La Salle University logo

La Salle University

Accept Rate
86.19%
Grad Rate
59.8%
Enrollment
1,966
Tuition
$35,570
Median Salary
$67,416
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
A+
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

La Salle University offers a close-knit, community-focused atmosphere nestled in a quiet, leafy residential neighborhood of Philadelphia. It feels like a place where students know each other and professors, creating a supportive environment that balances urban access with a comforting campus bubble.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

86.19%
Open Admission

Test Optional

This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission

Admissions Tips

With an acceptance rate over 86%, La Salle is accessible, but you should still submit a strong personal essay that highlights your fit with their mission of service and community. Since they are test-optional, focus on a solid GPA and meaningful extracurriculars, particularly those demonstrating leadership or volunteerism. If you are from Pennsylvania, be sure to apply early to maximize your chances for merit-based aid.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1200
40080012001600

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

La Salle is known for strong programs in Business, Health Professions, and Criminal Justice, emphasizing practical, career-oriented learning. The faculty are praised for being accessible and engaged, and small class sizes foster mentorship, though research opportunities are more limited compared to larger research universities.

Popular Majors

Business & Marketing
25.7%
Health Professions
23.9%
Multidisciplinary Studies
7.1%
Psychology
6.4%
Criminal Justice
4.7%
Computer Science
4.1%
Communications
4.1%
Education
3.8%
Social Sciences
3.5%
Biology & Biomedical
3.1%
Public Administration
2.9%
Visual & Performing Arts
2.2%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

59.8%
Graduation Rate
69.4%
Retention Rate
1,966
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$35,570
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$21,409
After financial aid
Total Cost
$45,046
Cost of attendance/year
32.6%
Receive Pell Grants
45.1%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Philadelphia

Philadelphia offers a vibrant backdrop, with students frequently taking the nearby subway into Center City for concerts, museums, and sports events. On weekends, students explore the city's famous food scene, from Reading Terminal Market to the trendy Fishtown neighborhood, or relax in nearby Wissahickon Valley Park.

Local Rent Check

$1,451 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Philadelphia
Explore Philadelphia

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$142,280
$0Est. 4 Years: $142,280

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($67,416):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus itself is generally considered safe with its own campus safety department, but it is located in a residential part of the city where standard urban awareness is required. Students are advised to use the university's shuttle service and blue light emergency phones when moving around campus at night.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Generous merit scholarships significantly lower the net cost for many students
  • โœ“ Strong alumni network in the Philadelphia region, especially in business and healthcare
  • โœ“ Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from professors
  • โœ“ Access to Philadelphia's internships and cultural scene without the chaos of a massive campus

Cons

  • โœ— Graduation and retention rates are lower than the national average for private universities
  • โœ— Campus life and social scene can feel quiet compared to larger state schools
  • โœ— Limited research facilities compared to major R1 institutions

Notable Alumni

John F. Smith
Former CEO of General Motors, leading the company through a massive turnaround.
Mike Richter
Former NHL star goaltender for the New York Rangers and Olympic medalist.
Maureen L. Siena
President and CEO of the business consulting firm Joseph Anthony, Inc.

Frequently Asked Questions

La Salle University is known for its strong programs in Business & Marketing, Health Professions, and Criminal Justice. Rooted in the Christian Brothers tradition, it emphasizes a holistic education focused on service, ethics, and community engagement, serving as a 'Legacy of Leadership'.

No, La Salle has a high acceptance rate of 86.19%, making it an accessible option for many applicants. While it is not highly selective, admitted students typically have solid academic records, and the university values a holistic review process including essays and extracurricular involvement.

Campus life at La Salle is described as close-knit and community-oriented. While located in a residential neighborhood rather than a bustling downtown core, students stay engaged through over 100 student organizations, Division I athletics, and easy access to Philadelphia for off-campus entertainment.

Yes, for many students it is a good value. With an average net price of $21,409โ€”well below the sticker priceโ€”and median 10-year earnings of $67,416, the ROI is solid. The combination of private school attention, strong regional job placement, and significant financial aid makes it a worthwhile investment.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Comcast Independence Blue Cross Children's Hospital of Philadelphia GlaxoSmithKline IBM
Smart Start Score
67

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 3,147
  • In-State Tuition $35,570
  • Zip Code 19141

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 35.1% โ™€ 64.9%

The Money Talk

While the sticker price is high, the average net price of $21,409 is significantly lower due to merit aid and grants, making it a competitive option for a private university. With 10-year median earnings of $67,416, the degree offers a solid return on investment, particularly for those entering the business and healthcare fields.

*Based on Dept of Education data

โš–๏ธ Compare Schools

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Compare with St. Mary's University

๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $35,570
Housing (12 mo) $17,412
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $60,182
With avg financial aid:
$21,409/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.