Acceptance Rate
66%
Avg. SAT
1070
75th percentile
“A small, faith-inspired haven in San Antonio where community drives learning and service shapes character.”
San Antonio, TX
Location
Large City
Campus Setting
Nestled on the west side of San Antonio, Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) carries a legacy of compassion and commitment since its founding in 1895 by the Sisters of Divine Providence. This private Catholic university was initially established to educate women, particularly those from underserved communities, and while it’s now co-ed, that mission of inclusion and service still pulses through campus life. OLLU’s intimate size, with just over 1,300 undergraduates, creates a tight-knit environment where personal attention isn’t just a promise—it’s a reality.
The school draws students who crave a sense of belonging and purpose, often those with a desire to make a difference through service or social impact. You’ll find a strong connection to faith here, though it’s welcoming to all backgrounds, with a focus on values like integrity and community. San Antonio itself adds a vibrant backdrop, blending rich cultural heritage with a bustling urban feel, though the campus can feel somewhat removed from downtown’s energy, requiring a bit of effort to fully explore the city.
One tradeoff is the smaller scale of resources compared to larger universities—think fewer sprawling facilities or extensive alumni networks. Some students might find the faith-based atmosphere or quieter campus vibe less dynamic if they’re seeking a big-school energy. Still, for those who value personal growth over flash, OLLU offers a unique space to build close relationships and find meaning in their education.
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Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Policy
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Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Degree Levels Offered
At Our Lady of the Lake University, academics are deeply rooted in a liberal arts foundation, with standout programs in social work, education, and counseling psychology. The university is particularly known for its graduate-level training in mental health fields, but undergrads benefit from a similar emphasis on hands-on, community-focused learning—think internships or service projects that tackle real local issues. You can expect small class sizes that encourage discussion and connection with professors who often double as mentors, fostering an environment where your voice matters.
Research opportunities exist, especially in social sciences, though they’re not as extensive as at larger institutions, and facilities might feel more modest. Some students may find the academic offerings narrower in scope, particularly if they’re set on niche STEM fields or highly specialized majors. Still, the focus here is on preparing you for meaningful careers, often in service-oriented roles, with a curriculum that weaves ethics and empathy into the learning experience.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
1,108 undergrad • 860 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
13%
Black / African American
11%
Hispanic / Latino
67%
Asian
1%
Other / Multi-racial
8%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
San Antonio, TX
Varsity Athletics
Campus life at OLLU feels like a small, supportive family, where you’re likely to know many faces by name within weeks. Traditions like the annual Fiesta Oyster Bake—a massive community event with food, music, and fundraising—bring everyone together, blending San Antonio’s cultural flair with school spirit. Socially, the vibe leans low-key; there’s no dominant party scene, and much of the energy revolves around student organizations, service initiatives, and faith-based activities, though you’ll still find casual hangouts and events on campus.
Living on campus offers a cozy, communal feel, but housing options can be limited, and some students opt to commute given San Antonio’s sprawling layout. The South Texas weather means hot summers and mild winters, though humidity can be a challenge. While the cost of living in San Antonio is relatively affordable compared to other major cities, the campus’s location might feel a bit isolated from the city’s liveliest spots, requiring a car or public transit to dive into the broader scene.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
NCAA
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
No
Air Force
No
Veteran’s Programs Available
Yellow Ribbon Program (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
Yes
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Recognized student veteran organization
Yes
Member of DoD Voluntary Educational Partnership MOU
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
Net Annual Cost by Household Income
Household Income
Avg. Net Cost
$0 – $30K
$15,814
$30K – $48K
$17,577
$48K – $75K
$19,939
$75K – $110K
$20,302
$110K+
$21,270
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Costs shown are before financial aid. Most students receive some form of aid. Complete the FAFSA to see what you qualify for.
Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
63%
4 Years Graduation Rate
39%
6 Years Graduation Rate
50%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$48,675
63% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at Our Lady of the Lake University and return in the fall. 39% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 50% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
39%
4-5 years
11%
6-8 years
1%
Non-grad
49%
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Key Statistics
Type
Private
Tuition
$30,200
Acceptance
66%
Undergrads
1,108
4-Year Grad Rate
39%
Endowment
$24M
San Antonio, TX 78207-4689
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