Reviews

The courses at APU are amazing classes that stretch your intellect. I've learned so much over the course of the past year because my professors are wonderful people who know what they're teaching and are there for their students. APU is a Christian college and my Bible classes are SO intriguing. It's amazing how an academic study of the Bible can challenge what you thought you knew!

I absolutely love Azusa Pacific. When I first saw the size of my dorm room last year, I was a little worried how three girls were going to live there; but I wouldn't change the experience for anything. I bonded with those girls and all the girls on my hall. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The weather is great, the beach is close, the mountains are closer and the atmosphere is all-around perfect.

WOW! may be what you were thinking when you saw the cost of APU, but let me tell you; you get everything you're paying for... and more. I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to afford APU but the financial aide team was confident I would be able to. I am so glad that I made the decision to attend APU because my education is one thing I will not take lightly. I'm dishing out a good amount of money but it is SO SO SO worth it.

My tip for you is to really make sure attending a Christian college is right for you. I've seen so many students come here and absolutely hate it because we're required to take Bible classes and attend Chapel. If you're ready to jump into rigorous academic and Biblical study APU is the place for you.

Students who are looking to deepen their relationship with Christ, students who'd like to know more about religion, students who are ready to reach out and touch the community, and students who are willing to step out of their comfort zones for God are the students that APU is looking for. Everyone, no matter your race, gender, or religion are welcome at APU. If you have it on your heart to come here, then APU is the right place for you.

The academics here in Azusa are challenging to say the least. Being a private Liberal arts school, we have smaller classes that allow the professors to get more hands in all different areas of the academic spectrum. The classes require much more than purely studying and test taking. Personally, I think that is a much more rewarding and enriching experience. Having opportunities to redeem yourself after a bad test with some other course work really pays off for the students who don't do their best on tests. Along with more opportunities to raise your grade, you have classroom experiences that allow for conversation and student interaction to be the central focus. The teachers here are here to help you learn the most that you can, not just push you through a system on to the next phase of life. Though you may be frustrated with your teachers and the job they may be doing, look beyond that and see how they attempt to assist you. I am in a Pre-med like major, which has been extremely challenging to excel in. I just finished a course less than a week ago that required many hours of study, days in advance to only receive a B in the course. Though the grade did not meet my expectation of my effort it can be found elsewhere with the vast amount of knowledge that I walked away with. Most courses here are similar. They require a lot but the satisfaction of completion and knowledge gained is irreplaceable!

Along with the academics, the overall aura on campus is unlike anything I have ever experienced. I guarantee me along with everyone else on campus will say that the community is the most amazing thing that they have ever experienced. I’m sure that you can look at any of the other student’s reviews for this school. People truly are sincere in all that they are, whether they are students, staff, faculty, or adjunct. I have not heard of another school where you personally get to know the President and his amazing Godly heart on such a personal level. (Go J Dub!) You have to search a bit to find your specific place but you can most definitely find a people group or circle of friends that will love you and befriend you like never before. I return you end up learning great lessons of humility and servanthood to take and apply to all aspects of your life.
The greatest thing about the university that you will notice is how people love to be doing things and having a good time. Since arriving on campus, I have seen more, experienced more, laughed more, and basically lived a more wholesome life than I could ever imagine. This place is a magical place that you have to buy into and sit tight because the God this student body and myself serves takes you through experiences unimaginable.

Let’s face it, college is expensive, APU is more expensive. It is private, and with that means lack of state funding. The school however completely makes up for it. Almost everything on campus is new, being renovated or being improved somehow. This is a school that seriously puts its money to the test and does some really amazing things with it. You almost start to become greedy and expect everything to be perfect. Honestly, I know that a lot of students have had a doubt when applying or having to fork out that much money. The thing about it all is that the financial aid office does all that it can and student employment is almost endless. There are plenty of ways to make this school work and every single cent is worth it. There are great food options, great events put on by the school, fantastic learning environments, and cutting edge technology. As a Science major, I have been informed that we received a new science that has all the capabilities that USC does in research. APU does not take its education lightly at all and makes sure to put its money towards things that you can really appreciate and take advantage of.

