La Verne, CAprivate nonprofitlaverne.edu
The University of La Verne is a private institution in Southern California known for its accessible admissions, strong business programs, and suburban-meets-urban student experience. With a 48-55% acceptance rate and a focus on practical outcomes, it attracts a diverse student body seeking personalized education within reach of Los Angeles.
The University of La Verne is moderately selective, with Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. ranging from 48.5% to 54.8% depending on the year and source. Test-optionalA policy where you choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you don't, the rest of your application carries more weight. since at least 2014, it emphasizes GPA (3.0+ recommended) but accepts middle-50% ACT scores of 18–25 and SAT ranges around 488–663 for Math and 498–663 for Critical Reading. Notably, applicants with a 3.5+ GPA can qualify with alternative credentials like TOEFL or IELTS scores instead of standardized tests. The admissions office encourages outreach via phone, email, or fax, reflecting its student-centered approach.
La Verne offers over 50 undergraduate majors and 20+ master’s programs, with business administration, psychology, and exercise science as the most popular. Its College of Arts and Sciences provides 40+ majors and certificates, while the College of Business and Public Management is particularly noted for highly ranked online programs. The curriculum balances liberal arts with professional preparation, including five doctoral programs. Small class sizes and seven California locations (including online options) cater to both traditional and non-traditional students.
Life at La Verne blends suburban tranquility with proximity to Los Angeles’ opportunities. The campus is described as safe (93% of students report feeling secure) and culturally diverse, with a student center designed to foster community through shared spaces. While specific club and Greek life details aren’t detailed in sources, the university promotes active engagement through athletics and organizations. Its location offers easy access to both outdoor recreation and urban amenities, appealing to students who want a quieter base near a major city.
Retention and graduation rates are areas for growth: 64% of students return after their first year, while 4- and 6-year graduation rates sit at 41% and 49%, respectively. However, alumni median earnings are solid—$36,427 one year post-graduation and $65,464 within a decade. The business school’s strong online program rankings suggest particular strength in preparing working adults for career advancement.
Tuition and fees total approximately $49,550 annually, but the average aid package of $26,910 brings the Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. down to $27,216 for many students. Aid includes federal grants ($6,512 average), state grants ($8,361), and substantial institutional grants ($32,260). The university provides a net price calculator to help families estimate costs, emphasizing accessibility for middle-income students.
La Verne distinguishes itself with a pragmatic balance of accessibility and outcomes. Its Test-optionalA policy where you choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you don't, the rest of your application carries more weight. policy and range of aid options open doors for diverse students, while strong business programs and LA-adjacent location create career pathways. The campus culture—safe, suburban, yet connected to urban opportunities—caters to those who want a supportive environment without sacrificing proximity to internships and jobs. It’s a regional player with particular appeal to Californians seeking a private education that doesn’t require Ivy-level stats.