Pepperdine University

Malibu, California
www.pepperdine.edu/ 24255 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA, 90263

Pepperdine University Overview

Pepperdine University is a small, private Christian university located in Southern California. It has an undergraduate population of about 3,700 and a total student population of approximately 10,500. Purpose, service, and leadership are at the forefront of the university’s values. Pepperdine University encourages students to embrace those principles as well as Christian values while striving for academic excellence during their time at the school. 

Pepperdine was founded in 1937 by George Pepperdine. He wanted to give students a place for higher education where there was an emphasis on Christian faith and values. Those principles still remain today at Pepperdine. 

The Pepperdine University ranking and the Pepperdine acceptance rate can be confusing for students starting to think about colleges. Our admissions experts at CollegeAdvisor.com can help you navigate the college application process to maximize admissions odds to Pepperdine University. They’ll help you understand the Pepperdine cost and financial aid, and complete the Pepperdine supplemental essays. They’re there to support you and give you the best chances of beating the Pepperdine University acceptance rate. You don’t have to do everything alone. Schedule a free call to talk about your options. 

Pepperdine University Ranking

Pepperdine University ranks highly in a variety of areas. For example, U.S. News listed the Pepperdine University ranking as #49 on their 2022 National Universities list. This makes it a sought after university by many students. . 

International programs also keep the Pepperdine University ranking high amongst study abroad programs. Princeton Review ranked Pepperdine University as #11 on the Most Popular Study Abroad Programs list. The Pepperdine University ranking was also high on U.S. News’ Study Abroad Programs list, coming in at #12. 

However, you might still have questions! What exactly does the Pepperdine ranking mean? Will the Pepperdine University ranking affect the Pepperdine tuition? How does the Pepperdine ranking affect the Pepperdine University acceptance rate? Does the Pepperdine University ranking on these lists influence job opportunities for graduates? 

Read all about what college rankings mean to see how the Pepperdine ranking fits into your future plans. 

You might also be thinking about whether Pepperdine is your dream school. The Pepperdine University acceptance rate and Pepperdine tuition are important factors in the decision process. But, more importantly, do you love it? Check out this article about choosing your dream school. 

As you look at the Pepperdine University ranking, remember that rankings aren’t the most important factor when building a college list. The Pepperdine ranking means that the Pepperdine University acceptance rate will probably be low. However, when it comes to finding the right school, “fit” is the most important factor, not the Pepperdine ranking. The Pepperdine University ranking isn’t going to tell you how you will feel on campus. 

To figure out if the school is for you, worry less about the Pepperdine ranking and more about the academics and campus life. The Pepperdine University tuition will also be an important factor in your final decision. 

Where is Pepperdine?

Pepperdine’s location is one factor keeping the school popular with students and the Pepperdine University ranking high. 

So, where is Pepperdine and why are students nationwide aiming to beat the Pepperdine University acceptance rate to live there? Pepperdine is located in Malibu. The Pepperdine campus is just 29 miles from downtown LA. 

However, possibly the most appealing thing about Pepperdine University, that keeps Pepperdine ranking high in location, is its breath-taking view of the Pacific coast. 

Bestcollegereviews.com places the Pepperdine University ranking at #19 on their Most Beautiful College Campuses list. The Pepperdine ranking is equally impressive on Princeton Review’s Most Beautiful Campus list – the Pepperdine campus is in the top 20. 

The Malibu Pepperdine campus location places the Pepperdine University ranking high when it comes to location. However, the Malibu Pepperdine campus isn’t the only place that Pepperdine is located. Pepperdine is also located in Calabasas, Irvine, and West LA. These Pepperdine University locations offer other areas of study and graduate programs. 

As an incoming freshman, you will attend Seaver College, which is the Malibu Pepperdine campus. Students can also take advantage of the Pepperdine University international locations: Argentina, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, and the UK. 

Pepperdine University Admissions

Acceptance Rate 53%
Acceptance Deadline January 15

Pepperdine University has an undergraduate Pepperdine enrollment of approximately 3,700 and the total Pepperdine enrollment (including graduate students) is about 10,500. In terms of size, Pepperdine University is a small, private school. Pepperdine admissions is selective in order to keep the Pepperdine enrollment small. 

Pepperdine admissions

It’s no secret that the Pepperdine campus is an ideal location for many. The beautiful Pepperdine campus, Pepperdine University values and the school’s academic rigor, has made Pepperdine admissions increasingly selective over the years. This has affected the Pepperdine acceptance rate. 

Pepperdine University admissions considers a number of factors when reviewing a student’s Pepperdine application. However, according to U.S. News, meeting (even exceeding) the Pepperdine GPA requirements is one of the most important factors when it comes to Pepperdine University admission

Things like letters of recommendation and essays are great ways to stand out in the Pepperdine University admissions process, especially if you’re worried about your grades. Make sure to ask for college recommendation letters early. Finally, remember that it’s never too soon to start thinking about essay topics

Pepperdine acceptance rate

Pepperdine admissions received almost 13,000 applications in fall 2021. Of those, Pepperdine admissions enrolled only 1,200 students. Therefore, Pepperdine University has a ‘more selective’ Pepperdine acceptance rate. 

The Pepperdine acceptance rate is 53%. You should do everything possible to beat the Pepperdine acceptance rate. In particular, you should strive to exceed the Pepperdine GPA requirements and the Pepperdine SAT requirements.

Pepperdine application

Want to beat the Pepperdine acceptance rate and become a part of the undergraduate Pepperdine enrollment? This is only possible if you meet the Pepperdine application requirements and deadlines. 

Firstly, it’s most important to know that you complete the Pepperdine University application using the Common App. You’ll need to pay the application fee and complete the entire application (including the Common App essays and Pepperdine supplemental essays). You then send in your official high school transcripts. The Pepperdine application also requires an academic letter of recommendation

Supplemental essays are an important part of the Pepperdine University application. They can strengthen your application if you’re worried about the Pepperdine GPA requirements and Pepperdine SAT requirements. Start them early so you have plenty of time to impress Pepperdine admissions and beat the Pepperdine acceptance rate. Make sure you write unique and well-crafted Pepperdine supplemental essay responses.

The Pepperdine application deadline for regular decision is January 15th. Meanwhile, the Pepperdine application deadline for early action is November 1st. However, these deadlines are subject to change each year. So make sure you double check the Pepperdine admissions website for the more accurate Pepperdine application deadlines.

In order to beat the Pepperdine University acceptance rate, make sure you meet all of the Pepperdine University application requirements. Also, check out some tips on how to get into Pepperdine from Pepperdine admissions.

Finally, keep in mind that the Pepperdine application will vary depending on which school you’re applying to. Seaver College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, and Graziadio Business School have different requirements. Double check each for final Pepperdine application requirements. 

Pepperdine SAT

From the Fall 2021 to Fall 2023 application periods, there are no Pepperdine SAT requirements. In other words, standardized test scores are optional on the Pepperdine application during this period.

However, submitting high test scores can help you to beat the competitive Pepperdine acceptance rate. So, what are the average Pepperdine SAT scores? In Fall 2021, accepted students (who chose to submit scores) had an SAT average of 1310-1460

While there are currently no Pepperdine SAT requirements, it would be wise to submit Pepperdine SAT scores if you fall within or above that range. High scores could give you an edge when trying to beat the Pepperdine acceptance rate. 

On the other hand, if your scores fall below 1310, then take advantage of the lack of Pepperdine SAT requirements and don’t submit your scores.  

Pepperdine GPA

We know that Pepperdine admissions values a student’s GPA highly in the Pepperdine admissions process. Therefore, to beat the Pepperdine acceptance rate, it’s useful to know the Pepperdine GPA requirements. 

Officially, there are no specified Pepperdine GPA requirements. However, we do know the average GPA of accepted students in Fall 2021. The average unweighted Pepperdine GPA of admitted students was between 3.69-3.96. We know the Pepperdine acceptance rate is competitive and that Pepperdine admissions values a student’s GPA over other factors. Therefore, aim to fall in that range (or above) when trying to meet the unofficial Pepperdine GPA requirements. 

High grades and test scores is a good way to beat the Pepperdine acceptance rate. However, you can still impress admissions through your essays and by creating a compelling narrative. Don’t be intimidated by the 42% Pepperdine University acceptance rate! 

