About Christopher Newport University

Founded in 1960, Christopher Newport University. is a Public college. Located in Virginia, which is a city setting in Virginia, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 4,930 full time undergraduate students, and 112 full time graduate students.

The Christopher Newport University Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 15:1. There are 276 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Christopher Newport University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.

Quick Facts

Acceptance Rate62%
Application Deadline15-Nov
Application Fee65
SAT Range1060-1250
ACT Range23-28

Admissions at CNU are considered Selective, with ,54% of all applicants being admitted.

In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 16 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.

90% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 54% were in the top quarter, and 19% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.

STUDENT LIFE Reviews

We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Christopher Newport University.

4%
“We”re apathetic”
27%
“We know about current events and vote”
64%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
4%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
4%
“We save it for the classroom”
9%
“Sometimes, but not often”
69%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
18%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
7%
“I only go out in groups”
20%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
73%
“I feel extremely safe”
16%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
42%
“We bought the gear”
42%
“We live for the big game”
2%
“It”s not really our thing”
16%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
62%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
20%
“We”re a very artistic group”
2%
“Haven”t met them”
0%
“Available in class”
44%
“They keep regular office hours”
53%
“They”re always available”
0%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
11%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
80%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
9%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
0%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
33%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
56%
“We only party on weekends”
11%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
7%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
82%
“There might be people who do”
9%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
2%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
4%
“We”re apathetic”
27%
“We know about current events and vote”
64%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
4%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
4%
“We save it for the classroom”
9%
“Sometimes, but not often”
69%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
18%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
7%
“I only go out in groups”
20%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
73%
“I feel extremely safe”
16%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
42%
“We bought the gear”
42%
“We live for the big game”
2%
“It”s not really our thing”
16%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
62%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
20%
“We”re a very artistic group”
2%
“Haven”t met them”
0%
“Available in class”
44%
“They keep regular office hours”
53%
“They”re always available”
0%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
11%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
80%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
9%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
0%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
33%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
56%
“We only party on weekends”
11%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
7%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
82%
“There might be people who do”
9%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
2%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
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  • How would you rate on-campus housing?

    161 Students rated on-campus housing 4 stars. 33 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate off-campus housing?

    112 Students rated off-campus housing 3.6 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate campus food?

    160 Students rated campus food 3.6 stars. 21 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate campus facilities?

    163 Students rated campus facilities 4.5 stars. 60 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate class size?

    163 Students rated class size 4.5 stars. 61 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate school activities?

    163 Students rated school activities 4 stars. 33 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate local services?

    163 Students rated local services 4.3 stars. 53 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate academics?

    163 Students rated academics 4.2 stars. 42 % gave the school a 5.0.

Christopher Newport University REVIEWS

What's your overall opinion of Christopher Newport University?

55 Students rated Christopher Newport University

Evan - 07/24/2024

The first time I visited CNU I fell in love, I know it sounds childish. I am the first in my family to go to college and when my family and I saw the campus, we were in awe. Of course my parents were concerned about a bit more. After reading reviews, speaking to other students and the parents of students. After consideration, I decided to enroll at CNU. The transition was a bit if a shell shock but I had plenty of support to fall back on. The advisers and teachers were so helpful. I hope to continue my education there and become a part of the class of 2026.

Janiah - 08/06/2023

As a freshman at Christopher Newport University, I can confidently say that I absolutely adore this school! The moment I set foot on campus, I instantly felt a strong sense of belonging and community. The support and dedication of the faculty and staff have been exceptional, and the academic programs have exceeded my expectations, equipping me with the knowledge and skills I need for my future career. Not to mention, the campus is nothing short of stunning, offering a perfect environment for learning and personal growth. What truly sets Christopher Newport University apart is the abundance of opportunities to get involved in various clubs, organizations, and events. This has made each day a thrilling adventure, fostering new friendships and unforgettable experiences. This university has truly become my second home, and I'm immensely grateful for the wonderful friends I've made and the cherished memories I've created here. With every passing day, my love for Christopher Newport University only grows stronger. I couldn't be happier with my decision to be a part of this incredible institution.

Damiek - 05/03/2023

CNU has been recognized for its academic excellence, and it is consistently ranked as one of the top public universities in the southern region of the United States. The university has a strong liberal arts program and a range of majors in fields such as business, education, engineering, and the sciences. CNU also has a vibrant campus life, with a range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations available to students. The university has a strong athletic program and competes in Division III of the NCAA. In terms of student experience, CNU has a relatively small student body, which allows for personalized attention and support from faculty and staff. The university also offers a range of services to help students succeed, such as tutoring, career counseling, and study abroad opportunities. Overall, Christopher Newport University appears to be a well-regarded institution with a strong academic reputation and a supportive campus community. However, as with any university, it is important for prospective students to thoroughly research the school and its programs to determine if it is the right fit for their individual needs and goals.

Catherine - 03/12/2023

Christopher Newport University has felt like home ever since I set foot on the campus. The buildings are welcoming and the great lawn is my favorite place to study alongside my classmates and friends. I have never had an issue with a class that couldn't be solved with a friendly talk with a professor or my advisor. My classes are interesting and my professors do a great job at keeping the attention of the class. I couldn't think of a better school.

Christopher Newport University FAQS

  1. What is the Acceptance Rate at Christopher Newport University?

    The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Christopher Newport University is 62%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020 , _____ students were offered admission. The number of males who applied was _____ vs the number of females which was _____.

  2. What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

    If I could go back to being a senior in high school I would make sure I didn't slack off and kept in the routine of doing work and studying. Once you stop studying it is very hard to get back into the habit. I would also liked to have taken harder classes to in a way start to get myself ready for the hard work you are challenged with at college.

    Read all 163 answers

  3. Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.

    CNU has a friendly atmosphere where fun-loving students should go to recieve their education.

    Read all 34 answers

  4. What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?

    Small class sizes are Christopher Newport University are both a curse and a blessing. While allowing better interaction with the professor and improved class discussions, it makes getting into specialized classes very competitive. Enrollment in classes is decided by your year and whether or not you are in the President's Leadership Program. It can be frustrating to see PLP students of a lower grade level enrolling in classes you need before you have the option.

    Read all 33 answers

  5. Describe the students at your school.

    Intelligents, social, and overall good people who are willing to do anything for their classmates.

    Read all 30 answers

  6. Describe your favorite campus traditions.

    Reputation as a public liberal arts unviersity. Rigorous curriciculum in some of the harder majors like Law, Medicine, and Music. Sports.

    Read all 30 answers

  7. What kind of person should not attend this school?

    This university is not for a huge partier. There are parties in this area but not outrageuos. If you don't like knowing most of the people on campus this is not the campus for you. If you don't like small classroom sizes and smaller functions all together CNU is not for you.

    Read all 29 answers

  8. What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?

    I wish i had know about the intensity of the academics. I didn't realize how good this school really is.

    Read all 27 answers

  9. What kind of person should attend this school?

    Someone who likes a small, well-knit community with good access to professors. It is a good place if you don't need an extensive education or a bizzare major. People are friendly and generally accepting.

    Read all 27 answers

  10. What's the most frustrating thing about your school?

    The most frustrating thing about my school is actually a toss up between the crowding in the dining hall and the small number of clubs (compared to a larger school). However, for a small school, they seem to do the best they can.

    Read all 22 answers

  11. Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!

    Private school environment

    Read all 21 answers

  12. What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?

    I had a really nice apartment and was able to finish in 3 years when I took my advising into my own hands.

    Read all 21 answers

  13. What's unique about your campus?

    It's sooooo pretty, friendly, good size, there's alot of school spirit etc etc...I LOVE IT!

    Read all 20 answers

  14. What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?

    Preppy overachievers! There are some students who follow this stereotype but not all!

    Read all 2 answers

  15. What are the most popular student activities/groups?

    Greek Life is huge on campus. Although the statistics show that a minority of the campus is involved in Greek Life, if you consider alternative Greek organizations and the number of students around campus that you see wearing letters it would seem that statistics grossly underestimate that percentage. Religious campus organizations are also very popular such as InterVarsity and CRU.

    Read all 1 answers

  16. What is your overall opinion of this school?

    I absolute love it!

    Read all 1 answers

Student Body

Students

57%

female

43%

male

4,930

Total Undergrad Enrollment

112

Total Grad Students

6%

Out-Of-State

92%

In-State

2%

International

Organizations

130

Student Organizations

8

Fraternities

7

Sororities

Housing

Yes

On-Campus Housing

65%

of students living on campus

Student Diversity

% American Indian/Alaskan Native
N/A
% Asian/Pacific Islander
3%
% Black or African-American
8%
% Hispanic/Latino
5%
% White or Caucasian
75%

TUITION & AID

All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA. Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.

79% of students attending Christopher Newport University receive some sort of financial aid. 15% were awarded federal grants. While 51% received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.

Cost Out of State

$24,680

Tuition and fees(Out of state)

$1,240

Books and Supplies

$10,914

Room and Board

36,834

Total On Campus

Actual Cost By Income Level(W/Financial Aid)

Family Income
Cost
$0 - $30K
$15,500
$30 - $48K
$15,679
$48 - $75K
$20,285
$75 - $110K
$23,631
$110K & UP
$26,580

We use student reviews and the most current publicly available data on our school pages. As such, we don't typically remove or edit college information. Sources for school statistics and data include the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. Portions of college data include copyrighted material, which is reproduced on this website by permission of Wintergreen Orchard House, a division of Carnegie Communications. © 2009-2016 by Wintergreen Orchard House. All rights reserved.

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