About

University Type

Private

University Type

Average Living Expenses

$18,846

Average Living Expenses

Soka University of America (SUA) is a private liberal arts college in Aliso Viejo, California. Founded in 1987 by Daisaku Ikeda, the founder of the Soka Gakkai International Buddhist movement, Soka University of America is dedicated to providing students with a "globally engaged education" that fosters peace, creativity, and compassion.

Soka University of America's undergraduate curriculum is based on the liberal arts tradition, with students choosing a concentration in one of five areas: Environmental Studies, Humanities, International Studies, Life Sciences, or Social and Behavioral Sciences. All students are also required to participate in a year-long study abroad program.

The acceptance rate for international students at Soka University of America is 39%. The tuition fees for international students at Soka University of America are as follows:

  • Tuition: $33,218 per year
  • Room and board: $13,422 per year
  • Books and supplies: $1,152 per year
  • Transportation: $350 per year

For the 2023-2024 academic year, the total cost of attendance for international students at Soka University of America is $50,600. This includes tuition, room and board, books and supplies, and transportation.

Soka University of America is not ranked in the top 100 universities in the world by any central ranking agency. However, it does receive some recognition for its academic quality. In 2023, Soka University of America was ranked #29 among national liberal arts colleges by U.S. News & World Report.

Top Reasons to Study in the Soka University of America

  • Globally engaged education: Soka University of America is committed to providing students with a "globally engaged education" that fosters peace, creativity, and compassion. This is reflected in the university's curriculum, which focuses on international studies and intercultural understanding. Soka University of America also requires all students to participate in a year-long study abroad program.
  • Strong faculty: Soka University of America has a strong faculty of scholars worldwide. Many faculty members are experts in their fields and have published extensively. They are also passionate about teaching and mentoring students.
  • Diverse student body: Soka University of America has a diverse student body from over 35 countries. This diversity allows students to learn from and interact with people from different cultures. It also helps students to develop a global perspective.
  • Commitment to social justice: Soka University of America is committed to social justice and peace. The university offers a variety of programs and activities that promote social justice, such as the Peace and Justice Studies Program and the Center for Global Citizenship.
  • Beautiful campus: Soka University of America is located on a beautiful 103-acre campus in Aliso Viejo, California. Mountains surround the campus and have a variety of gardens and walking trails.

Courses

Cost of Studying at Soka University of America

Average tuition fee

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Living expenses

Average living expenses (Bachelors)

$18,846

Average living expenses (Masters)

$18,846

Admissions at The Soka University of America

How to Apply at Soka University of America

The application process for international students is the same as for domestic students. Additional requirements are there for fresh and transfer undergraduate and graduate students.

Fresh Undergraduate/Graduate International Admissions

  • Application: You can apply through the Common Application or Online Application from their official website.
  • The application fee is $30 for international students.
  • Required Materials: In addition to the application, applicants must submit the following:
    • Official transcripts from all schools/colleges/universities attended.
    • Entrance exam scores: SAT/ACT (for undergraduates), GRE/GMAT (Required for graduate and PhD students)
    • English proficiency test scores like Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT) or Duolingo
    • Personal statement/Essay writing
    • Two letters of teacher recommendation
    • Financial Aid Statement of Intent

Transfer Students Undergraduate/Graduate International Admissions

  • Application: You can apply through the Common Application or Online Application on their official website.
  • The application fee is $45 (Undergraduate) and $50 (Graduate) for international students.
  • Required Materials: In addition to the application, applicants must submit the following:
    • Official transcripts from all schools/colleges/universities attended.
    • Entrance exam scores: SAT/ACT (for undergraduates), GRE/GMAT (Required for graduate and PhD students)
    • English proficiency test scores like Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT) or Duolingo
    • Personal statement/essay writing
    • Transfer Report Form
    • Letter of recommendation
    • Financial documentation

Documents Required to Apply to Soka University of America

Undergraduate Students

  • Complete the Common Application or Online Application from their official website
  • Official transcripts from all previous your high school attended
  • SAT/ACT scores
  • Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT) or Duolingo English Test scores.
  • Personal statement/Essay writing
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Financial documentation
  • Resume
  • Additional Documents:
    • Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student (F-1) Status
    • I-20 Form 
    • Passport
    • Visa Sponsorship Letter

Graduate Students/PhD or Scholar Students

  • Complete the Common Application or Online Application from their official website
  • Official transcripts from all previous from your high school or college attended
  • GRE/GMAT scores 
  • Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT) or Duolingo English Test scores.
  • Personal statement
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Resume (Relevant work experience)
  • Additional Documents:
    • Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student (F-1) Status
    • I-20 Form
    • Passport
    • Visa Sponsorship Letter

All documents must be in English or have an official English translation

Exams Accepted By Soka University of America

Undergraduate Students

  • Entrance Tests: SAT/ACT exam.
  • English Proficiency Tests: Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT) or Duolingo English Test scores.

