
Seattle University
Discover Seattle University, a vibrant institution located in the heart of Seattle and a short walk to the downtown core and waterfront.
Acceptance rate
76.9%
SAT (mid 50%)
1200–1430
Avg net price
$34,662
after aid
Testing
Optional
2027 cycle
Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the Seattle University admissions site.
Your chances
How hard is it to get in?
Seattle University admitted 76.9% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That means most students who apply get in. Your job is to meet the requirements and apply on time.
Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1200–1430 on the SAT and 23–30 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.
The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what Seattle University actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.
What they value
Life-Changing Education In a World-Changing City
At Seattle University, academic excellence drives a transformative education that challenges you to think deeply, lead ethically and grow personally and professionally.
With over 60 undergraduate majors and a wide variety of minors and specializations, students will find programs that fit their ambitions, including 65 undergraduate majors in today’s top fields.
- Small Classesaveraging 18 students
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio11:1
- Classes Taught by Faculty100% by faculty, not graduate students
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The essays
Here are the supplemental essay prompts.
The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.
The nursing program is a competitive program that admits students directly to the four-year nursing cohort. The College of Nursing and Health Sciences' mission is to educate and inspire leaders to transform health care for a just and humane world. Why are you applying to the nursing program at Seattle University and what aspects of the profession uniquely excite you?
Up to 250 words
The Diagnostic Ultrasound program at Seattle University is a competitive program that admits students directly to the four-year Diagnostic Ultrasound cohort. The College of Nursing and Health Science's mission is to educate and inspire leaders to transform healthcare for a just and humane world. Why are you applying to the Diagnostic Ultrasound program at Seattle University and what aspects of the profession uniquely excite you?
Up to 250 words
Your artist statement is a way to introduce yourself and your work. We are interested in finding out more about you as an individual, your artistic practice, and why you believe Cornish College of the Arts at Seattle University is the right college for you.
Every prompt, with how to approach each →
Verified from seattleu.edu.
Cost and aid
What will you actually pay?
The sticker price is about $72,124. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $34,662.
Grounded in the Jesuit tradition of inclusion, diversity, equity and justice, Seattle University strives to make education attainable, with institutional gift aid guaranteed for eligible years and over 1,400 paid on-campus jobs available.
Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $75,272.
Verified from seattleu.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.
Academics
These are the most popular majors.
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing19% of degrees
- Computer Science7% of degrees
- Psychology, General6% of degrees
- Marketing5% of degrees
- Finance and Financial Management Services4% of degrees
- Business Administration, Management and Operations3% of degrees
Campus life
Here’s the feel of the place.
On First Hill, explore a 50-acre park-like campus, while the South Lake Union campus offers a four-acre urban hub with modern artistic spaces.
Quick answers
What do people ask about Seattle University?
- Is Seattle University test-optional?
- For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at Seattle University is optional.
- How hard is it to get into Seattle University?
- Very hard. Seattle University admits 76.9% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1200 to 1430 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
- How much does Seattle University cost?
- The list price is about $72,124. After aid, families pay $34,662 on average.
- Is Seattle University worth it?
- Graduates earn a median of $75,272 ten years after enrolling. 74% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.
Launching soon
Ask Spike anything about Seattle University.
Spike answers from Seattle University’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.