepperdine University Average SAT Score for Admitted Students

For test-takers who report scores, the average SAT scores range is a useful anchor point. Scores in this range can enhance a student's chances for admission, though note that, as a holistic admissions university, Pepperdine does not make admission decisions strictly on standardized test scores.

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Pepperdine University SAT Scores Distribution 

The table below presents more details about the SAT score distributions of admitted students to Pepperdine University, including mean, 25th percentile, and 75th percentile scores for every component.

Component

Mean Score

25th Percentile

75th Percentile

Evidence-Based Reading & Writing

660

610

710

Mathematics

655

590

720

Total Score

1315

1250

1430

Get to Know What Does Test Optional Policy Mean for College Admissions?

Pepperdine University ACT Scores Requirements

Pepperdine University has gone test-optional, giving applicants a choice of submitting or not submitting standardized test scores, including the ACT. For admitted students who submit ACT scores, the middle 50% typically have composite scores ranging from 26 to 32. This indicates 25% of admitted students will score below 26 and 25% of admitted students will score above 32.

Check Out the Upcoming SAT Test Dates for your SAT Examination!

Pepperdine University ACT Scores Distribution

Though no minimum ACT score is required, candidates who have scores within or above this range tend to be more competitive. Pepperdine, though, considers applications in a holistic manner, looking beyond standardized test scores to factors such as academic record, extracurricular activities, leadership activities, and personal character.

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Does Pepperdine University Superscores SAT & ACT Exam? 

Pepperdine University superscores both the SAT and ACT tests. This involves taking your best section scores from each testing date and using them to formulate your best overall composite score. It is beneficial to send in all of your test scores because it ensures that the university can look at your best work in multiple sittings. Pepperdine does not, however, blend scores from the old and new SATs because they are scaled differently.

Find out the Upcoming ACT Test Dates and Deadlines! 

Pepperdine University GPA Requirements

Academic performance is part and parcel of the applicant's profile at Pepperdine University. The university seeks those challenging themselves with Advanced Placement courses, International Baccalaureate, or honors ones. Moreover, the university values students demonstrating excellence academically, leadership, and a commitment to service.

Average GPA of Admitted Students

An interesting statistic from Pepperdine University reports is that the middle 50% of admitted students had a GPA of 3.5 to 4.0, indicating high academic content and challenging work. Of course, this does not mean that lower GPAs cannot prevail; admissions are holistic, and an applicant with, for example, leadership experience and community service will be involved. 

GPA Range

Percent of Admitted Students

4.0+

30%

3.75-3.99

25%

3.50-3.74

20%

3.00-3.49

15%

Below 3.00

10%

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Pepperdine University Acceptance Rate

Pepperdine University has an acceptance rate of approximately 50%. Admitted students typically have SAT scores ranging from 1350 to 1440 as this is an University located in Malibu, California, is a private institution known for its selective admissions process and commitment to providing financial assistance to its students.

Pepperdine University Scholarships 

In addition, Pepperdine invites students to pursue external scholarships provided by private institutions. Resources and support are offered by the university to assist students in finding and applying for such chances. Pepperdine provides a range of scholarships to aid its students:

  • Regents Scholars Program: Scholarships beginning at $20,000 a year, renewable for a maximum of four years, for students who exhibit exceptional academic performance.
  • Blanche E. Seaver Scholarship: Merit scholarships for students who have impressive academic records.
  • Talent Awards: Scholarships for students who are gifted in the field of music, art, theater, debate, and science.

The admissions policy of Pepperdine University is holistic. That only means that the admissions committee considers the applicant's academic performance, personal qualities, and potential to contribute to the university community when taking an application in. Although Pepperdine looks at GPA, test scores, and extracurricular activities, she also gives much importance to leadership, community service, and personal growth. A well-rounded application with good test scores, meaningful involvement in extracurricular activities, and thoughtful personal statement will actually get you a leg up on Pepperdine's committee.

Pepperdine University Admissions FAQs

With a composite SAT score in the range of 1200 to 1430, you'll be in a very competitive range for consideration at Pepperdine.

Absolutely: a truly high SAT score can overcome a below-average GPA when your application reveals leadership abilities and significant involvement in extracurricular activities.

Yes. The institution of Pepperdine University superscores the SAT. This simply means that the scores from multiple test dates will be consulted in order to give you the highest scores for evaluation when applying.

Yes, Pepperdine University is test-optional. Students do not have to provide the application with SAT or ACT scores.

AP and IB classes are regarded very positively as part of the application process at Pepperdine. Achievement in these difficult courses demonstrates your readiness for the rigors of college-level coursework and can strengthen an application.
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