About

University Type

Private

University Type

Average Living Expenses

$67,805

Average Living Expenses

Founded in 1959, California Lutheran University (CLU) is a private university in Thousand Oaks, California. It is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America but is nonsectarian. CLU offers degrees in the liberal arts and professional fields. The university has a total enrollment of 3,000+ students, an acceptance rate of 82%, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 14:1.

California Lutheran University offers 100+ student clubs and organisations, meeting every student's passions. CLU's The average annual tuition fee for international students seeking an undergraduate degree from CLU should be prepared to pay approximately $48,012, and $20,600 for graduate programs.

Students are encouraged to get involved in the university's many service-learning opportunities, which allow them to use their skills and talents to make a difference in the community. California Lutheran University is ranked 368th in US College Rankings 2022, by Times Higher Education.

Top Reasons to Study in the California Lutheran University

Here are some of the things that make California Lutheran University special:

  • THE LUTHERAN EXPERIENCE: CLU is a Lutheran university, but students of all faiths are welcome. The university's commitment to social justice and service learning is evident in its curriculum and its student activities.
  • FOCUS ON LIBERAL ARTS: CLU believes that a well-rounded education is essential for success in today's world. That's why all students at CLU are required to take courses in the liberal arts, such as English, history, math, science, and foreign language.
  • COMMITTED TO UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH: CLU encourages students to get involved in undergraduate research, which allows them to work with faculty on real-world projects. This experience can help students develop their research skills and learn how to think critically and solve problems.
  • SENSE OF COMMUNITY: CLU is a close-knit community where students, faculty, and staff know each other. This sense of community makes it easy for students to get involved on campus and find support from their peers.
  • BEAUTIFUL CAMPUS: CLU is located on a beautiful 500-acre campus in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains. The campus is home to a variety of gardens, fountains, and sculptures, as well as a variety of academic and residential buildings.

Courses

Cost of Studying at California Lutheran University

Average tuition fee

Reasonable

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Living expenses

Average living expenses (Bachelors)

$67,805

Average living expenses (Masters)

$67,805

Admissions at The California Lutheran University

Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)

81%

Application Fee

$25 - $30

How to Apply at California Lutheran University

UNDERGRADUATE

Here are the steps on how to apply to California Lutheran University for undergraduate studies as an international applicant:

  • Submit the Common Application: This is the main application form that you will need to fill out. You can find it on the Cal Lutheran website.
  • Submit your official transcripts from your high school or previous college: These transcripts must be translated into English if they are not already in English.
  • Submit your English proficiency test scores: You can take the Duolingo English Test, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE.
  • Write an essay: Be sure to highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities.
  • Submit two letters of recommendation: Your letters of recommendation should be from teachers or other academic professionals who can speak to your academic abilities.
  • Pay the application fee: The application fee is $25 for international applicants.

POSTGRADUATE

Here are the steps on how to apply to California Lutheran University for postgraduate studies as an international applicant:

  • Visit the Cal Lutheran website and go to the Graduate Admissions page.
  • Start your application: You can apply online through the Common Application.
  • Submit your application materials: This includes your application form, official transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and financial statement.
  • Take the TOEFL or IELTS: You must demonstrate English proficiency by taking one of these standardized tests.
  • Pay the application fee: The application fee for international applicants is $25.
  • Request an interview: Interviews are optional, but they can help your application stand out. You can request an interview through the Common Application.
  • Wait for a decision: The admissions process takes about 30 days. You will be notified of your decision by email.

MASTER'S AND PhD

Here are the steps on how to apply to California Lutheran University for a Master's or PhD as an international applicant:

  • Check the admission requirements: You can find the specific requirements for your program on the California Lutheran University website.
  • Submit the Common Application: This is the main application form that you will need to fill out. You can find it on the Cal Lutheran website.
  • Submit your official transcripts from your high school or previous college: These transcripts must be translated into English if they are not already in English.
  • Submit your English proficiency test scores: You can take the Duolingo English Test, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE.
  • Write an essay: Highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities.
  • Submit two letters of recommendation: Your letters of recommendation should be from teachers or other academic professionals who can speak to your academic abilities.
  • Pay the application fee.
  • Request an interview if you wish.

Documents Required to Apply to California Lutheran University

UNDERGRADUATE

Here are the documents you need to apply to California Lutheran University for undergraduate studies as an international applicant:

  • Common Application.
  • Personal Essay.
  • Two Letters of Recommendation.
  • Official Transcripts, translated into English.
  • English Proficiency test scores.
  • Application Fee.

POSTGRADUATE

Here are the documents you need to apply to California Lutheran University for postgraduate studies as an international applicant:

  • Online application.
  • Official transcripts, translated into English.
  • English proficiency test scores.
  • Personal statement.
  • Two letters of recommendation.
  • Financial statement.
  • Passport information page.
  • Application fee.

Additional:

  • Resume or CV.
  • Work samples.

MASTER'S AND PhD

Here are the documents you need to apply to California Lutheran University for a Master's or PhD as an international applicant:

  • Online application.
  • Official transcripts, translated into English.
  • English proficiency test scores.
  • Personal statement.
  • Two letters of recommendation.
  • Financial statement.
  • Passport information page.
  • Application fee.

Additional:

  • Resume or CV.
  • Work samples.

Exams Accepted By California Lutheran University

California Lutheran University (CLU) accepts the following English proficiency exams for international students:

  • DET: 110
  • TOEFL: 213 (computer-based), 550 (paper-based), or 79 (internet-based)
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • PTE (Academic): 58
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Alumni at California Lutheran University

California Lutheran University (CLU) has a large and active 50,000+ alumni network. Some notable CLU alumni include:

  • Tracy Downs, M.D., is a physician who has served as the CEO of the Ventura County Medical Center since 2013.
  • Christina Lee is a producer, writer, and showrunner at Warner Bros. Television. She is the creator of the television show "Nancy Drew."
  • Chris Kajtor, MPPA '10, is the Chief of Staff for the City of Thousand Oaks.
  • Naomi Beaty is a screenwriter who has written for television shows such as "The Good Wife" and "Scandal."
  • Oliver Thornton '16, is a documentary filmmaker who has won numerous awards for his work.

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Deekshith TANGUTOORI
Deekshith TANGUTOORI

3 years ago

CLU is best college?
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Deekshith TANGUTOORI
Deekshith TANGUTOORI

3 years ago

CLU is good clg? Any one from CLU please ping me.
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Campus life

Number of campuses the university has
4

Campus locations
California

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Transportation in the city

Thousand Oaks, California has several transportation options available to its residents and visitors. Here are some of the most common:

  • Public bus: Thousand Oaks Transit (TOT) operates a fleet of buses that serve the city and surrounding areas, offering convenience and an affordable means to get around, and connect to other regional transit services.
  • Dial-A-Ride: TOT also offers a door-to-door dial-a-ride service for people who are unable to use the regular bus system, including people with disabilities, seniors, and others who have limited mobility.
  • Lyft and Uber: These ride-hailing services are becoming increasingly popular in Thousand Oaks, offering an affordable way to get around, especially if you are travelling with a group.
  • Bicycle: Biking can be a healthy and environmentally friendly way to get around Thousand Oaks. There are several bike trails and paths that crisscross the city, with bike-share stations situated throughout.

Services offered by the university

California Lutheran University offers varied services to its students, including:

  • Academic advising: Academic advisors meet with students individually to discuss their academic goals, plan their coursework, course substitutions, and make progress towards their degree.
  • Health services: The university's health centre offers services, including medical care, mental health counselling, and sexual health education. The health centre is staffed by a team of doctors, nurses, and counsellors who are available to students 24/7.
  • Financial aid: The university's financial aid office helps students apply for financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and loans; alongside offering workshops and counselling sessions to help students understand the financial aid process.
  • Student support services: The university offers many student support services, including tutoring, writing assistance, and disability services, available to all students, regardless of their academic background or financial need.
  • Diversity and inclusion: The university is committed to diversity and inclusion, and offers several services to support students from all backgrounds, including cultural awareness workshops, support groups, and affinity organisations.

Student life at California Lutheran University

  • Involvement in student activities: There are over 200 student organizations at Cal Lutheran, so whether you are interested in sports, arts, service, or anything else, there is an organization for you.
  • Attend sporting events: Cal Lutheran is a member of the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC) and competes in NCAA Division III. The Kingsmen and Lady Kingsmen have won numerous conference championships and have sent student-athletes to the NCAA National Tournament.
  • Explore the arts: Cal Lutheran has a theatre department that produces several productions each year and a music department that offers ensembles and classes. Several art galleries on campus showcase the work of local and student artists.
  • Get involved in service: Cal Lutheran has a service-learning program that allows students to earn academic credit for their volunteer work. Several student organizations focus on services, such as the Habitat for Humanity chapter and the American Red Cross chapter.
  • Enjoy the outdoors: Cal Lutheran is located in Thousand Oaks, California, which is a beautiful city with a lot to offer. There are several parks and trails nearby, so you can go for a hike, bike ride, or swim.

On campus accomodation at California Lutheran University

California Lutheran University offers many on-campus accommodation options for undergraduate and graduate students, including:

  • Residence Halls: Cal Lutheran has nine residence halls, each with its unique personality. Some halls are designed for first-year students, while others are more suited for upperclassmen. All halls offer air conditioning, cable television, and high-speed internet.
  • Apartment-style Living: Cal Lutheran offers apartment-style living for upperclassmen, located in Grace Hall and features fully furnished kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas.
  • Family Housing: Cal Lutheran also offers family housing for graduate students with children. These apartments are located in University Houses and feature two bedrooms, bathrooms, and a living area.

Cost:

The cost of a double room in a residence hall ranges from \$2,800 to \$3,600 per semester. The cost of an apartment in Grace Hall ranges from \$3,600 to \$4,500 per semester.

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FAQ

1. What are the average tuition fees of California Lutheran University?
The average California Lutheran University tuition fee for international students is 46,000 USD approximately (35,00,000 INR) per year. 

2. What are GPA requirements for enrollment at California Lutheran University?
California Lutheran University GPA requirement for international students is 3.7 for enrollment. 

3. Does California Lutheran University offer courses in distance learning or online learning?
Students find an ample number of online and distance learning opportunities for bachelor's and master's degree programmes. 

4. What is the acceptance rate of California Lutheran University? 
California Lutheran University's acceptance rate is 71%. 

5. Does California Lutheran University offer student exchange programmes?
California Lutheran University provides summer and winter study abroad programmes for students for the duration of two weeks to two months.