American Jewish University Admissions

While AJU does not require students to submit test scores from the SAT or ACT for admissions, students can submit these scores if they are interested in some of the scholarships offered by the school. To apply, students must submit an application, a high school transcript, and a letter of recommendation. Students can either submit an application with the school, or use the Common Application. In addition, applicants have the option to submit a second letter of recommendation, and they can set up an interview with an admissions counselor.

Admissions Data (2016):

• American Jewish University Acceptance Rate: 60 percent
• American Jewish University has test-optional admissions
• Test Scores -- 25th / 75th Percentile
  • SAT Critical Reading: - / -
  • SAT Math: - / -
  • SAT Writing: - / -
    • What's a good SAT score?
  • ACT Composite: - / -
  • ACT English: - / -
  • ACT Math: - / -
    • What's a good ACT score?

American Jewish University Description:

In 2007, the University of Judaism and the Brandeis-Bardin Institute merged, creating the American Jewish University. Located in Los Angeles, California, AJU provides degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. At the Whizin Center for Continuing Education, students of all ages may take courses in a range of subjects; while these courses carry no credits, they are taken for edification and enjoyment. 

With art galleries, extensive libraries, sculpture gardens, performing art spaces, and a number of student activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy and learn from at AJU. Home to roughly 200 students, AJU boasts an impressive student / faculty ratio of 4 to 1. Dedicated to teaching and sharing Judaism, AJU offers a five-year training program at the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies; AJU is also affiliated with and oversees Camp Alonim and Gan Alonim Day Camp--two camps that allow children of all ages to explore and learn about the Jewish faith and traditions.

Enrollment (2016):

• Total Enrollment: 159 (65 undergraduates)
• Gender Breakdown: 46 percent male / 54 percent female
• 94 percent full-time

Costs (2016 - 17):

• Tuition and Fees: $30,338
• Books: $1,791 (why so much?)
• Room and Board: $16,112
• Other Expenses: $3,579
• Total Cost: $51,820

American Jewish University Financial Aid (2015 - 16):

• Percentage of New Students Receiving Aid: 82 percent
• Percentage of New Students Receiving Types of Aid
  • Grants: 82 percent
  • Loans: 55 percent
• Average Amount of Aid
  • Grants: $10,899
  • Loans: $6,760

Academic Programs:

• Most Popular Majors: Psychology, Business Management, Biology, Philosophy and Religious Studies, Theology

Transfer, Graduation and Retention Rates:

• First Year Student Retention (full-time students): 88 percent
• 4-Year Graduation Rate: 31 percent
• 6-Year Graduation Rate: 44 percent

Data Source:

National Center for Educational Statistics

If You Like American Jewish University, You May Also Like These Schools:

For students interested in a college founded in Judaism, other options in the country include Touro College and List College (Jewish Theological Seminary of America), both located in New York City.

If you're looking for a small (less than 1,000 students) school on the west coast with an academic or religious focus, Holy Names University, Columbia College Hollywood, Soka University of America, and Warner Pacific College are all good options to consider.  

AJU and the Common Application

American Jewish University uses the Common Application. These articles can help guide you:

• Common Application essay tips and samples
• Short answer tips and samples
• Supplemental essay tips and samples