Graduate Students/Ph.D. Students

  • Entrance Tests: GRE/GMAT exam
  • English Proficiency Tests: Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT) or Duolingo English Test scores.
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Students Soka University of America

International Students

% of international students in the university

46

Total International Students in the university

186

Alumni at Soka University of America

  • Tahirih Mafi: Tahereh Mafi is a New York Times best-selling author of young adult fiction. She is known for her Shatter Me series, which has been translated into over 30 languages.
  • Craig Taro Gold: Craig Taro Gold is an American author, entertainer, singer-songwriter, and entrepreneur. He authorises several books, including Open Your Mind, Open Your Life and Living Wabi Sabi.
  • Kiyohiko Toyama: Kiyohiko Toyama is a Japanese politician of the New Komeito Party and a member of Japan's House of Councillors in the Diet (national legislature). He graduated from Soka University of America.
  • Robert Allinson: Robert Allinson is a humanities professor at Soka University of America. He authorises several books on Japanese culture and history, including The Making of Modern Japan and Shinto: The Way of Kami.
  • Jim Merod: Jim Merod is a professor of English at Soka University of America. He is the author of several books on American literature, including The Poetics of Everyday Life and The American Poet at the End of the Century.

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Campus life

Number of campuses the university has
1

Campus locations
California

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Transportation in the city

  • Soka University of America shuttle: Soka University of America offers a free shuttle service on a circular route around campus and to three major shopping plazas. The shuttle runs every 30 minutes and is a great way to get around campus or run errands.
  • Public bus: The OCTA bus system provides service to Aliso Viejo. The nearest bus stop is about a 10-minute walk from campus.
  • Taxi: There are a few taxi companies that operate in Aliso Viejo. Taxis can be expensive, but they are a convenient way to get around if you need to travel to a destination not served by public transportation.
  • Ride-sharing services: Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also available in Aliso Viejo. Ride-sharing services can be more affordable than taxis, but getting a ride during peak hours can also be more challenging.

Services offered by the university

  • Academic Advising: Soka University of America offers academic advising to all students. Academic advisors can help students choose courses, plan their degree programs, and make informed decisions about their education.
  • Career Services: Soka University of America offers career services to all students. Career counsellors can help students develop resumes, practice interviewing skills, and find jobs.
  • Financial Aid: Soka University of America offers financial aid to students who need it. Financial aid officers can help students apply for financial aid, and they can also help students understand their financial aid packages.
  • Health Services: Soka University of America offers health services to all students. The Health Center has a doctor, nurse practitioners, and a variety of other healthcare professionals. The Health Center also offers various health services, such as physical exams, immunisations, and counselling.
  • Residence Life: Soka University of America offers residence life to all students who live on campus. Residence Life staff members can help students with roommate conflicts, housing problems, and other issues that may arise while living on campus.
  • Student Activities: Soka University of America offers a variety of student activities, such as clubs, sports, and arts programs. Student Activities staff members can help students get involved in activities that interest them and help them plan events and activities.

Student life at Soka University of America

  • Join a club or organisation: There are over 50 clubs and organisations at Soka University of America, so there is something for everyone. There will surely be a club that interests you, from academic clubs to sports clubs to art clubs.
  • Attend sporting events: Soka University of America has a variety of sports teams, including men's and women's basketball, volleyball, soccer, and tennis. Students can cheer on their teams at home games or travel to away games to support their school.
  • Get involved in the arts: Soka University of America has a strong arts program with various art studios, galleries, and performance spaces. Students can participate in art classes, see art exhibits, and attend concerts and plays.
  • Volunteer in the community: Soka University of America is committed to community service, and students are encouraged to volunteer locally. Various volunteer opportunities are available, from working with children to cleaning up the environment.
  • Relax and have fun: Soka University of America is a great place to relax and have fun. Students can go to the beach, hike in the mountains, or hang out with friends. There are also a variety of restaurants and shops on campus and in the surrounding area.

On campus accomodation at Soka University of America

  • First-year undergraduate housing: All first-year undergraduate students are guaranteed housing in one of two residence halls: Sunset Hall or Sunrise Hall. Sunset Hall is a traditional dormitory with double rooms, while Sunrise Hall is a suite-style dormitory with two bedrooms and a shared bathroom.
  • Continuing undergraduate housing: Continuing undergraduate students can live in Sunset Hall, Sunrise Hall, or Umoja Hall. Umoja Hall is a suite-style dormitory reserved for continuing undergraduate students interested in living in a community focused on social justice and peace.
  • Graduate housing: Graduate students live in Umoja Hall. Umoja Hall has a variety of room configurations, including single rooms, double rooms, and triple rooms.

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Faculty Information

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FAQ

1. What is Soka University known for?
The Soka University of America is bes known as one of the foremost Liberal arts Colleges in California and USA.

2. Is Soka University good?
The Soka University of America has been considered one of the best colleges to get one's money's worth.

3. What does Soka mean?
'Soka' is a Japanese word that means 'creating value'.

4. What is the tuition for Soka University?
As of 2022-23, the expenses of studying at the Soka University of America on-campus are USD 52,758 (INR 4,040,031), off-campus is USD 58,930 (INR 4,512,662), and at-home is USD 50,020 (INR 3,830,365). 

5. Is Soka University a Buddhist school?
No, it is a secular institution built on Buddhist values, like pacifism, creating value, human rights, and more.