There are many tips and suggestions I would have for an incoming student but some of the most important things I told my orientation group was to make the experience what you want it to be. If you want to play sports, if you want to have a large group of friends, if you want to be a leader on campus, if you want to be involved in an organization or program go do it and God will take care of the rest. Honestly you will have no difficulty feeling included or being connected to campus if you put yourself out there just a slight bit. There are many opportunities and events on campus. More than I have heard of from my friends and their college experiences. Believe it or not literally everyone on campus would love to help you or assist you in any way possible all you have to do is just ask. I have never been surrounded by so many quality people at one time. There shouldn't be many worries about being a prospect at this school. Any question or concern you have can be answered and assisted by anyone affiliated with the school.

Honestly everyone could fit in at this school. We don't necessarily have a specific cookie cutter mold that you have to fit. There are many out of state students that attend here which adds to the diversity. The only requirement that I believe that would be necessary is that you have an open and receptive heart to the Christian lifestyle. There are many on-fire Christians at this school that might catch you off guard if you have never been exposed but they definitely should not intimidate you. You are not required to be a Christian but that doesn't mean that you can go about living any which way you please. The university wants to maintain its reputation of its motto to have God First. It goes all the way up to our president who constantly shows us a God driven heart to care for each and everyone person. If you can just buy into the mission you will enjoy your experience to the utmost. It says in the most cliche verse of the whole Bible, John 3:16, that ...God so loved the WORLD..., the entire world and that is what we are called to do as Christians as difficult and challenging as that may be but with the strength and love that God empowers us with each and every person will feel a sense of belonging.

Some people who may not enjoy this experience are ones that dislike:

Warm weather
Suburban areas
Required Chapel attendances (3 a week)
Required Community service (120 credits by graduation)
Required Bible Courses
Having a good time! haha

Like I said, this school only requires an open and willing heart ready to listen and act on the way God is pushing or pulling you. Sit back, relax and enjoy our Creators wild ride!!!

I learned that this university not only cares about your academics, but also your spirituality. At first, I was kind of at shock with their chapel programs and prayers before class because I have not been exposed to it before, but I grew to appreciate the things they do to keep everyone united in a way. I learned to be more open to everything and everyone.

I love the atmosphere, my fellow classmates, the faculty, and staff. Everyone makes you feel welcome. The professors are down-to-earth and are willing to help. The students are very friendly and you can strike a conversation with anyone just by saying hello. We are kind of like one big family.

As much as I love this school, it's very pricey. I just hope I can finish the nursing program without going bankrupt and get a job to pay for school. Then again, we have a new science center and transportation between both campuses. It's really a win-lose situation.

However, I guess there would be more bang for the buck because of the increase of the tuition in public universities would probably cost as much as or more than APU.

1. Be open to Christianity.
2. Be friendly because everyone is friendly.
3. Avoid all-nighters because it messes up your immune system. (I should know better as a nursing major...)
4. Don't be afraid to ask for advice from professors. They don't bite.
4. Save, save, save your money! Apply for financial aid! APU is a great school with a big price.

This school is good for anyone regardless of race, gender, or religion. Just have an open mind about Christianity.

Very impressive academics!

A great campus with friendly students and professors. I loved every minute of my preview weekends! Everyone is so helpful and welcoming! I can't wait to be at APU in the Fall!

Amazing school, but very expensive. Worth the cost, but it definitely hurts my parent's bank account. Sorry Mom and Dad!

Anyone who is interested in going to school in a warm, sunny place.
Anyone who likes Southern California.
Anyone who is a Christian.
Anyone who dislikes legalistic schools.

As a nursing major, science classes have a lot of information that I have had to learn, but science is not the only thing I have learned. I have learned more than I expected this past year, I have learned more about life and fostering greater relationships with others.

I love APU! I never had a specific college in mind when applying, but after visiting APU and feeling the sense of community and how much they want you to succeed, I felt it was a perfect place to start my life as an 18 year old college student seeking out a new road in life.

