Seattle University logo

Seattle University

Seattle, WA Private ยท Urban Est. 1891 www.seattleu.edu
Accept Rate
76.05%
Grad Rate
73.8%
Enrollment
4,117
Avg SAT
1266
Tuition
$54,285
Median Salary
$75,272
Overall Grade
C
B
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
A+
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Seattle University offers a vibrant, Jesuit-influenced urban campus experience where social justice and community engagement are woven into daily life. The campus feels like a tight-knit, intellectually curious community situated in the heart of a bustling, innovative city. Students are passionate, socially conscious, and driven to make a tangible impact.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

76.05%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 126675th Pctl
11301350
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2875th Pctl
2330
1122436

Admissions Tips

Highlight your commitment to service and social justice in your personal essays, as this aligns perfectly with Seattle University's Jesuit mission. Demonstrate a strong interest in your intended major by mentioning specific programs, faculty, or research centers like the Albers School of Business or the Center for Science and Innovation. Since the university is test-optional, focus on maintaining a strong GPA and submitting a well-crafted application that showcases your unique perspective and community involvement.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1266
40080012001600
School range: 1130โ€“1350

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

Academically, Seattle University is known for its strong programs in Health Professions, Business, and Computer Science, with a curriculum that emphasizes ethical leadership and real-world application. The small class sizes foster a collaborative and discussion-based learning environment, ensuring students receive personalized attention from dedicated faculty. Undergraduates have ample opportunities for hands-on research and internships, leveraging the university's deep connections within Seattle's dynamic industries.

Popular Majors

Health Professions
22.7%
Business & Marketing
17.3%
Biology & Biomedical
8.1%
Computer Science
7.3%
Engineering
6%
Psychology
5.7%
Criminal Justice
5.5%
Communications
4.5%
Visual & Performing Arts
4.4%
Social Sciences
4.3%
English & Literature
2.4%
Public Administration
1.7%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

73.8%
Graduation Rate
84.6%
Retention Rate
4,117
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$54,285
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$34,802
After financial aid
Total Cost
$68,633
Cost of attendance/year
21.6%
Receive Pell Grants
46.1%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Seattle

Student life in Seattle is a blend of campus community and city exploration, with easy access to coffee shops, music venues, and tech hubs. Students often spend weekends exploring Pike Place Market, hiking in nearby mountains, attending concerts, or cheering on local sports teams. The city's vibrant arts scene and diverse food culture provide endless opportunities for off-campus adventures.

Local Rent Check

$2,269 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Seattle
Explore Seattle

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$217,140
$0Est. 4 Years: $217,140

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($75,272):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus is located in the First Hill neighborhood, which is generally considered safe and is heavily patrolled by campus security. Seattle University has its own comprehensive public safety department offering 24/7 patrols, an emergency alert system, and safe ride services for students.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Prime location in Seattle provides unparalleled access to internships and jobs at major tech and healthcare companies.
  • โœ“ Strong, career-focused programs in high-demand fields like Computer Science, Nursing, and Business.
  • โœ“ A tight-knit, mission-driven community with a focus on social justice and service.
  • โœ“ Excellent retention and graduation rates, indicating strong student satisfaction and support.

Cons

  • โœ— High tuition cost, though net price is lower due to aid.
  • โœ— Urban campus may feel smaller and less traditional compared to sprawling university settings.
  • โœ— Seattle's high cost of living can be a financial challenge for students.

Notable Alumni

John Howkins
Award-winning journalist and former executive editor of The Seattle Times.
Mike McGinn
Former Mayor of Seattle, demonstrating the university's influence in local politics.
Sally Jewell
Former CEO of REI and U.S. Secretary of the Interior, a prominent leader in business and conservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seattle University is well-known for its Jesuit Catholic identity, which emphasizes social justice, ethics, and service. It has strong academic programs in Health Professions (especially its nursing school), Business (Albers School of Business and Economics), and Computer Science, all of which benefit from the university's deep integration within the Seattle metropolitan area.

Seattle University has an acceptance rate of approximately 76%, making it moderately selective. While it's not as selective as some elite universities, successful applicants typically have a strong academic record. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1266, and the university also considers essays, extracurriculars, and a commitment to its mission.

Campus life at Seattle University is a mix of a close-knit community feel within a bustling city. About a third of students live on campus in residence halls that foster a strong sense of community. Students are highly engaged, with over 100 student clubs and organizations focused on academics, arts, culture, and service. The university's Jesuit values are reflected in a campus culture that is welcoming, inclusive, and focused on making a difference.

For many students, the investment can be worthwhile. The combination of a strong academic reputation, personalized attention from faculty, and a prime location in a major economic hub leads to excellent career outcomes, with median earnings of $75,272 ten years after graduation. While the sticker price is high, the average net price is significantly lower due to financial aid, and the university's high graduation and retention rates suggest students are well-supported and successful.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Microsoft Amazon Starbucks Providence Health & Services Boeing
Smart Start Score
78

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded 1891
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 4,439
  • In-State Tuition $54,285
  • Zip Code 98122

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 39.3% โ™€ 60.7%

The Money Talk

With an annual tuition of $54,285, the sticker price is high, but the average net price of $34,802 indicates significant financial aid is available for many students. The 10-year median earnings of $75,272 for graduates suggest a strong return on investment, particularly for those entering high-demand fields like tech, business, and healthcare in the Seattle area. For students who receive substantial aid, the degree can be a worthwhile investment in a prosperous career in a high-cost-of-living city.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $54,285
Housing (12 mo) $27,228
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $88,713
With avg financial aid:
$34,802/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.