Biola University Reviews

Naomi

from La Mirada, CA

Current student

How are you enjoying your time at this college?

First, the community is so strong at Biola University. I see friends all the time in the library, the cafeteria, and walking to classes. I also enjoy all the classes offered and have enjoyed learning from the professors! In addition, the beach, Disneyland, Knotts Berry Farm, and LA are all within 30 minutes of campus so there is always something to do both on and off campus!

In what ways do you feel this college challenges students academically?

Biola cares a lot about creating an environment that challenges and grows students and helps them reach their goals and potential. There is a lot of reading especially if you join the Torrey Honors College. There is a lot of writing essays as well. Students are encouraged to schedule office hours with professors and the professors have a genuine desire to help their students succeed. Many classes emphasize discussion-based learning and socratic discussions are a common practice in the classroom.

How would you describe the food and dining options?

There are a few dining locations at Biola as well as the cafeteria (or as we call it "the Caf!") The Caf has multiple "restaurants" including a grill, a salad bar, and a few others. The cafeteria is not open all the time, but the regular hours are usually 7am-8pm. There are two coffee shops on campus, one that sells Starbucks coffee and also has freshly made juices, smoothies, and acai bowls. There is also a dining location that has everything from burrito bowls to burgers to salads. The coffee shops are usually open until midnight, but if not, there are also quite a few popular restaurants off campus surrounding Biola.

Are there any quirky or unique traditions that make your college special?

One of Biola's favorite traditions is Mock Rock which is a lip sync battle and almost everyone goes to watch! The teams practice until midnight the weeks leading up to the event and it is a lot of fun. Another tradition is Nationball which is a school wide dodgeball game between the different housing dorms. We also have a Christmas Tree Lighting every year which is a great time for community and to get in the holiday spirit.

Christine

a current student here

Categories	Comments
Am learning a lot	I have learned more during my Freshman year at Biola than I did any other year of high school. Not only have I been challenged in my Bible, General Education, and Intercultural Studies classes, but I have learned how a college student needs to prioritize academics, which includes good study habits.
Am enjoying being here	Being a resident at Biola is a huge part of the college experience for me! I love living with friends in a community that is committed to moral excellence. Most students who live at Biola want to be here and have not been forced or manipulated to come, which makes resident life very fun. I'm enjoying it so much that I'm going to be an RA next year!
Bang for the buck	Biola is very expensive and, at times, difficult to pay for. However, having class with the professor who actually wrote the book we're reading is amazing and makes me feel that my tuition dollars are being used well.
Tips for prospective students	If you want to be a part of a community that will challenge and encourage you to be excellent in whichever field you choose, you will love it at Biola. However, if you are not a Christian and are not willing to be a Bible minor, Biola is not for you, as these are requirements for all students.
Great for these types of students	Biola is great for students that are interested in Christian ministries, medical fields, liberal arts, or arts and media.

Meg from NH

a current student here

Categories	Comments
Am learning a lot	I attend the Torrey Honors Institute, a four-year program of reading and discussing the classics. It is a grounding in America's culture and thought and a means of discussing the good, the true, and the beautiful. All classes are taught by professionals in their fields, yet they care about the students and are always willing to spend time with us.
Am enjoying being here	I get homesick being three thousand miles from home, but not as much as you might think. The other students are almost universally friendly and willing to hang out and do favors. The cafeteria is cheap, filling, and delicious.
Bang for the buck	Biola is very expensive. However, the quality of education is good and the community is wonderful. Get scholarships, get financial aid, but don't be afraid to go.
Tips for prospective students	Biola has said that they'll never turn away a student who fits the basic qualifications (one is that the student be a Christian) and genuinely wants to go. So apply!
Great for these types of students	Those who want to be stretched mentally and relationally and who want to have an impact on the world. Not great for those who are being made to attend school and would rather party.

Marco from Palmdale, CA

a current student here

Categories	Comments
Am learning a lot	A lot is an understatement to describe the amount of learning a student does at Biola. What is so unique and wonderful about this school is that you have the opportunity to receive top notch education from a high profile faculty on not only general subjects like math, English, and the sciences, but also on a wide variety of biblically based courses. Biola does not describe it's education as Biblically Centered for nothing. Education there really is biblically centered! There is not one class where Faith and Theology are not incorporated into the curriculum. Even though that might sound odd, learning about the bible in math class?!, it is most definitely not impossible. It is a great learning environment for those who are really interested in being prepared not only for their career of choice, but also in impacting the world for Christ!
Am enjoying being here	What can I say about my time spent there? I would not want to attend anywhere else! The campus is small and warming. It is easy to get to know people and there are many activities year round that allow for the flourishing of great friendships with the most wonderful people ever. I cannot be more excited about returning to school after a long hot summer to see and spend time with great friends on a wonderful campus! Time spent here is time well spent! And do not even get me started on the buffet-style cafeteria! Like I said, time spent at Biola is definitely time well spent!
Bang for the buck	Please DO NOT let this intimidate you or keep you from enjoying one of the greatest experiences and blessings ever! Biola can be and is an expensive university, but IT IS really WORTH IT! The education received there is of top quality. You truly get what you paid for! It can be hard sometimes, but financial aid is ALWAYS available for those willing to make an effort. Don't give up on such a great school just because of the money. As a prospective student, Biola was way out of my league (money-wise), but deciding to give it a shot was the best decision I ever took! Trust me, you will NOT regret choosing Biola! The money will one way or another, always come, Biola will not! Think about it.
Tips for prospective students	Do not be discouraged by the different things you hear about the school. Go for yourself and get to know the place. Different people will have different opinions on what is great and what is not so great about the school. One thing is for sure though, most people have a positive opinion about how great Biola is! Don't believe me? Go see it for yourself! I trust you won't be disappointed.
Great for these types of students	This is a great place for students looking to attend a small and cozy university. It is a wonderful school for those searching to not only expand their knowledge in the general subjects, but also explore the roots and foundations of Christian Theology and strengthen their Faith in Christ. It is for those that are genuinely looking for Biblically Centered Education.