Still wondering about GPA and the admissions process? Read this article to learn all about average GPA requirements for college. This will help you understand the unofficial Pepperdine GPA requirements.

Pepperdine University Cost

When working on your Pepperdine application, aiming to beat the Pepperdine acceptance rate should be the top priority. However, it’s important to understand the Pepperdine cost of attendance. Knowing the Pepperdine tuition is essential when it comes to applying for Pepperdine financial aid and Pepperdine scholarships. 

The Pepperdine tuition and general Pepperdine cost may seem high. But remember that for whatever schools you apply to, there are options, such as financial aid, university scholarships, or outside scholarships. Therefore, don’t let the initial Pepperdine University tuition keep you from applying. Focus on beating the Pepperdine acceptance rate first.

Pepperdine tuition

The Pepperdine tuition for the 2021-2022 year is $59,450. The Pepperdine University tuition only covers the cost of classes. The direct Pepperdine cost, which includes Pepperdine tuition, room and board, and a campus life fee, is $76,402. The total Pepperdine cost of attendance, including room and board, books, campus fee, loan fee, transportation, and personal expenses is $80,220. If you live at home, the Pepperdine cost is less. 

Compared to other universities, the Pepperdine University tuition and the Pepperdine cost in general is high. However, there are options when it comes to the Pepperdine tuition and Pepperdine cost of attendance. If the Pepperdine tuition is a concern for you, make applying for Pepperdine financial aid and Pepperdine scholarships a more central part of the Pepperdine application. 

Pepperdine financial aid

The Pepperdine tuition of almost $60,000 doesn’t factor in Pepperdine financial aid and Pepperdine scholarships. Pepperdine University offers need based aid to help students afford the Pepperdine University tuition.

Firstly, you can figure out your estimated Pepperdine cost through the Pepperdine University net price calculator. You’ll answer a series of questions and get an estimate on the Pepperdine financial aid package that the school would probably offer you. When it comes to college planning, it’s crucial to know what the Pepperdine cost is after factoring in Pepperdine financial aid. This will give you a much better idea of what you will actually pay for your Pepperdine University tuition.

According to U.S. News, the average need-based Pepperdine financial aid offered to incoming freshmen is $45,066. Furthermore, about 66% of incoming freshmen in fall 2019 received aid to help with the Pepperdine University tuition costs. Pepperdine financial aid was able to meet about 75% of incoming students’ financial needs.

To apply for Pepperdine financial aid, you need to complete the FAFSA application. Deadlines will vary based on your state and the specific university. For this reason, check the FAFSA website for the most up to date deadlines. 

In short, while the initial Pepperdine tuition seems high, remember to work out the Pepperdine cost after financial aid and scholarships – it will be less than the sticker price!

Pepperdine scholarships

In addition to Pepperdine financial aid, the cost of Pepperdine University tuition can also be offset by merit based scholarships. Pepperdine scholarships differ from Pepperdine financial aid since they aren’t need-based. The Pepperdine scholarships are awarded to students for outstanding academic achievement or other special talents. They’re a great way to help cover the Pepperdine University tuition.

U.S. News reported that the average merit-based Pepperdine scholarship for first year students is $17,200. A scholarship like that would drop your Pepperdine tuition cost to $42,250. 

You can also search for merit-based scholarships from outside organizations. With high academic achievement, it’s possible to receive both a Pepperdine scholarship and other merit based scholarships to help cover the Pepperdine tuition. 

Hoping to receive a merit-based scholarship to assist in covering the Pepperdine tuition? Then you’ll want to meet (and ideally exceed) the assumed Pepperdine GPA requirements and Pepperdine SAT requirements. Not only are grades important in beating the Pepperdine acceptance rate, but also in gaining scholarships to offset the Pepperdine tuition. Therefore, think early on in your high school career about how to make yourself an academically competitive candidate for Pepperdine scholarships. 

Before you start exploring Pepperdine majors, check out some quick facts about merit-based scholarships.

Average Cost* $38,846
Average Total Aid Awarded $45,541
Students Receiving Financial Aid 55%
*Average cost after financial aid for students receiving grant or scholarship aid, as reported by the college.

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Pepperdine University Academics

Student Faculty Ratio 13:1

Pepperdine University Majors

There’s an ample number of Pepperdine majors – Pepperdine students have endless options when it comes to areas of study! Seaver College (Pepperdine’s main campus and college) offers 47 majors and 47 minors in the liberal arts. All Pepperdine majors integrate Christian world views into their curriculum. 

The undergraduate Pepperdine enrollment at Seaver College in Malibu is about 3,000 students. Pepperdine students enjoy holistic learning and personalized attention with the student to faculty ratio 13:1. 

If that doesn’t motivate you to beat the Pepperdine University acceptance rate, perhaps the enriching study abroad programmes for Pepperdine students will! With Pepperdine ranking as a top institution for study abroad, students can take international programs while studying a variety of majors. 

Pepperdine Majors

The Pepperdine campus in Malibu (the most popular Pepperdine campus) is home to Seaver College where Pepperdine students have a variety of study options. While there are lots of different Pepperdine majors, U.S. News has ranked the ten most popular Pepperdine majors. 

Top 10 Pepperdine majors: 

  1. Business, Management, Marketing
  2. Communication and Journalism
  3. Social Sciences
  4. Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies
  5. Psychology
  6. Parks, Recreation, Leisure, Fitness, and Kinesiology
  7. Visual and Performing Arts
  8. Biological and Biomedical Sciences
  9. English Language and Literature/Letters
  10. Philosophy and Religious Studies

Business tops the chart as one of the most popular Pepperdine majors. A business major is flexible and practical – so it’s a popular choice not only at the Pepperdine campus but also at many campuses nationwide. 

Students who graduate from Pepperdine University with a business major will have a strong liberal arts foundation. They can join the workforce or continue on to graduate study. 76% of business majors at Pepperdine are employed and 16% are in graduate school. 

Business majors also complete a Service Leadership Project. The project combines the most important Pepperdine values with academic studies. In addition, business majors have access to a variety of internship opportunities. As a result, they gain real world experience before heading into the workforce. 

Communication studies is another one of the popular Pepperdine majors. Students explore verbal and nonverbal communication amongst humans. Similarly to  other Pepperdine majors, the communication major at Pepperdine campus places a strong emphasis on Christian values. 

Just like business majors, students who take communication majors have many internship opportunities in a variety of areas: television, journalism, radio, etc. 

Students studying communication also take part in experiential learning. Through these programs, they gain real world experience in their intended areas of study. For example, communications majors may create their own television program in the Pepperdine campus CCB studios. It’s a unique and interesting way to get a taste of the workforce while still studying. 

Another popular major and minor at Pepperdine campus, Seaver College, is Art. Students can combine an Art major with a minor in multimedia design or a secondary teaching credential. This broadens their employment opportunities after graduation. 

Art majors can participate in Art Club, where majors of every kind who are interested in art are welcome. Students studying art will also take part in an art service learning project. They’ll connect with the local community and extend their knowledge with a mentorship program for high school students. Art majors are encouraged to take advantage of the study abroad program in Florence, Italy as well. 

Regardless of what you study, Pepperdine University will encourage you to use internships to enhance your learning. A Career Service is available to all Pepperdine students. They can support you in your career exploration and internship opportunities. 

Furthermore, students can expand their study options by double majoring or adding a minor to their major. This will give you even more career opportunities after graduation. If you’re not sure of what you’d like to study, Pepperdine’s liberal arts education gives you plenty of time to explore your options. You can take your time choosing your Pepperdine majors. Take a variety of courses while completing your general requirements freshman and sophomore year. Then, declare your Pepperdine majors by your junior year. 

If the Pepperdine majors have you excited, start thinking about how to beat the Pepperdine acceptance rate early on. Use the exciting study opportunities as motivation to meet or exceed the high unofficial Pepperdine GPA requirements and Pepperdine SAT requirements.

Most Popular Majors
  • Business
  • Public Relations
  • Psychology
  • Kinesiology and Exercise Science
  • Economics
  • Advertising
  • Political Science and Government
  • International Studies
  • International Business
  • Biology

Pepperdine University Online

Offers Online Courses Yes

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Pepperdine University Students

The undergraduate Pepperdine enrollment at the Malibu Pepperdine campus is approximately 3,700. Students who make up the Pepperdine enrollment enjoy taking classes in the Pepperdine campus – one of the most beautiful campuses in the nation. The Pepperdine campus is nestled among the Santa Monica mountains in Malibu, with a view overlooking the Pacific coast. 

