Loyola Marymount University’s acceptance rate for 2025 is projected to be around 44%, which makes it moderately competitive. This means many students get in, but strong grades and activities still matter a lot. Most admitted students have GPAs near 3.8 or higher, and test scores in a solid range. LMU looks for curious, involved students who fit its values and community, and there is much more to explore about how that works.
- Key Takeaways
- Understanding LMU Acceptance Rate for Class of 2028
- Historical LMU Acceptance Rate Trends and Patterns
- LMU Acceptance Rate In State Versus Out of State
- Early Action Regular Decision LMU Acceptance Rates
- International Students LMU Acceptance Rate Lower
- Transfer Student Acceptance Rate at LMU
- Test Score Requirements SAT ACT for LMU
- GPA Requirements and Student Profile at LMU
- LMU Acceptance Rate by School Program Variations
- Application Volume and Growing Applicant Pool
- Yield Rate Enrollment After LMU Admission
- Factors Affecting LMU Acceptance Rate Changes
- Waitlist Acceptance Rate and LMU Chances
- Diversity and Demographics in LMU Class
- LMU Acceptance Rate Compared to Peer Universities
- How to Strengthen Your LMU Application
- Class Profile Statistics LMU Admitted Students
- Future Outlook LMU Acceptance Rate Projections
- Frequently Asked Questions
Key Takeaways
- Loyola Marymount University’s projected acceptance rate for the Class of 2028 is about 44.3%, making it a moderately competitive school.
- Overall, LMU’s recent acceptance rate hovers around 45.1%, lower than the national average of 56.7%.
- Historical trends show LMU becoming more selective, with acceptance rates dropping from 53.9% in 2016 to about 40–45% in recent years.
- In-state applicants see higher admit rates (about 49.9%), while international students face steep competition with only about a 6.2% acceptance rate.
- Admitted students typically have strong academics, with average GPAs around 3.85–3.97 and competitive SAT scores between 1280 and 1400.
Understanding LMU Acceptance Rate for Class of 2028
Even though college admissions can seem confusing, the LMU acceptance rate for the Class of 2028 gives students a clear starting point. LMU is projected to admit about 44.3% of applicants. This shows a moderately competitive process yet still feels reachable.
To stand out, students can investigate helpful LMU application strategies. They can focus on strong grades and steady effort. Recent admitted students often bring GPAs close to 3.97.
LMU admission criteria also value solid test scores. SAT scores between 1280 and 1400 look competitive. Early Decision may offer higher chances, with past rates around 52%.
Historical LMU Acceptance Rate Trends and Patterns
Over the past decade, LMU’s acceptance rates have changed in noticeable ways.
In 2016, LMU admitted 53.9% of applicants. By the Class of 2023, that number fell to 40.3%. For Fall 2020, the rate was 43.8%, still quite selective. The Class of 2025 saw a 50% rate, with 9,314 admits from 18,576 applications. A projected 44.3% rate for 2025–2026 suggests steady competition.
These shifts reflect changing application trends and updated admission strategies. Students can see that LMU attracts many strong applicants who want a close, caring campus community.
LMU Acceptance Rate In State Versus Out of State
Why does LMU seem easier to get into for some students than others?
LMU’s overall acceptance rate is 45.1%, but it is not the same for everyone. In-state applicants enjoy clear in state advantages, with about 49.9% admitted. Out-of-state and international students face real out of state challenges. International applicants see only about a 6.2% acceptance rate.
| Group | Approximate Acceptance Insight |
|---|---|
| Overall applicants | 45.1% accepted |
| In-state applicants | 49.9% accepted |
| International applicants | 6.2% accepted |
| Out-of-state applicants | Lower than in-state |
| Key takeaway | Location shapes admission odds |
Early Action Regular Decision LMU Acceptance Rates
Many students wonder if applying early to Loyola Marymount University can boost their chances.
For the Class of 2025, LMU admitted 50% of all applicants. Early Decision applicants saw a 42% acceptance rate, which rewards strong commitment. Early action benefits include showing LMU clear interest and receiving news sooner. This can help students feel more settled and connected.
Regular applicants faced a 45.1% acceptance rate. Strong regular decision strategies include improving grades, rewriting essays, and adding new activities. These steps help applicants present real growth. Even with a 3.3% waitlist acceptance rate, each thoughtful application still matters.
International Students LMU Acceptance Rate Lower
Even though Loyola Marymount University seems welcoming, the acceptance rate for international students is much lower than for U.S. applicants. LMU admits about 45.1% of all applicants but only 6.2% of international students. This can feel discouraging yet it also shows how carefully LMU reads each file.
