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College comparison
Pepperdine vs SMU
A side-by-side of acceptance rate, test scores, and cost — source-cited estimates, not guarantees. Want the number that actually matters for your student? Model your admit odds at each.
| Metric |  Pepperdine Malibu, CA |  SMU Dallas, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance ratePepperdine University is more selective | 63% | 63% |
| SAT (25–75) | 1290–1450 | 1340–1490 |
| ACT (25–75) | — | — |
| Undergrad enrollment | 3,553 | 7,277 |
| Avg net price | $58,098 | $40,892 |
| Test policy | — | — |
| Type | Private (nonprofit) | Private (nonprofit) |
| Location | Malibu, CA | Dallas, TX |
Quick answers
- Is Pepperdine University or Southern Methodist University harder to get into?
- Pepperdine University is more selective: Pepperdine University's acceptance rate is approximately 63% and Southern Methodist University's is approximately 63% (estimates from public and primary sources).
- What SAT score do you need for Pepperdine University vs Southern Methodist University?
- The middle-50% SAT range is 1290–1450 at Pepperdine University and 1340–1490 at Southern Methodist University. Scores outside these bands are still admitted, especially with strong applications.
Figures are estimates compiled from public datasets (College Scorecard / IPEDS) and primary sources; verify with each institution before relying on them.
These outputs are estimates from a baseline model — not guarantees of admission, cost, or outcome.