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California Lutheran University

Thousand Oaks, California · Private (nonprofit)

May 1Application deadline

FindU Grade

AValue
N/ACampus
A-Academics
CAdmissions
A-Student Life
A-Overall

About

California Lutheran University is located in Thousand Oaks, California. It is a private (nonprofit) institution. The university enrolls approximately 2,374 students.

callutheran.edu
Hispanic-Serving

Cost and aid

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$50,670
Out-of-state tuition$50,670
Room & board$17,734
Avg aid package$36,687
Students receiving aid30%
Pell grant recipients30%

California Lutheran University is recognized as a Top 10 Best Value School among regional universities in the West by U.S. News & World Report. While the tuition is approximately $51,750, the average total aid awarded is $36,687, and 100% of students receive financial aid. The university also offers a "4 to Finish" guarantee, ensuring students graduate in four years or the university will pay for the remaining classes.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%1134–1320
4001600
ACT · middle 50%23–29
136

Application info

Acceptance rate89%
Average GPA3.73
Student–faculty ratio13:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$25

Application dates

Regular DecisionMay 1

California Lutheran University has an acceptance rate of 89%, indicating a moderately competitive admission process. The university considers SAT/ACT scores but does not require them, and a high school GPA is required. The application fee is $25, and the university accepts the Common App.

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Academics

Graduation rate74%
Retention rate81%
Student–faculty ratio13:1
Full-time faculty100%

California Lutheran University offers a dedicated and accomplished faculty who work with small classes of undergraduate and graduate students. The university fosters an open-minded environment, encouraging students to grow as individuals while pursuing their passions. With an average class size of 16 students, the university ensures personalized attention and support from professors.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$68,712
Job placement rate93%
Earn more than HS grad78%
Economic mobility123%
Loan default (3 yr)3%
Loan repayment (3 yr)71%

Cal Lutheran boasts impressive career outcomes, with 94% of graduates finding employment or enrolling in graduate school within nine months of graduation. The Career Services team is available to students from the moment they step on campus, providing resources and guidance. Graduates are well-prepared for the next step with a strong resumé and valuable contacts.

Student life

Demographics

Small School
2,374Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

BalancedGender ratio
Female 54%Male 46%
41% HispanicRacial diversity
Hispanic 41%White 36%Asian 5%Black 4%Other 13%
Campus housingYes

Campus life

Check out some of our student clubs✨ #callutheran #studentlife #college #fyp #student

@callutheran

Rainy days on campus 🌧️🍂 #callutheran #rain #college #fyp

@callutheran

Get ready with President Nunes for his inauguration ✨ #callutheran #GRWM #president #fyp #college

@callutheran

+7 moreWatch every campus video. FreeShow me all

Cal Lutheran provides a vibrant campus culture with over 60 clubs and student organizations. The university is located in Thousand Oaks, offering a blend of city, beach, and mountain experiences. The campus is inclusive, welcoming students from more than 38 countries and a wide variety of faiths.

Student reviews

Professors

Current Student

Cal Lutheran is an excellent university: its small size allows for a personal and flexible education, while still retaining a wide breadth of academic offerings and opportunities. The professors are excellent and accessible, making the school great for developing professional connections and preparing for graduate studies. CLU provided the opportunity, career guidance, and flexibility for me to intern for 3 of my 4 years on campus, which led me to a full-time job straight out of college.

Current Student

I have had an overall good experience at Cal Lutheran! As a double major in Film & TV and Theatre, I think the academic departments have a little bit of work to do, but for the most part I have been happy with my professors and classes. I think there are many great events and work opportunities which is great to get involved as well! The PA program has specifically been a highlight for me!

Campus and vibes

Current Student

It’s a great school! People are welcoming, the staff and professors are friendly. They are helpful when it comes to finding and giving resources.

About California Lutheran University

California Lutheran University prioritizes the safety and security of its students, with an overall safety grade of A-. The university implements security measures in on-campus housing facilities and provides campus safety services to address any concerns. The campus is considered relatively safe compared to other universities in the region.

The University Honors Program (UHP) at Cal Lutheran provides enhanced educational opportunities for academically motivated students. The program challenges students to grapple with deeper questions of life, identity, and purpose within a global community. Students who complete the program and maintain a CLU GPA of 3.5 or higher will receive University Honors with Distinction upon graduation.

California Lutheran University welcomes students from 67 countries, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university offers language support services, on-campus housing options, and various scholarships and grants for international students. CLU is designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution, reflecting its commitment to supporting students from diverse backgrounds.

Endowment$133,747,441
Avg faculty salary$125,556

California Lutheran University FAQ

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