Angela from Claremont, CA

a current student here

Categories	Comments
Am learning a lot	My experience in learning here at Biola is incredibly amazing. Biola has thought me how to manage my time and challenge me through the courses I take. For example, I am not a big fan with essays and I have always done poorly, but I have been improving and learning how to organize and proofread my paper here at Biola from a place called Writing Center at the library. It is free, and I often go to get my papers checked. Learning can be fun.
Am enjoying being here	Being at Biola and othe Chritsitan believers help me become a better perosn. I believe that is why I enjoy being here. Not only does friends care about you, but professors as well. Professors who care about me and pray for me, I think are the most wonderful professors at this school. What I also enjoy about this school, is the clean, safe, and pretty campus. I really enjoy taking a walk at night or running around campus, quietly.
Bang for the buck	As for most people here at Biola, we struggle with financial aid. Biola is no joke with money, it is highly expensive. Honestly, nobody has to worry, Biola has different kinds of contract that can be avilable for you and your family for paying off the tuition. You can always to work-study, outside employment, scholarship and/or etc.
Tips for prospective students	PREPARE TO BE WELCOMED WITH LOTS OF LOVE!
Great for these types of students	believe Jesus Christ our Savior died on the cross for us. No other types, strong Christian believers belong here.

Nigel from South Gate, CA

accepted here and planning to attend soon

Categories	Comments
In three sentences	Biola University is a magnificent place that truly cares about the student, and does not view them as numbers. It is a place to grow spiritually, and grow closer to God as well as making lifelong friendships during your college journey. The academics are also outstanding, and may lead you to success in your career and future endeavors elsewhere.
Tips for prospective students	Make sure to visit campus in order to ensure that Biola is the appropriate fit for you.
Academic Rigor	Biola is highly ranked in the US World and News Report, and will prepare you for success in your career field of choice.
Dorm Life	The dorms at Biola are very nice and have furniture. I recommend that when you visit, you should definitely check out the different residence halls.
Food and Dining	The food here at Biola is fantastic, and is very healthy compared to that of other colleges I am currently considering.
What to do for fun	Southern California = Disneyland, the beach, etc. If you choose to live on campus, your respective dorm may have various activities throughout the year. There are also various activities and clubs for your enjoyment as well.
Bang for the buck	The financial aid I have been rewarded is definitely sufficient enough for me to be seriously considering attending Biola. I do wish they could have given me a bit more so I would not be worrying about taking loans.
Great for these types of students	Christian, hard-working, and those who value community
Clubs and Activities	Something to do for everyone
Campus Safety	I felt very safe when I visited campus.

Christine from Washington

a current student here

Categories	Comments
Am learning a lot	The professors really care about the students, which makes the learning environment unlike any other large university! The Biblical studies classes range in size from 20-200 people, but in each, you feel the professor really wanting to connect with you personally and wanting to see you grow both academically and spiritually. All of the professors in all areas of study are dedicated to your growth and care deeply about each student they have in their classroom. Many even pray for their students individually on a daily basis! The general atmosphere and community on campus between faculty and students and among students is incredible!
Am enjoying being here	I never thought I would like being at Biola so much. It amazed me how much I love the friends I have made, the faculty I have studied under, and the quality of the courses. Community is really important at Biola and integrity as a student is essential, and I think that those standards create an environment to learn and live in that inspires you to be all you were created to be. Being at Biola teaches you how to view God, yourself, and the world around you rightly so that you can graduate and impact that world with an eternal perspective. Bottom line: it's awesome.
Bang for the buck	Yes, Biola is expensive. However, I would say it is definitely worth it. Just be aware of awards in your department you could potentially receive as well as scholarships outside school (use cappex!). There is a way to make the financial aspect of going to Biola work, you just need to be diligent in searching out aid. But it is definitely worth the work!
Tips for prospective students	- Be open to the growth that will inevitably happen - Don't let opportunities presented at Biola pass you by - You will be surrounded by intelligent, caring professors who are scholars in their field, ask questions! - Pour into others as your friends and professors pour into you - Have fun :)
Great for these types of students	Biola is great for students who are open and willing to grow academically and spiritually in a Christ-centered environment.

