Soka University of America
A good fit for students who want small classes and close faculty access. no major red flags in the data. exceptional 92% graduation rate; generous financial aid cuts net price well below sticker.
About This School
Soka University of America is a private nonprofit institution located in Aliso Viejo, California with approximately 484 undergraduate students enrolled. The school is moderately selective, accepting approximately 43% of applicants. The average net price after financial aid is $18,260 per year. The graduation rate is 92%.
Soka University of America (SUA) is a private liberal arts college in Aliso Viejo, California. Originally founded in 1987, it was established on its current campus in 2001 by Daisaku Ikeda, the founder of the Soka Gakkai International Buddhist movement. Though affiliated with Soka Gakkai, it maintains a secular curriculum which emphasizes pacifism, human rights, and the creative coexistence of nature and humanity.
This tiny liberal arts college — just 464 undergrads — punches above its weight with a 92% freshman retention rate and a median graduation debt of only $15,250, suggesting students are genuinely happy here and not drowning financially. Worth considering if you're drawn to a values-driven, globally focused curriculum centered on peace and human rights, but know that its Buddhist-affiliated founding mission gives the campus a distinct ideological flavor that won't suit everyone. The 70% acceptance rate means admission is accessible, but the real question is fit — this intimate, mission-specific environment is a strong match for the right student and potentially alienating for the wrong one.
Notable Alumni
Source: Wikidata. Used for context only.
Admissions
SAT Scores
ACT Scores
Cost & Financial Aid
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual cost after grants/scholarships, by household income. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Financial Aid
Full Cost
After Graduation
Will This School Pay Off?
Earnings data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. These are means across all graduates, not specific to any major.
Student Body
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (484 undergraduates).
Contact & Location
Official Links
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Sources & Methodology
Primary data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Accessed via automated sync. Latest values may come from different reporting years depending on the metric.
School overview from Wikipedia. Used for context only, not as a primary data source for admissions, cost, or outcomes claims.
- Earnings figures are institution-level averages, not major-specific.
- Some metrics are based on Title IV financial aid recipients only.
- Some values may be privacy-suppressed or rolled up by the Department of Education.
- Contact the school directly for current admissions requirements and costs.
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