Azusa Pacific University is worth every penny. I get the help I need and because of the small size they are willing to work with you on a personal basis. Almost every professor has known me by name and if I had a question regarding something they would always make time to talk to me.

If you are seeking a great sense of community and scholarship in a institution based on a religious foundation APU is the perfect place. I am Roman Catholic and the way the school practices religion may be different from the way I practice mine, but the school models a loving attitude and completely respects others' beliefs and opinions.

It is a great for all who want to receive a quality education in a University that holds Christ, Scholarship, Community and Service as their cornerstones.

One of the greatest attributes I can ascribe to this university is the quality and depth of the education to be received. Not only will you abound in learning in the academic sense as you continue to gain insight and perception regarding your newfound knowledge, but you will come to learn a great deal about yourself and about God on both a personal and spiritual level. As you discover your strengths, come to the fruition of your spiritual gifts, and align these with your unique personality, you will be able to utilize and maximize your potential for success. The passion present in each of the professors demeanor, intentions, and actions, rooted and educed in the essence of their teaching, is evidently provoked in a sincere, loving, and challenging manner. Amidst rigorous Bible courses and intriguing course work for your major, you will find yourself immersed within the confines of an incredible and indescribable opportunity to receive an education unlike any other. For, at the center of this education rests the motto, “God First,” a statement and priority which proves to hold true even amidst the classroom setting as professors strive to make God the source and center of everything they do, say, and teach. The openness of class discussions and the small faculty to student ratio makes for a wonderful opportunity to connect and grow in a zesty and flavor-filled learning environment.

Having finished my first semester as a college freshman, I have sincerely and thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of my experience at Azusa Pacific University and look forward to a spectacular journey ahead and continual growth in the future, both academically and spiritually. It is truly a blessing to thrive and flourish at a place like APU and I am so thankful to be pursuing my undergraduate degree here. Being a Christian non-denominational college, you will have the opportunity to be exposed to a wide variety of church traditions and denominations and will be able to come out of your college experience with a faith you can call as your own. Whether on the trolley stop, at the Dining Hall, in the dorms, or to and from classes, the sense and presence of community here is evidenced by the kindness and genuineness portrayed in the interactions and relationships between students on both a social and personal level. In addition, faculty and staff members are always willing to invest time and energy in their students, especially if students are willing to be the instigators to pursue those meaningful relationships or mentorships. Amidst gorgeous California weather, a scenic mountain backdrop, a large but close-knit collection of diverse students from in-state, out-of-state, and abroad, and a plethora of opportunities and ways to get involved in both the university and surrounding community, Azusa Pacific offers an unforgettable and thrilling college experience with memories lasting a lifetime and with knowledge breeding sagacity.

Attending Azusa Pacific University is expensive and I will not try to convince you otherwise. However, money should not serve as the final decision maker and determinant of where you go to college. If, when looking to purchase a product, the value outweighs the price, people tend to buy the product. Likewise, because Azusa Pacific is very high in quality and value, and the return on your investment, measured by all you will come to learn and experience, is much greater and immeasurably more than the cost of tuition for four years could ever be, students tend to ‘buy’ into this unbelievable product.

As you prepare to envelop yourself in one of the biggest investments of your life—a college education—desire and intend to make the most out of every opportunity and hold fast to every last experience you are able to grasp. Tap into the resources available to you and get involved. In addition, get to know your professors on a more personal level. After all, they have much to offer and can help you and further you more than you can imagine. Set studying and the completion of assignments, papers, and essays as a top priority, but do not let your studies prevent you from forming meaningful friendships. Take time to be joyful and celebrate. Since college can be stressful, make a habit of practicing the discipline of living an unhurried life from time to time in order to relieve yourself of any disorientation or trauma your hectic schedule may be causing you.

Azusa Pacific University is intended for those who do not wish to be content with where they are at in their relationship with Christ as well as for those who do not yet have a relationship with Christ. It is a place for students who wish to be stretched and challenged and who desire the very best out of both themselves and the college they are investing their time, hard work, and money into. This college is for any student who longs to make a lasting impact on the world around them. If you are a leader or an achiever, this is the place for you. If you are not yet confident in your ability to lead or achieve, this place will transform the perception you have of yourself and will make you into what you never thought you could be.

