Chances of Getting Into University of San Diego
San Diego, California • Private University • #93 National • Founded 1949
USD Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
USD SAT & ACT Scores
SAT Scores (Middle 50%)
ACT Scores (Middle 50%)
About University of San Diego
The University of San Diego is a Catholic university perched on a mesa overlooking Mission Bay and the Pacific Ocean. With one of the most beautiful campuses in America and strong business, engineering, and marine science programs, USD offers a premium educational experience in paradise.
Top Programs
What Makes USD Unique
- Stunning hilltop campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Mission Bay
- Catholic heritage emphasizing ethics and social justice
- Marine science programs with direct ocean access
- Knauss School of Business with strong regional connections
- San Diego location — one of the best cities for quality of life
USD Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
USD Application Deadlines
How to Get Into USD: Admission Tips
EA deadline November 15 gives earlier decisions
USD values community service and faith engagement
Mention the San Diego location as an asset for your career goals
Merit scholarships can bring down the high sticker price
Demonstrated interest helps — campus visit is highly recommended
The Brutal Truth About USD Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 49% acceptance rate, USD rejected over 8,670 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At USD, having a 3.7 GPA and 1315 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.
The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. USD doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.
Bottom line: Apply if USD genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 49%-acceptance-rate basket.
USD Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at University of San Diego?
University of San Diego has an acceptance rate of 49% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 17,000+ applicants, approximately 1,200 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into USD?
The average GPA of admitted students at University of San Diego is 3.7. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.55, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
What SAT score do I need for USD?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted USD students is 1240-1390. The average SAT score is 1315. For ACT, the range is 28-32 with an average of 30.
Is USD hard to get into?
Yes, University of San Diego is selective with an acceptance rate of just 49%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.
How much does USD cost?
Tuition at University of San Diego is $56,850 per year, with total cost of attendance at $75,600. However, 60% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $28,000+.
What are my chances of getting into USD?
Your chances of getting into University of San Diego depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 49% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.
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