Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Pepperdine University vs University of San Diego

Malibu, CA · San Diego, CA · Source: IPEDS federal database

Pepperdine UniversityUniversity of San Diego
Acceptance Rate49.9%46.7%
In-State Tuition$66,742$56,444
Out-of-State Tuition$66,742$56,444
Average Net Price$31,521$20,468
Graduation Rate85.0%82.0%

GradFax Analysis

Pepperdine University accepts 49.9% of applicants. University of San Diego accepts 46.7%. Pepperdine University's tuition is $66,742. University of San Diego's is $56,444. University of San Diego is cheaper. Pepperdine University graduates 85% of students in 6 years. University of San Diego graduates 82%.

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 →Pepperdine University profileUniversity of San Diego profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Pepperdine University or University of San Diego?

University of San Diego. It accepts 46.7% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Pepperdine University or University of San Diego more affordable?

University of San Diego has lower published tuition: $56,444 versus $66,742. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Pepperdine University: 85% of students finish in 6 years. University of San Diego is at 82%.

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.

Pepperdine University vs University of San Diego: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax