University of San Diego

Location: San Diego, CA (urban)

Size: 5,702 students

Avg percent need-met: 78%

Acceptance rate: 53%

Middle 50% ACT: 25-31 **Test Blind**

Middle 50% SAT: 1170-1340 **Test Blind**

University of San Diego is a Catholic school that strives to provide a quality liberal arts education that expands a student’s world view and underscores the importance of service to others. They offer a real-world education to solve real-world problems, and professors are accessible. There are many community service and volunteer opportunities. The campus has a laid-back attitude, with the student body largely composed of friendly, upper-class beach lovers. The campus is very residential, with students required to live on-campus their first and second year.

Popular majors / known for: Nursing, Business/Marketing, Biology, Engineering

Academic approach: Liberal arts in the Catholic tradition with a core curriculum

Fun fact / campus tradition: USD offers 5 themed living-learning communities where first-year students live and take classes with other students who share a common interest.

Check out campus photos here!

Religiosity

Affiliation: Roman Catholic

Mission: “The University of San Diego is a Roman Catholic institution committed to advancing academic excellence, expanding liberal and professional knowledge, creating a diverse and inclusive community and preparing leaders who are dedicated to ethical conduct and compassionate service.” Read more

Theological requirements: At least one course in "theological and religious inquiry"

  • USD has a strong focus on service and social justice in the Catholic tradition.

  • Attendance at mass and confession is not required, but there are frequent opportunities for students to worship together on campus.

  • USD offers a variety of faith-based retreats for Catholic and non-Catholic students alike.

  • Religious affiliation/commitment is considered in the application process.

Application Details

RD deadline: December 15th

Early Action deadline: None

Supplemental essays: Yes

Application fee: $55

On Common App: Yes

CSS profile: N/A

Interviews: Considered

School also featured in: Engineering

Page last updated: May 2022