International criteria create real application challenges. Only 1,411 international students applied out of 23,089 total. Most admitted students held around a 3.97 GPA. Strong English scores also matter. LMU expects at least 90 on TOEFL iBT, 6.5 on IELTS, or 53 on PTE Academic.
Transfer Student Acceptance Rate at LMU
For students who might not start at LMU right away, transfer options offer another path.
The transfer acceptance rate for 2024 is 47.9 percent. That means LMU welcomed 1,572 transfer students from 3,283 applicants. This is higher than the 40.9 percent rate in 2023. It shows LMU is more open to transfer students now. Still, the average GPA of accepted transfers is 3.97, so strong grades matter. Good transfer application strategies include sharing clear goals and steady progress. LMU also provides transfer student resources that help newcomers adjust, connect, and feel part of the campus community.
Test Score Requirements SAT ACT for LMU
Although LMU is test-optional, understanding SAT and ACT scores can still help a lot. For the SAT, admitted students usually score around 1336 on average. Many fall between 1280 and 1400. For the ACT, the average score is 30, with most between 28 and 32. These numbers act as competitive standards.
Students can use smart test score strategies. LMU’s Score Choice policy lets them send their highest section scores from different test dates. Scores around 1400 SAT or 32 ACT often strengthen chances. Scores below 1280 SAT or 28 ACT may make admission harder.
GPA Requirements and Student Profile at LMU
Since Loyola Marymount University welcomes many strong students, GPA plays a big role in admission.
LMU’s recent GPA trends show that admitted students usually earn very high marks. The average GPA for the Class of 2025 is about 3.85. Around 35.7% of students entered with a perfect 4.0. This shows real academic rigor in their classes. Many students take AP or other advanced courses to grow and stretch. LMU seems to look for learners who challenge themselves and stay curious. Aiming for strong grades and serious coursework helps students feel ready. It also helps them belong in LMU’s motivated campus community.
LMU Acceptance Rate by School Program Variations
Strong grades help a student stand out at LMU, but the program choice also matters.
LMU program competitiveness changes from school to school because LMU major popularity is not equal.
The overall acceptance rate is about 45.1 percent.
Business Administration is tougher at around 40 percent, since many students want business.
The School of Film and Television is even more selective at about 36 percent.
There are fewer spots and very high demand.
The Seaver College of Science and Engineering sits near 43 percent.
Some graduate programs, especially the MBA, admit even fewer students.
Application Volume and Growing Applicant Pool
Each year, more students decide to apply to Loyola Marymount University than before. For the Class of 2025, LMU received 18,576 applications. That is a large group of hopeful students. LMU accepted 9,314 students, giving an acceptance rate of 50 percent. In earlier years, the rate was a little higher, even reaching 53.9 percent in 2016. This shows a growing applicant pool and a more intense competitive environment. Students now need strong application strategies. They think carefully about grades, activities, and essays. Many feel excited knowing so many others hope to join the same welcoming community.
Yield Rate Enrollment After LMU Admission
Although acceptance rates often get the most attention, the yield rate tells a different story.
At Loyola Marymount University, it shows how many admitted students actually choose to enroll.
Several yield rate factors shape this choice. The moderately competitive 45.1% acceptance rate signals selectivity.
Students know they earned a real spot. That can increase pride and commitment.
Other enrollment motivations also matter. LMU’s strong reputation, ranked No. 77 nationally, builds confidence.
Financial aid packages help many students feel that LMU is truly possible.
The mission of service and community involvement attracts students seeking meaningful belonging.
Factors Affecting LMU Acceptance Rate Changes
Over time, several key forces have influenced how hard it is to get into LMU.
The acceptance rate fell from 53.9% in 2016 to 43.8% in 2020.
In 2024, it was 45.1% with 23,089 students applying, so competition stayed tough.
These shifts come from selectivity factors like stronger grades and test scores.
Admitted students averaged a 3.97 GPA and SAT scores from 1280 to 1400.
LMU’s test‑optional policy also shapes application strategies.
Strong scores can help students with lower GPAs.
Different domestic and international acceptance rates show how applicant groups affect changes.
Waitlist Acceptance Rate and LMU Chances
Even when a student does not get into LMU right away, the story is not over. The waitlist still offers a real path. In 2024, LMU admitted 222 students from 6,802 waitlisted applicants, about 3.3%. That is lower than 4.8% in 2023 and far from the 18.3% peak in 2020. These numbers show changing waitlist trends each year.
| Year | Waitlisted Applicants | Waitlist Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | — | 18.3% |
| 2021 | — | — |
| 2022 | — | — |
| 2023 | — | 4.8% |
| 2024 | 6,802 | 3.3% |
Strong grades and quick, thoughtful responses remain key acceptance strategies.
