Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Point Loma Nazarene University vs Saint Mary's College of California

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

Point Loma Nazarene UniversitySaint Mary's College of California
Acceptance Rate81.8%88.6%
In-State Tuition$43,550$56,134
Out-of-State Tuition$43,550$56,134
Average Net Price$24,825$19,812
Graduation Rate74.0%69.0%

GradFax Analysis

Point Loma Nazarene University accepts 81.8% of applicants. Saint Mary's College of California accepts 88.6%. Point Loma Nazarene University's tuition is $43,550. Saint Mary's College of California's is $56,134. Point Loma Nazarene University is cheaper. Point Loma Nazarene University graduates 74% of students in 6 years. Saint Mary's College of California graduates 69%.

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 →Point Loma Nazarene University profileSaint Mary's College of California profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Point Loma Nazarene University or Saint Mary's College of California?

Point Loma Nazarene University. It accepts 81.8% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Point Loma Nazarene University or Saint Mary's College of California more affordable?

Point Loma Nazarene University has lower published tuition: $43,550 versus $56,134. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Point Loma Nazarene University: 74% of students finish in 6 years. Saint Mary's College of California is at 69%.

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.

Point Loma Nazarene University vs Saint Mary's College of California: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax