Westmont College
The Vibe Check
Westmont College offers a tight-knit, faith-based community nestled in the foothills of Santa Barbara, creating a warm and supportive atmosphere. The campus feels like a close family where students are deeply engaged in both their studies and spiritual growth. You'll find a strong sense of belonging and intentional mentorship from faculty and peers.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Westmont provides a rigorous liberal arts education with a strong Christian foundation, emphasizing critical thinking and ethical leadership. The college offers personalized attention with a low student-to-faculty ratio, fostering meaningful professor-student interactions. Research opportunities are abundant, especially through programs like the Westmont Summer Research Institute.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Santa Barbara
Students enjoy Santa Barbara's perfect weather, beautiful beaches, and vibrant downtown area with shops and cafes. Outdoor activities are huge here, from surfing and hiking in the Santa Ynez mountains to exploring the Funk Zone art district. The city's relaxed, upscale vibe offers a great balance to academic life.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($64,778):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Westmont is located in a safe, affluent suburban neighborhood of Santa Barbara with a low crime rate. The campus itself has its own campus safety department with 24/7 patrols and emergency services.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Stunning 110-acre campus in one of America's most desirable cities.
- ✓ Strong, integrated Christian community with deep faculty mentorship.
- ✓ High retention (86.8%) and graduation rates (71.8%) indicate a supportive academic environment.
- ✓ Intercollegiate athletics are a major part of campus spirit and community.
Cons
- ✗ High tuition cost, even after financial aid is applied.
- ✗ The required religious life units may not fit every student's background or beliefs.
- ✗ Smaller enrollment (1,310) means fewer course options and less urban diversity than a large university.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Westmont is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum rooted in evangelical Christian faith. It is highly regarded for its beautiful campus location in Santa Barbara, its community-focused environment, and its successful NCAA Division III athletics program.
Westmont has an acceptance rate of 79.86%, making it generally accessible. While not extremely selective, admitted students typically have a strong academic profile, with an average SAT score of 1367 and a solid high school GPA. The admissions process also heavily weighs personal essays and alignment with the college's mission.
Campus life is community-oriented and faith-integrated. Students participate in dorm activities, weekly chapel services, and numerous outdoor trips. With a small enrollment, students know each other well, and the residential life program fosters deep friendships and spiritual growth.
For students seeking a faith-integrated education in a prime location, Westmont can be worth the investment. The 10-year median earnings of $64,778 are competitive, and the high graduation and retention rates suggest students are well-supported to complete their degree. The ROI is maximized for those who leverage the strong alumni network.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 1,359
- In-State Tuition $51,790
- Zip Code 93108
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a high sticker price, the net cost after aid averages around $32,926, making it a significant investment. However, the strong 71.8% graduation rate and a 10-year median earnings of $64,778 suggest a solid return on investment for graduates. The value is amplified by the tight alumni network and career support, particularly in business and non-profit sectors.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.