Diversity and Demographics in LMU Class
The LMU Class of 2025 brings together many different kinds of students and stories.
Around 45% of the class identifies as students of color, showing strong cultural representation.
Students come from all 50 states and more than 50 countries, including 6.2% international students.
Many are first-generation college students, building new paths for their families.
LMU works hard to make sure no one feels alone or unseen.
The university offers student support programs and welcoming spaces.
These efforts help students share their cultures, learn from each other, and feel they truly belong.
LMU Acceptance Rate Compared to Peer Universities
Students now know that LMU brings together many kinds of people and backgrounds. Its acceptance rate is 45.1 percent, which feels challenging yet reachable. In the competitive environment, LMU sits between more and less selective schools. Occidental College is tougher, with a 36.7 percent acceptance rate. Otis College of Art and Design is easier to enter at 78.2 percent. Mount St. Mary’s College is even more open at 89.7 percent. LMU admission strategies reflect real care in shaping each class. Its rate, lower than the 56.7 percent national average, signals thoughtful selectivity.
How to Strengthen Your LMU Application
Picture building an LMU application like putting together a strong, thoughtful puzzle.
Helpful application strategies begin with strong grades. A GPA near 3.85, plus AP or IB classes, shows real effort. Solid scores also matter. An SAT around 1380–1400 or ACT 31–32 can boost chances.
Extracurricular tips focus on depth, not a long list. LMU values leadership, creativity, service, and community care. One or two activities with real impact can stand out. Essays should sound honest and personal. They should show growth and care for others. Strong teacher recommendations then confirm character, curiosity, and daily effort.
Class Profile Statistics LMU Admitted Students
Numbers can tell an exciting story about the students LMU admits.
Their academic achievements show strong effort and focus. The average GPA is 3.85. About 35.7% earn a perfect 4.0. Around 72% rank in the top quarter of their class.
| Class of 2025 Snapshot | Number / Range | Feeling It Creates |
|---|---|---|
| Applicants | 18,576 | Many hopeful stories |
| Admitted | 9,314 | A wide, welcoming door |
| Acceptance rate | 50% | Moderately competitive chance |
| SAT middle 50% | 1230–1380 | Serious study habits |
| ACT middle 50% | 27–31 | Strong student demographics |
Future Outlook LMU Acceptance Rate Projections
Even though the future is never certain, LMU’s acceptance rate shows some clear patterns.
Future trends suggest slight acceptance fluctuations rather than big jumps. The projected rate of 44.3% for 2025–2026 is a bit higher than Fall 2020. Still, the long-term pattern since 2016 shows a slow move toward more selectivity.
LMU continues to admit fewer students than the national average of 56.7%. This keeps the campus feeling close and intentional. Students who go beyond the average GPA and test scores will still stand out. They can feel hopeful about finding their place in this community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does LMU Acceptance Rate Differ for Specific Majors Like Film or Business?
Yes, LMU acceptance rates differ by major; for instance, film and business often admit a smaller percentage than campus-wide averages, reflecting higher major competitiveness, program popularity, and the close-knit community applicants hope to join.
How Does Financial Aid Availability Affect an Applicant’s Chances at LMU?
Financial aid availability usually does not reduce an individual’s admission chances; admissions and aid are reviewed separately. However, strong financial aid can increase applicant diversity by enabling more students from varied economic backgrounds to contemplate and attend LMU.
Are LMU Legacy or Donor Connections Considered in Admissions Decisions?
LMU may acknowledge legacy influence or donor impact, but official admissions decisions prioritize academic achievement, mission concordance, and community involvement. Applicants without such connections still belong, with comprehensive review ensuring many pathways to admission and campus inclusion.
What Role Do Extracurriculars and Leadership Play in LMU Admissions?
Extracurricular impact and leadership roles signal how applicants might color LMU’s community tapestry, highlighting initiative, collaboration, and service. Admissions values sustained commitment, responsibility, and care for others, viewing these experiences as proof of readiness to belong and contribute meaningfully.
How Important Are Application Essays and Personal Statements for LMU Acceptance?
Application essays and personal statements carry considerable weight at LMU; strong essay quality and authentic reflection greatly shape application impact, revealing fit with LMU’s values of community, service, and belonging beyond grades, scores, and extracurricular involvement.
