Pacific Lutheran University and Washington State University are frequently compared when students or parents prepare college admissions. PLU is a four-year, private (not-for-profit) school located in Tacoma, WA and Washington State is a four-year, public school located in Pullman, WA.
The following list compares two colleges briefly in important perspectives. You can compare them with comprehensive information on full comparison page.
| Pacific Lutheran University | vs. | Washington State University |
|---|---|---|
| Tacoma, Washington | Location | Pullman, Washington |
| Four-year, Private (not-for-profit) | School Type | four-year, Public |
| Doctor's degree | Highest Degree Offered | Doctor's degree |
| Master's College and University (medium programs) | Carnegie Classification | Research University (very high research activity) |
| $50,916 | 2025 Tuition & Fees | In-State$13,391
Out-Of-State$29,950 |
| 94% | % Receiving Financial Aid | 68% |
| $38,262 | Average Amount of Financial Aid | $12,107 |
| 78.02 % | Acceptance Rates | 86.64 % |
| 14.12 % | Yield (Enrollment Rates) | 19.72 % |
| 1,160 | SAT Score | - |
| 25 | ACT Score | - |
| 69 % | Graduation Rate | 60 % |
| 24 % | Transfer-out Rate | - |
| 82 % | Retention Rate | 78 % |
| 2,797 | Student Population | 25,685 |
| 176 | Number of Faculties | 1,410 |
| 12 to 1 | Students to Faculty Ratio | 15 to 1 |
| Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher Certification | Special Learning Opportunities | Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Teacher Certification |
| Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services | On Campus Student Services | Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services, On-campus daycare |