With around 13,000 applicants last year, this bucolic location for liberal arts studies appeals to many students. It’s no wonder the Pepperdine acceptance rate is 53%.

The Christian values upon which the university was founded are an important part of life and study at Pepperdine University. Pepperdine asks students to attend 14 spiritual events per semester and take at least three religious courses while enrolled. 

Pepperdine enrollment

The Pepperdine campus offers students many options when it comes to student life. Students can take part in clubs, sports, and other activities on campus. They are encouraged to explore their spirituality – the Pepperdine campus offers many different opportunities to do so. While Christian values are at the forefront, students of all religious backgrounds are welcome at Pepperdine University. 

Students in the undergraduate Pepperdine enrollment are also active in the community. They connect with the local community and develop their leadership skills through community service which Pepperdine University encourages. 

Pepperdine values a holistic learning experience for their students. The student health center at Pepperdine supports students’  wellness and healthy lifestyles. From personal fitness to counseling, Pepperdine gives students the tools to lead a well-rounded and healthy life. 

Organizations and student clubs are a great way for new students to immerse themselves in the Pepperdine campus culture. There’s something for everyone at Pepperdine – student government, Greek life, school radio and singing in Gospel choir, to name just a few! In short, there are plenty of opportunities to explore your interests, get involved, and build your community on Pepperdine campus. 

You may want to know what the statistics are on the undergraduate Pepperdine enrollment who beat the Pepperdine acceptance rate. 

Fast facts on the student demographic making up the Pepperdine enrollment in fall 2020: 

  • 58% Male, 42% Female
  • California students made up 54% of the student body.
  • 43% of international students were from China. 
  • The majority of students (48%) identified their ethnicity as white. 15% of the student population identified as Hispanic or Latino, 12% Asian, and 5% Black or African American. 
  • 53% of undergraduates identified their religious affiliation as Christian. 

The Office of Intercultural Affairs focuses on promoting a respectful, inclusive, and diverse community on and off campus. ICA supports marginalized students, advocating for inclusion, justice, and equality.

Full-Time Undergrad Enrollment 3,708
Part-Time Undergraduates 291

Pepperdine University Advisors

CollegeAdvisor.com has an expert advising network to help you beat the Pepperdine University acceptance rate and make Pepperdine enrollment. Applying to college and meeting the unofficial Pepperdine GPA requirements or Pepperdine SAT requirements can be stressful. 

Our experts can help you to navigate things like the Pepperdine supplemental essays, Pepperdine scholarships, Pepperdine financial aid, and the Pepperdine application in general. Getting support in the Pepperdine application can help you to actually enjoy the application process, rather than only stressing about things like the Pepperdine acceptance rate.

Many of the advisors at CollegeAdvisor.com have successfully applied to Ivy League schools. Therefore, they know exactly how to compete and what it takes to get into some of the most selective universities in the nation. 

Check out Majo’s unique story in our Advisor Spotlight. Majo, a Harvard graduate, is one of our advisors who loves helping students through the application process. She relishes the opportunity to give students the tips and guidance she wishes she had. She especially loves assisting students with their personal narrative, using storyboards on essays and translating important life experiences into a competitive candidate profile. 

Once you finish the Pepperdine application, impress Pepperdine admissions, and become a Pepperdine University student, you’ll gain access to the Pepperdine campus academic advisors. They’ll help you with everything from planning your schedule to choosing a major. The advisors want to help you achieve your academic goals and realize your full potential at Pepperdine.

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Education Consultant with Under/Graduate specialized experience.

I have graduated from multiple institutions both in the US and abroad. My experience extends to over 15 years of educational instruction, leadership, investment, research and administrative roles. My career allowed me to experience different perspectives of education, so I believe in wholesomeness and focus when I deal with my clients. Within my publications and books, you will find that I try my best to advise people to make decisions that increase their happiness as distressed souls are usually wearing the wrong shoes or walking the wrong paths because of pressure. My strength is the ability to solve my clients' problems and help them attain their goals. Would you like me to help you make your dream(s) come true? Book a session - let's chat!