Ruth from Riverside, CA

a current student here

Categories	Comments
Am learning a lot	My professors care. I cannot say bad things about the Education major because my professors have been such a huge help! They really try to help us juggle school and play and life outside of Biola. They provide resources and help when needed. I am truly grateful for each of them. I am learning a lot, so much in fact that my mind would explode if it weren't built to process all this information! ;)
Am enjoying being here	Every dorm and floor has it's unique environment. So far, I've had a blast and met friends I know I will have for the rest of my life! There is always some event going on whether it be a sports game or art exhibit. Campus is never dull, especially with an egg hidden around campus that every dorm wants to find!
Bang for the buck	Pricey? Definitely. Worth it? For me, YES! It really depends on you. Anywhere you go really. If you are into school and want to learn then you will learn to be a god steward of money and appreciate the education. You can make the most of the money you invest or let it go to waste. It's up to you.
Tips for prospective students	VISIT. You need to get a feel for it. You need to know what you are getting into. If you don't want to attend 30 chapels in a semester or take 30 units of Bible classes then consider going elsewhere. Don't come and try to fight the rules or get around them. It's not right and you won't win. You'll just get kicked out. KNOW WHAT YOU'RE GETTING INTO AND MAKE SURE YOU AGREE WITH THE CONTRACT.
Great for these types of students	Independent, motivated, out going, want to make a difference, want to achieve great things, love God and desire to grow in their faith!

Katelyn from Salinas, CA

a current student here

Categories	Comments
Am learning a lot	This is my second year at Biola and I have learned a tremendous amount in regards to my major, my faith, myself, and the Bible. Because of the Communication Disorders program I have enjoyed learning, knowing that I will be able to become a speech pathologist. I have also grown an unexplainable amount in my faith and have become more self- aware throughout the daily situations, chapels, and challenges Biola presents. I've learned in the Bible classes as well, they have been an opportunity to see God in different angles and to be so in awe of His Majesty. In addition to all this, I was in Torrey Honors Institute my Freshman year (which is equivalent to a prestigious school) and now value learning so much that after class some days my heart would be racing praises to God that He gave me the capacity to understand a glimpse of how much there is to know.
Am enjoying being here	There is simply no other place I would rather be than Biola University. Every opportunity my school is brought up I love sharing about my experiences in the honors program, in classes, in the dorm, in my major, and as an Resident Assistant. I thoroughly enjoy every aspect of my wonderful school!
Bang for the buck	Attending college tends to be an expensive process and Biola is no exception. The jobs and loans I've acquired to be at Biola are disheartening because of how much it takes out of me. Even though each semester is questionable whether I could return because of how much it costs, I would say it has been well worth it. I think this school is a great investment.
Tips for prospective students	Be excited-Biola is such a welcoming community! My tip for prospective students would be to get involved on your floor, in clubs, in a missions trip, in a ministry, in chapel, or anyway you find fitting because the more involved the more you will enjoy your experience.
Great for these types of students	If you are questioning humanity's purpose in life and/or pursuing righteousness, I honestly think Biola will give you the most satiating answer.

a current student here

Categories	Comments
In three sentences	Biola helps you grow spiritually, educationally, and socially. This is just my first semester here and I already have a sense of what my purpose is in life. It's a safe place filled with amazing people; everyone is super friendly!
Tips for prospective students	Be ready for all the friendly faces! And be prepared to learn a LOT of names! Also, don't procrastinate...ever!
Academic Rigor	It's definitely challenging. But the work load isn't overwhelming. The professors keep in mind that students have more classes than just their own.
Dorm Life	I got paired with an amazing roommate from Korea! It is so fun learning about a new culture. The RA's plan events to get everyone involved in fun trips and to make new friends!
Food and Dining	There is always a good selection of food. Everyday there is somthing different. There are different sections in the Caf: homecooking, a grilled-food section, a salad and sandwhich bar, soups of the day, dessert, and there is always pizza
What to do for fun	The beach and Disneyland are about 20 min away from here! Also, there is a good frozen yogurt place down the street. There are different clubs: archery, beach bums, computer science, ASL, hide and seek, scuba divers and so many more!

Samantha from Milpitas, CA

a current student here

Categories	Comments
Am learning a lot	Biola has pretty much everything you could want in a Christian college. There is great community in the dorms along with the entire campus. The Biblical Studies department has wonderful teachers that make the 30 units apply to your life and more than just a requirement.
Am enjoying being here	There is such a great community in the dorms and all over campus. Each dorm has multiple all hall events that cam help you get to know the people in your dorm. Then the floors have events that include the Biola tradition of GYRAD (Get Your Roommate A Date) and floor retreat plus others. There are many opportunities for fun.
Bang for the buck	Biola is pretty expensive, but I would say that the atmosphere and community make it so worth it to go to Biola.
Tips for prospective students	If your parents can provide a car for you to use, it's helpful. It's not necessary because there is the grocery store and pharmacy walking distance from campus. A car makes it easier to go other places, but the chances are that you'll find a way to get there within your group.
Great for these types of students	God fearing and loving, hard working