One of the things I value most about APU is how wonderful the professors are! They challenge ideas we may have grown up believing, but in an environment that will support us as we learn to make our own decisions in philosophy, religion, history, etc. They challenge your thinking while providing some cushioning so you don't go insane with worry about having any beliefs rattled. All the classes I have taken are worth it!

I love everyone I've met here! People are really open to making new friends and are interested in YOU. At first I thought it was fake, but after talking to people, I have really seen a genuine love in people here. As I said, the professors are great! The school does a great job at planning a lot of events for students like mini carnivals and games for living areas. They require everyone to get involved in a ministry and you can volunteer with kids, elderly people, in urban areas, with food banks, environmental issues, etc. There really is so much to choose from! They also have a lot of clubs like AMIGOS, BSA (Black Student Awareness), Best Buddies, etc. Also, we have student advising every semester where we meet with an adviser who gives us advice on what classes we're taking and makes sure we're on the right track. I really appreciate that because many of my friends at state schools wish they could make an appointment with an adviser, but have to wait in line for hours. Everyone is willing to help! They also have job fairs for graduating seniors. For example, I'm a Liberal Studies major and when I graduate, I can attend the job fair where various schools who are hiring come to campus!

Although APU can be pricey, and it's a struggle to keep up with the payments, I could not imagine myself at any other school. This is the school for me!

Keep looking for scholarships and be in contact with your department! Don't be afraid to speak up in class, professors love when you put in your thoughts. Make sure you try and get involved and it will be extremely easy to make new friends.

APU is for students who want to learn about different denominations and Biblical interpretations. It's for students who are willing to go to Chapel three times a week and take Bible classes that will go deeper than what you learn in church. I have even come across a few students who don't even believe in God but love the on-campus community and are simply curious about Christianity.

I was very scared to start college. I did not think that I could keep up in the classes or manage the work load, but it turns out with good time management and focus it is possible! In high school I was a B and C student, but here at APU I am getting all A's and one B. The professors here are top notch and care about each of their students.

I love the campus and class size and have truly enjoyed each and every professor I've had this semester. It brightens up my day to see that almost every student walks around with a smile and looks happy to be at APU. As a Catholic at a Christian school it can sometimes be challenging, but APU is welcoming to all religions. Overall, I do not think I would enjoy being anywhere else.

Like most other private universities APU is not cheap. One of the greatest things about APU though is that they are very generous with their scholarships. I am from a single parent household and my mom does not make a large amount of money yet my twin sister and I have been able to afford going to APU and living on campus. Do not let money stop you from considering this school!

You definitely want to try and get a tour of the campus. For a lot of students that has either been the deal maker or the deal breaker. You also should sign up for an All Access preview weekend! That is the best way to decide if APU is the right school for you.

Students that are looking for:

GREAT community
Many different educational and ministry opportunities
Challenging classes that are still manageable
Excellent professors!

Azusa is a home away from home, with a friendly community and amazing professors who care about each student. There are two campuses, and students can travel between them by bike, skateboard, or trolley. It's hard to beat the beautiful Southern California weather all year long!

Apply for scholarships! Get to know your professors, get involved on campus, and stay focused.

Azusa is not ranked super high nationally, but the professors and classes are sufficient.

The RA's had decorated the common areas like a board straight from Pinterest, adding a homey, cheerful touch to the dorms. The community is accepting and friendly, so new students are welcomed wholeheartedly.

The food options are limited, especially for vegetarians.

Catch a football game in Azusa's own stadium. Join intramural sports, clubs, and other activities.

Tuition is pricey but generous scholarships are available for those who apply.

If you miss your pet from back home, you can visit the turtle pond and watch your new favorite friends swim and bask in the sun.

Christians and those who love to serve and live in community.

Plenty of activities and clubs are available.

The campus feels safe.

APU is a great place to grow in your faith, meet amazing people, and develop into the person you will be for the rest of your life. With guest speakers, they are able to open you up to seeing the world in a different perspective and be inspired to learn more about your faith. You will meet so many amazing people here, people who will support you and and you may even meet your future spouse.

APU is a place for academic success, spiritual growth, and making a difference in the world one you leave here. The faculty is here to make sure that happens but you have to be willing to try.

I will be honest, the courses are tough. APU wants to challenge you both academically and spiritually. As long as you pay attention during your classes and do your assignments, you should pass. If you have trouble with the class, your professor is there to help you in any way they can. In one of my classes, I got a low grade on one of my exams and my professor wrote a note saying to ask her if I needed any help preparing for the next one. The professors care about you and your success. The class sizes are small so you are able to get to know the professors and they get to know you.

The RA's take their job seriously in making sure each freshman feels welcome here. They set up many different events that you have the option to participate in such as: GYRAD (Get Your Roommate A Date), My Tie (guys send their ties up the elevator to the girl's floor and they pick one which ends up being their date for the night), and others as well.
So far, everyone is super friendly and its easy to make friends with everyone who lives in your building. Of course, every year the freshman will be different in their personality and how they mesh but overall, the people that you meet here are so friendly and welcoming.

The food is decent. It does get old after a while though. There are certain things at the different venues on campus that are good though., but the dining venues are: Umai Sushi (which is on West Campus), The Den which serves pizzas, burgers, grilled cheeses, etc.), The Dining Hall (ordinary cafeteria food.... I personally only eat breakfast here), The Grill (this is also on West Campus and they serve both chinese and burgers and such), Cornerstone Coffeehouse (pretty much a starbucks on campus but they make amazing smoothies too), Paws and Go (a small store that sells snacks and drinks along with small packs of advil or toiletries in case of an emergency), The Market ( pretty much the same thing as Paws and Go but they have more breakfast items and an AMAZING milkshake machine), and Mexicali (APU's version of Chipotle, it's pretty good and most of the time the best choice for lunch or dinner).

Within my first couple months here, I probably went to the beach 5 or 6 times. Having the beach not much more than an hour away makes it nice for a day trip to just get away for a little while. You can choose between Santa Monica, Newport, Huntington, Laguna, and Long Beach. There's probably other areas you can go to but those are the main/well known beaches that evenness goes to.

Disneyland and Six Flags are also pretty close and a lot of students here get season passes because they are able to go so many times.

Pasadena is only about 25 minutes away which makes it nice to go and explore on days when you don't have class and you want to have fun for free:)

There are mountains behind the school which is good for the people that like to hike because there are plenty of trails. If you're someone from a place like Colorado, you'd think the mountains are wimpy. Sorry, this is California, get used to it.

Overall, there's a lot you can do in the surrounding area so you'll always have something to do. :)

This school is expensive but what do you expect, it is a private school. APU does give a lot of financial aid so there's no way that you will be paying the full $40K.

Each class is challenging and enjoyable in its own way but sometimes they will get boring. If you graduate with a degree and end up with the job you want, then yes, APU is worth it.

APU is a Christian school. it is a requirement that you attend chapel 3 times a week but you are allowed 10 absences for each semester. Its is so easy to get your 3 requirements because there are at least 5 services offered every week.
APU takes your spiritual life very seriously and there will even be professors who will pray before the class begins. Don't worry if you're not religious because I think that this allows you to learn about Christianity and decide what you believe and don't believe in.

I have not joined any clubs because I am a student athlete but there are so many clubs and things going on. There are weekend hiking/backpacking trip that you can do, preview weekends for the High Sierra study abroad semester, mission trips/outreach trips and so much more. There are so many ways that you can get involved!

There is no greek life for students unless your a Bio major and the fraternities are for pre-med or pre-dental and they are mainly for networking and professional purposes. Other than that, APU does not offer any greek life.

APU Campus Safety is very efficient in sending out information on crimes in the area and also allow the students to join Campus Safety to monitor the campus.
From my personal experience, the campus is safe, I have walked alone and nothing has happened but of course things do happen just like on any college campus, but it is A LOT less likely to happen here.