Also Accepted to

University of California – Los Angeles

The college admission process is hard and overwhelming. And this hasn’t changed from when I was a high school student applying to colleges 20 years ago to being a college counselor for over 15 years. The truth is that students and their families need as much support to successfully navigate through the system to make the process easier and less stressful. My experience in high school was what drew me into college advising. I graduated from UCLA with my B.A. in Psychology. As a new college graduate, I knew I wanted to help students transition to college more smoothly than I did after I graduated as salutatorian of my high school class. Although I had migrated to the U.S. in the 5th grade, I was clueless about the college admission process in high school. My parents as immigrants spoke highly of education being the pathway to freedom but were also unfamiliar with the college process in the U.S. It wasn’t until the 11th grade when I overheard my classmates talking about applying to their ideal colleges and taking the SAT and ACT exams that I found out that you had to apply to college before you could be accepted. This led to visiting my college counselor for the first time and spending sleepless nights studying for the SAT, writing personal statements and essays for scholarships like the Gates Millennium Scholarship. I ended up applying to UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC San Diego, UC Santa Barbara, UC Santa Cruz, UC Irvine, Cal State Northridge, and Cal State Los Angeles and got accepted to all of them to my surprise. I also got the Gates Millennium Scholarship! I have worked with students who have received admissions to the UCs, USC, LMU, Boston University, Stanford, Chapman University, American University, Pomona College majoring in the Arts and Humanities, Business, Finance, Public Health, Biology, Chemistry, Pre-Med, Computer Science, and Engineering, to name a few. I am passionate about supporting students through the college admission process and helping them to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Besides having academic rigor, I love helping students identify their strengths and illuminate the uniqueness of who they are and their story.

Also Accepted to

uc santa cruz

I am a proud alum of Rollins College, where I majored in International Business with minors in music and Spanish. After graduation, I decided to work in the Office of Admissions for my alma mater. I specifically worked with students in the greater Orlando area as well as CT and IL. Rollins provided me with the experience and mentorship of understanding how the admissions process works for a liberal arts college. I would work with students and their families to explain the benefits of attending a smaller institution as well as expanding on my academic, cultural, and social experiences as a student myself. I found myself loving the work I was doing, especially connecting with students to help make their college dreams a reality. I actively reviewed Early Decision and Regular Decision applications where I would take and present students to the Admission Committee for revival.

The relationships I built on the road eventually led me transferring to Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN. I worked as an Admissions Officer at this highly selective University for 3+ years where I learned what it takes to get into a top 15 University. In this role, I worked with students and families across CA, specifically Los Angeles and San Francisco as well as students from OR, WA, and UT. Once again, I found myself loving the experience of helping students realize they have the potential to apply and be admitted to a selective institution like Vanderbilt. In this role, I focused on Early Decision rounds 1 & 2 as well as Regular Decision and Quest Bridge applications where I would present students to the Admission Committee. Helping students tell their story was the best part of the job.

As education has always been a priority for me in my life, I decided to go back to school for my MBA. I was fortunate enough to attend USC Marshall School of Business where I specialized in marketing. I now work for Mattel here in El Segundo, CA and have been loving my new career in sunny California! Although I am no longer working in Admissions for a university, I am so excited to be a part of CollegeAdvisor, where I look forward to working with students and families to reach their higher education goals.

Pepperdine University Related Essay Guides

Here at CollegeAdvisor, we know that essay writing can often be one of the most stressful parts of the application process. 

You’ll complete the Pepperdine application via the Common Application. In addition to the Common App essay, you’ll also have to complete the Pepperdine supplemental essays. 

CollegeAdvisor provides a number of free resources such as webinars and essay guides. The essay guides can be a great help when working on your Pepperdine application. The Pepperdine acceptance rate is 53%, which makes it a more competitive school. Therefore, in addition to meeting the assumed high Pepperdine SAT requirements and Pepperdine GPA requirements, the essay is an important part of standing out to Pepperdine admissions. 

Pepperdine supplemental essays

The Pepperdine application actually only has one supplemental essay for students to respond to. Because there is only one essay, focus on giving it your best effort and full attention. You’ve got one essay to impress Pepperdine admissions and potentially become a part of the undergraduate Pepperdine enrollment. 

Here’s the Pepperdine supplemental essay prompt:

Pepperdine is a Christian university where all are welcomed and encouraged to challenge each other in the pursuit of truth. Students, faculty, and staff members from all backgrounds participate in conversations of faith inside and outside of the classroom. Considering that Pepperdine is a Christian university, why are you interested in attending and how would you contribute to conversations of faith on campus? (300-500 words)

Pepperdine admissions wants to know “why Pepperdine?” We know that Christian values are a huge part of the Pepperdine campus. You’ll want to think about how faith influences your daily life. How does that connect to your goals? How would you participate in the spiritual life on campus?

Answer the supplemental essay authentically, but do your research. Learn about the Pepperdine campus so you can imagine how you would contribute to it. Connect it all to your future goals. What will you gain from the strong Christian values at Pepperdine? And most importantly, what will you give back to the Pepperdine community during your time there?

Finally, check out our full essay guides below for more tips on how to approach the Pepperdine application and essay.

Not sure how to approach the Pepperdine essay prompts? With tips from a Harvard graduate, CollegeAdvisor.com’s guide to the Pepperdine supplemental essays will give you the tools to write Pepperdine […]

Pepperdine University Merit-Based Scholarships

Pepperdine University Related Client Success Stories

The Pepperdine ranking is high – for this reason, you should seek guidance throughout the Pepperdine application  to help beat the Pepperdine acceptance rate. Many students work with advisors to navigate the often stressful application process. Advisors keep students motivated and help them to best craft their applications. 

Joshua, a CollegeAdvisor client, enlisted the help of a college advisor through the CollegeAdvisor Scholars Program. He applied as a senior and was accepted to the Scholars Program. The Scholars program accepts 100 high school students each year and provides free admission advice to those in financial need. 

The hardest part for Joshua was showing his personality in his application. His advisor guided him through this and Joshua was proud that he could be authentic. Not only did he beat the Pepperdine acceptance rate, but also he received Pepperdine financial aid and a Pepperdine scholarship that helped to offset the Pepperdine University tuition. 

Joshua is taking full advantage of the Pepperdine majors. He plans to double major in Political Science and Business Administration. He’s excited to live and study on the beautiful Pepperdine campus. 

Sebastian and Ashby Whitaker, who worked with CollegeAdvisor throughout admissions – have similar success stories. While Sebastian and Ashby both decided to attend Notre Dame, Ashby received acceptance from Pepperdine University, as well as many other competitive schools.

Pepperdine University Related Blog Posts

Students often get caught up in things like the Pepperdine acceptance rate, Pepperdine SAT requirements, and Pepperdine GPA requirements. But it’s equally important to think about what life would really be like at Pepperdine University. 

So, what’s campus life like? Firstly, you can read all about it on the website. It can also be especially useful to read about life at Pepperdine on the Pepperdine University blogThis will give you all the details about the Pepperdine application and life as a student on Pepperdine campus.

University blogs are a great way to learn about the topics that you’re curious about. They’ll also get you excited about the college process. Therefore, instead of stressing about the Pepperdine acceptance rate, take a few minutes to read a blog and get some motivation. 

CollegeAdvisor offers free resources to help with the college application process too. You can take advantage of the essay guides and webinars, but there are also articles on a variety of topics relevant to students applying to college. 

For example, are you a first generation college student? If so, you’re not alone. About 50% of college students identify as first generation. 

So far, we’ve spoken a lot about the Pepperdine application process. But what happens when you’re actually accepted to Pepperdine University? Learn all about college acceptance letters so you’re prepared. 

And what about when you make the Pepperdine enrollment? When do you have to make a final decision on where to attend college? The college enrollment process can be confusing – learn all the details about it so that you’re prepared when Pepperdine University accepts you!

Our resources will guide you through the Pepperdine University application process. Furthermore, CollegeAdvisor’s expert advisors can give you personalized, one-on-one advice to help you get into the college of your dreams! 

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Pepperdine University Campus Videos