Christopher Newport University (CNU) is a highly respected public university located in Newport News, Virginia. With its picturesque campus, distinguished faculty, and exceptional academic programs, CNU attracts thousands of aspiring students each year. Understanding the admissions process is crucial for navigating this competitive landscape. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate your way to CNU.

Applying to CNU: The Core Requirements
To apply to CNU, you must:
- Submit an online application through the Common App or Coalition Application
- Pay the non-refundable application fee of $50
- Submit official high school transcripts
- Submit ACT or SAT scores (optional)
Academic Profile and Admissions Standards
CNU is primarily looking for students with strong academic credentials. For the 2022-2023 academic year, the average GPA of admitted students was 3.75, and the middle 50% of ACT Composite scores ranged from 22 to 28. While standardized test scores are no longer required, submitting them can strengthen your application.
Holistic Admissions: Beyond Academics
CNU employs a holistic admissions approach, meaning the university takes into account a range of factors when evaluating applications, including:
- Extracurricular activities and leadership experience
- Community service
- Personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
Admissions Timeline and Deadlines
CNU offers rolling admissions, and earlier applicants tend to have a better chance of admission. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the key deadlines are:
Deadline | Notification Date |
---|---|
November 1 (Early Action) | December 15 |
January 15 (Regular Decision) | March 15 |
Fees and Financial Aid
The cost of attendance at CNU varies depending on your residency status and other factors. For the 2022-2023 academic year, the estimated cost of attendance for Virginia in-state students is $27,136, while out-of-state students pay approximately $45,702. CNU offers a wide range of financial aid programs, including scholarships, grants, and loans, to assist students with meeting their educational expenses.
Tips and Tricks for a Successful Application
- Start early: Submit your application as early as possible to increase your chances of admission.
- Showcase your strengths: Highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities that make you a unique candidate.
- Craft a compelling personal statement: This is your opportunity to demonstrate your writing skills, passion for learning, and how you would contribute to the CNU community.
- Secure strong letters of recommendation: Ask teachers, counselors, or supervisors who know you well to write letters that attest to your character and abilities.
- Visit campus: Schedule a campus tour to get a firsthand look at CNU and meet with admissions counselors.
- Apply to multiple schools: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Applying to multiple schools increases your chances of admission and financial aid opportunities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting until the deadline: Submitting your application on time shows that you are organized and serious about attending CNU.
- Not proofreading your application: Ensure that your application is free of grammatical errors and typos.
- Overstating your accomplishments: Be truthful and authentic in your application.
- Not submitting all required materials: Double-check that you have included all the necessary documents before submitting your application.
- Not following up: Contact the admissions office if you have any questions or concerns about your application.
Program Spotlight: CNU’s Engineering Program
CNU’s engineering program is highly regarded and accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). The program offers a strong foundation in science, mathematics, and engineering principles, preparing students for successful careers in the field. With state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty, CNU provides a dynamic and immersive learning environment for aspiring engineers.
Table 1: CNU Admission Rates
Year | Applications Received | Admissions Offered | Enrollment |
---|---|---|---|
2022-2023 | 13,489 | 6,992 | 1,761 |
2021-2022 | 12,215 | 6,205 | 1,579 |
2020-2021 | 11,302 | 5,729 | 1,528 |
Table 2: CNU Acceptance Rate
Year | Acceptance Rate |
---|---|
2022-2023 | 51.8% |
2021-2022 | 51.2% |
2020-2021 | 50.7% |
Table 3: CNU Average GPA and ACT Scores
Year | GPA | ACT Composite |
---|---|---|
2022-2023 | 3.75 | 24 |
2021-2022 | 3.74 | 24 |
2020-2021 | 3.72 | 23 |
Table 4: CNU Cost of Attendance
Category | Virginia In-State | Out-of-State |
---|---|---|
Tuition and Fees | $14,398 | $29,298 |
Room and Board | $12,738 | $16,404 |
Books and Supplies | $1,200 | $1,200 |
Other Expenses | $1,600 | $1,600 |
Total Estimated Cost | $27,136 | $45,702 |