Here’s what you need to know about the cost and value of a PLNU education — and the resources to help make it affordable. Parents, scroll down for our Parents & Families section for more on what to expect!
What Type of Student Are You?
I’m a High School Freshman, Sophomore, or Junior
Thanks for being proactive and considering PLNU early in your college search process! Providing you with a valuable, affordable education to prepare you for your future is our top priority.
The cost numbers you’ll see on this page are estimates that change year to year, but here are some key definitions you should know that’ll help make your college experience attainable.
- Financial Aid helps you afford college. Here are the types of aid you can receive:
- Scholarships are merit-based awards you can get for your strengths, activities, and more. Apply for as many as you can!
- Grants are free aid from the government that you don’t have to pay back.
- Loans are money borrowed from the government that you pay back over time, usually with interest.
- Work-study is employment for the university (like an on-campus job) that pays you directly.
- FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It helps to determine your family’s financial need to help you close the gap.
Read on to learn more about cost and why PLNU is an investment worth making.
I’m a High School Senior or Transfer Student
We know your college decision is an important one. PLNU aims to provide you with a strong and affordable education that helps you achieve your goals and grow into your individual calling. The info on this page provides this year’s breakdown to help you understand the cost & value of a PLNU education.
Check out our Parents and Families section below for more information about financial aid and affording a PLNU education. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to Student Financial Services if you have any questions!
Here's What PLNU Costs:
$31,605 per semester
Estimated Cost* for First Year and Transfer Students
Estimated Cost for Commuter Students: $24,545
*Tuition varies for our nursing majors. See tuition for nursing students. Room and Board fees are based on a shared room and mid-priced meal plan. Dorm Fund Fee pays for residence hall activities and laundry machines. See our Costs page for full breakdown.
BUT THAT’S THE STICKER PRICE
THE COST FOR MOST STUDENTS IS LOWER.
Average Financial Aid: $15,220 per semester
Financial aid includes scholarships and grants (free aid you don’t have to pay back) and loans (which you’ll pay back over time).
Our team maximizes the aid you receive. Make sure to stay up to date on important deadlines so we can help keep PLNU affordable. See our “Parents & Families” section below for your financial aid to-do list!
Why PLNU is worth it
PLNU is Invested in You as a Person
We prioritize your:
- Academic success
- Spiritual growth
- Community impact
- Career readiness
PLNU is Celebrated For Its Quality
2025 Rankings by Niche:
- #1 Christian College in CA, #6 in U.S.
- #3 College Locations in CA, #19 in U.S.
- #9 in Colleges for Business, Education, Finance in CA
PLNU Grads are Successful
PLNU Graduates:
- Have successful careers
- Leverage San Diego Connections
- Manage their debt successfully
For Parents and Families
Families like yours are sending students to PLNU for a life changing education. See the range:
An Investment Unlike Any Other
We know how important it is to be able to afford your college education.
That’s why we rely on financial support from alumni, donors, churches, and other organizations to keep PLNU as affordable as possible.
Financial Aid To-do List:
- Be sure to fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) so you can find out what aid your family is eligible for.
- Check out our scholarships, including:
- Merit-based awards
- Athletic, debate, and music scholarships
- Diversity Leadership Scholarship
- Endowed awards
- Outside scholarships
- Explore our work study opportunities, including on-campus employment
- Reach out to your admissions counselor for next steps!
Office of Student Financial Services
Looking for additional information about financial aid, important deadlines, required forms, billing, and more?