Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Pacific Lutheran University vs University of Puget Sound

Tacoma, WA · Tacoma, WA · Source: IPEDS federal database

Pacific Lutheran UniversityUniversity of Puget Sound
Acceptance Rate80.5%76.3%
In-State Tuition$50,964$59,900
Out-of-State Tuition$50,964$59,900
Average Net Price$14,892$26,050
Graduation Rate71.0%68.0%

GradFax Analysis

Pacific Lutheran University accepts 80.5% of applicants. University of Puget Sound accepts 76.3%. Pacific Lutheran University's tuition is $50,964. University of Puget Sound's is $59,900. Pacific Lutheran University is cheaper. Pacific Lutheran University graduates 71% of students in 6 years. University of Puget Sound graduates 68%.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Pacific Lutheran University profileUniversity of Puget Sound profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Pacific Lutheran University or University of Puget Sound?

University of Puget Sound. It accepts 76.3% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Pacific Lutheran University or University of Puget Sound more affordable?

Pacific Lutheran University has lower published tuition: $50,964 versus $59,900. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Pacific Lutheran University: 71% of students finish in 6 years. University of Puget Sound is at 68%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Pacific Lutheran University vs University of Puget Sound: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax