Pacific Lutheran University (PLU), located in Tacoma, Washington, is a private liberal arts institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), PLU reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 81.6%, based on data from the university’s official admissions resources and historical trends published in the Common Data Set. This rate reflects a moderately selective admissions process, influenced by factors such as the size of the applicant pool, which has remained relatively stable in recent years, and the university’s efforts to attract a diverse student body. PLU maintains transparency in its admissions statistics, regularly updating data through its official website and the Common Data Set, providing prospective students with clear insights into their chances of admission.
Over the past few years, Pacific Lutheran University’s acceptance rate has hovered around 80-85%, indicating a stable level of selectivity compared to other regional liberal arts colleges. While PLU does not exhibit the extreme competitiveness of larger research universities or Ivy League schools, it has seen a slight increase in applications, particularly from international students, which may gradually lower acceptance rates in future cycles. The university’s holistic admissions process, which considers academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and personal essays, ensures a balanced evaluation, though early action applicants often benefit from higher acceptance likelihood. Compared to peer institutions in the Pacific Northwest, such as Whitworth University or Seattle Pacific University, PLU’s selectivity remains moderate, making it an accessible yet respected choice for many students. For the most current data, prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the PLU Admissions website.
