Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Pepperdine University vs University of San Francisco

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

Pepperdine UniversityUniversity of San Francisco
Acceptance Rate49.9%50.8%
In-State Tuition$66,742$58,222
Out-of-State Tuition$66,742$58,222
Average Net Price$31,521$29,434
Graduation Rate85.0%71.0%

GradFax Analysis

Both are competitive to get into. Pepperdine University accepts 49.9% of applicants; University of San Francisco accepts 50.8%. Pepperdine University's tuition is $66,742. University of San Francisco's is $58,222. University of San Francisco is cheaper. Pepperdine University graduates 85% of students in 6 years. University of San Francisco graduates 71%.

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 Francisco profile

Common Questions

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

Pepperdine University. It accepts 49.9% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Pepperdine University or University of San Francisco more affordable?

University of San Francisco has lower published tuition: $58,222 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 Francisco is at 71%.

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 Francisco: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax