If you’re reading this, you’re likely wondering whether or not your child has a shot at getting into Pepperdine University. While there’s no copy-and-paste format for a successful application to Pepperdine (or to any school, for that matter), we’re going to dive into some of the features that unite the students who gain admission to Pepperdine University. But first, let’s look at what sets Pepperdine apart from other schools.

About Pepperdine University 

Pepperdine is located in Malibu, California, not exactly a shabby place to spend four years. Pepperdine is a Christian university, and touts its strong spiritual life on campus as one of its defining features. With only around 3,500 undergraduates, Pepperdine is a small school. Its campus, located right along the Pacific Ocean with waves to surf and sunsets to paint, is another selling point. 

Pepperdine’s acceptance rate is 67%, meaning it’s not what we at Ivy Coach consider a competitive school. Still, with its strong defining features, it’s a great choice for students who know that they want Christianity to be a pillar of their education. 

Pepperdine University Admissions Requirements

Obviously, GPA, standardized testing scores, and extracurricular achievements are the key components of a successful application to Pepperdine University and to any school. That being said, what do these components actually look like for Pepperdine University admits? Without further ado, let’s dive in!

What Kind of GPA Is Necessary To Get Into Pepperdine?

The following is the GPA breakdown of the Pepperdine Class of 2028 (the most recently available data we have): 

GPA	Percent of Pepperdine Class of 2028 (All Enrolled Students)
Percent who had GPA of 4.0	9%
Percent who had GPA between 3.75 and 3.99	29%
Percent who had GPA between 3.50 and 3.74	31%
Percent who had GPA between 3.25 and 3.49	19%
Percent who had GPA between 3.00 and 3.24	10%
Percent who had GPA between 2.50 and 2.99	3%
Percent who had GPA between 2.0 and 2.49	Not Reported
Percent who had GPA between 1.0 and 1.99	Not Reported
Percent who had GPA below 1.0	Not Reported

What Kind of SAT or ACT Scores Are Needed to Get Into Pepperdine University?  

The average SAT score for the Pepperdine University Class of 2028 was a 1370, and the average ACT score was a 31. Though Pepperdine is test-optional, we at Ivy Coach believe that not submitting test scores can only ever hurt an applicant’s chances, even to supposedly test-optional schools. 

What Classes Do Students Need to Take to Get Into Pepperdine?

While Pepperdine University does not explicitly state any minimum high school course preparation for applicants, we at Ivy Coach know that colleges like Pepperdine University want to see students excelling in each core subject (English, history, math, science, and foreign language) all four years of high school. In fact, they expect to see five years for foreign language since most students begin their first level of foreign language in eighth grade.

What Kinds of Extracurriculars Does Pepperdine University Like To See?

We’re going to clear up a common misunderstanding: colleges are not looking for well-rounded students. They’re looking for a well-rounded student body comprised of students who are each singularly talented. 

In terms of extracurriculars, that means Pepperdine University is looking for depth over breadth. If you’re a member of the debate team, the robotics team, the field hockey team, and the drama department…well, then, you’re merely a member of those groups. You don’t stand out in any of these pursuits. Pepperdine University would much rather accept a nationally ranked debate champ than a kid who spent an hour or two on debate a week because he spent the rest forgetting Shakespeare lines and fumbling the ball in football practice. 

Pepperdine University Application Requirements

Pepperdine University accepts the Common App. Pepperdine asks for one letter of recommendation. They ask the following supplemental question: 

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)

Who Should Students Ask For Letters of Recommendation For Pepperdine University? 

Pepperdine University applicants should ask a junior year teacher in a core subject. Obviously, the applicant should have a good relationship with the teacher or at least have performed well in their class. In addition, the recommender’s subject area should be related to the student’s hook: if a student’s singular hook is studying fruit fly DNA, it wouldn’t make sense if their recommenders were their History or English teacher.

Does Pepperdine Require an Interview? 

Pepperdine University does not require an interview, and, in fact, they don’t even offer one!

What Are Pepperdine University’s Application Deadlines? 

Early Action and Early Decision  applications to Pepperdine University are due November 1. Regular Decision applications are due January 15. 

How Ivy Coach Helps Students Get Into Pepperdine

If you’re interested in discerning if your child has a shot of getting into Pepperdine University, we recommend setting up Ivy Coach’s Strategy Session. Not only will you find out if your child has a chance of getting into Pepperdine University, but you’ll receive a game plan of how your child can optimize their admission to the best school possible.