How to get into Pepperdine University
How to get into Pepperdine: Christian mission, the Malibu campus, ED rounds, and the international programs
62.9%
Acceptance rate
$69,918
In-state cost
What makes Pepperdine University admissions different
Pepperdine University in Malibu, CA, is a private Christian university affiliated with the Churches of Christ. Around 3,500 undergraduates. Acceptance rate around 63%. The Malibu campus on the Pacific Ocean is one of the most photographed in the country. Pepperdine's seven international campuses (Florence, London, Heidelberg, Buenos Aires, Lausanne, Shanghai, Washington DC) are a defining academic feature — most students spend at least one semester abroad. ED1 and ED2 offer a real admit bump.
What an actually competitive application looks like
- 1.
Apply through the Common App by Early Action (November 15) or Regular Decision (January 15). Pepperdine also has Early Decision options for several programs.
- 2.
Submit the Pepperdine supplement. The 'why Pepperdine' essay reads better when engaging with the Christian mission, the Malibu setting, or specific international programs.
- 3.
Pepperdine is test-optional. Submit SAT/ACT only if they strengthen your application.
- 4.
Apply for the Regent's Scholarship and Presidential Scholarship (top merit awards). Most institutional merit is awarded based on the admission application.
- 5.
Indicate interest in the International Programs on the application. Most undergraduates spend at least one semester abroad.
- 6.
Indicate any School of Business or other specific program interest.
- 7.
File the FAFSA and CSS Profile by the priority date.
Common mistakes that hurt applicants here
- ✕
Ignoring the Christian mission in the supplement. Non-Christian applicants are welcome but the supplement reads for engagement with values and the university's identity.
- ✕
Treating EA as the only early option. Check program-specific ED rounds.
- ✕
Underestimating Malibu cost of living. Plan it separately from tuition.
- ✕
Skipping the CSS Profile.
The specifics for Pepperdine University
Application deadlines
- Early ActionNovember 15, 2025
- Regular DecisionJanuary 15, 2026
What makes this admissions process distinctive
Seven international campuses
Florence, London, Heidelberg, Buenos Aires, Lausanne, Shanghai, and Washington DC. Most Pepperdine undergraduates spend at least one semester abroad.
Christian mission
Pepperdine is affiliated with the Churches of Christ. Non-Christian applicants are welcome but the supplement reads for engagement with values and the university's identity.
Notable scholarships at Pepperdine University
Regent's Scholarship and Presidential Scholarship
Top competitive merit awards based on the admission application.
What graduates actually do
Pepperdine is a private Christian university in Malibu, CA, with strong placement into Los Angeles entertainment, finance, and law. The Graziadio Business School and Caruso School of Law are major feeders to Los Angeles and Orange County professional sectors. Alumni include political figures, entertainment executives, and prominent attorneys. The university's Christian mission and seaside campus give it a distinctive culture.
Notable alumni
- Montel Williams — TV host (attended)
- Doug Flutie — Football quarterback (briefly attended)
- Stacy Keibler — Actor/model
- Bob Crane — Actor (attended Northwestern)
- Kerri Strug — Olympic gymnast
Transfer pathway
Pepperdine accepts transfers for fall and spring through rolling admissions. The university honors California's Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) for credit transfer from California Community Colleges. Minimum 3.0 GPA typical; competitive applicants present 3.5+. Up to 64 credits transfer from two-year institutions. Transfer applicants must complete at least 64 units at Pepperdine to receive the degree.
Articulation partners
Santa Monica College · Pierce College · Pepperdine Seaver College accepts CCC IGETC · Moorpark College
Specifics verified 2026-05-18 from the school's own admissions page + Common App. Always confirm current-year details directly on the school site before applying.
If you're on the bubble
Pepperdine is a target for applicants in the 3.5+ GPA range who want a Christian private with a Malibu campus and strong international programs. The financial decision depends on institutional merit plus federal aid plus realistic Malibu living expenses.
Next steps
Last updated: November 2025. Acceptance rate and cost data refreshed nightly from college reporting.