About

About Christopher Newport University

public liberal arts focussmall class sizesmasters level programsaccessible admissionsbusiness and premed strengths

Christopher Newport University is a public university in Newport News, VA, known for its public liberal arts focus, small class sizes, and masters level programs. With an acceptance rate of 85%, CNU is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 1,161 students each year. CNU is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 1100–1290, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. CNU offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $8,553 per year; the sticker price of $44,662 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Christopher Newport University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

85%
Overall Accept Rate
1195
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 1100 – 1290 (test optional)

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Christopher Newport University

The first 2 tips apply to all applicants. Your personalized strategy requires your profile — build your free list to unlock it.

Essay Strategy
CNU places meaningful weight on essays, so use your personal statement to highlight a specific moment of leadership or civic responsibility. The school's focus on the liberal arts and leadership development means admissions officers are looking for students who can articulate how they want to grow and contribute, not just list achievements.
Test Score Strategy
CNU is test optional and your score may not strengthen your file, so consider leaving it off and letting your GPA and essays do the work instead.

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Financial Aid & Cost

What Christopher Newport University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceEst. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$45k/yr$12.5k
30k-48k~$45k/yr$12.8k
48k-75k~$45k/yr$14.2k
75k-110k~$45k/yr$22.8k
110k+~$45k/yr$30.6k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

75%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$52k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
14:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
4,327
Undergrad Enrollment
Christopher Newport University Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch