Southwestern College SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
The 100% acceptance rate means Southwestern College is built for access, so your strategy should start with fit, affordability, and staying on track after enrollment. Because it is test-optional, use SAT or ACT scores only when they support placement, advising, or specific program goals. A strong academic plan matters here as much as the admit decision.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Southwestern College facts and stats
Southwestern College enrolls about 20,986 undergraduate students. Southwestern College has a 70% freshman retention rate. The campus is in an urban setting, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 26:1.
Chula Vista, CA

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Key Southwestern College application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
—
Early Action
Not offered
Early Decision
Not offered
Priority Deadline
—
Financial Aid Priority
March 2
Test dates
August 22, 2026
Registration deadline: August 7, 2026
September 12, 2026
Registration deadline: August 28, 2026
October 3, 2026
Registration deadline: September 18, 2026
September 19, 2026
Registration deadline: August 14, 2026
October 17, 2026
Registration deadline: September 11, 2026
December 12, 2026
Registration deadline: November 6, 2026
If you choose to submit SAT or ACT scores to Southwestern College, take your first test by the spring of junior year, then use the summer before senior year and the fall of senior year for superscore-focused retakes. Since Southwestern College is test-optional and does not offer Early Decision or Early Action, confirm the Regular Decision deadline before choosing your final fall retake.
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What you'll actually pay
Southwestern College is a public college with in-state tuition of $1,288 and out-of-state tuition of $9,296. To be considered for financial aid, submit the FAFSA by the March 2 priority deadline.

Southwestern College’s out-of-state tuition is $9,296, while in-state tuition is $1,288. With room and board estimated at $23,895, students should plan for housing and living costs to make up a large share of the total bill. Actual costs can vary based on financial need, aid eligibility, and whether students live on or off campus.
Student life at Southwestern College
Campus housing details coming soon.
No fraternity or sorority life on campus.
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