The Catholic University of America – An In-Depth College Profile
Website: https://www.catholic.edu/
Location: Washington, D.C.
Enrollment: 5,171 Students
Graduation Rate: 75%
Acceptance Rate: 84%
Undergraduate Tuition & Fees: $55,834
A Premier Catholic Education in the Nation’s Capital
The Catholic University of America (CUA) stands as a unique institution of higher learning, combining the intellectual rigor of a national research university with the deeply rooted values of the Catholic faith. Founded by the U.S. Catholic bishops and sponsored by the Vatican, CUA offers a vibrant campus life and a tight-knit community atmosphere, all while being situated in Washington, D.C.—a city teeming with cultural, political and professional opportunities. This blend of faith, reason and location creates an environment where students are encouraged to explore the most pressing questions of humanity while preparing for meaningful careers.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Total Enrollment: 5,171 students (a mid-sized, residential community)
- Student Body Makeup: 60% Undergraduate, 40% Graduate
- Learning Schedule: 91% Full-Time, 9% Part-Time
- Undergrad Gender Ratio: 57% Female, 43% Male
- Setting: Residential, 176-acre campus in Washington, D.C.
Costs and Financial Aid: Making a Private Education Accessible
While the published cost of attendance at CUA is significant, the university is exceptionally committed to making this education affordable for families. An overwhelming majority of students receive substantial financial aid that dramatically reduces the actual cost.
Estimated Annual Cost of Attendance: $77,784
This comprehensive “sticker price” includes:
- Tuition and Fees: $55,834
- Room and Board: $17,370
- Books and Supplies: $1,180
- Other Personal Expenses: $3,400
How Students Actually Pay for College:
The financial aid picture at CUA is remarkably favorable. The university leverages its resources to ensure cost is not a barrier for admitted students.
- Institutional Grants & Scholarships: A staggering 99% of students receive merit-based or need-based aid directly from CUA, averaging $36,624 per year. This is one of the highest percentages in the country and is the cornerstone of making CUA affordable.
- Federal Student Loans: 58% of students utilize federal loans, borrowing an average of $9,500 per year.
- Federal Grants: 21% of students receive federal Pell Grants, averaging $7,029.
- State/Local Grants: 4% of students receive state aid, averaging $3,033.
Net Price and Your Actual Cost:
After factoring in grants and scholarships—especially the nearly universal institutional aid—the average annual out-of-pocket cost for families is significantly reduced to $33,417. This “net price” is the critical figure for family financial planning.
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Admissions: An Accessible and Community-Oriented Process
With an acceptance rate of 84%, CUA maintains a more accessible admissions process compared to many private universities. The university seeks students who are not only academically prepared but who also align with its mission and values. The application process is holistic, considering a student’s character, extracurricular involvement and potential to contribute to the campus community.
Test Scores:
CUA has a test-optional admissions policy. This means that submitting SAT or ACT scores is not a requirement for most applicants. The decision reflects a growing trend in higher education to evaluate students on their full high school record rather than a single standardized test. Students who believe their test scores strengthen their application are welcome to submit them but those who do not are not at a disadvantage.
A Diverse and Mission-Driven Campus Community
CUA fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment that reflects the universality of the Catholic Church while respecting students of all faiths and backgrounds.
The undergraduate student body is diverse and includes:
- White: 57%
- Hispanic: 20%
- Black: 9%
- Non-resident Alien: 4%
- Asian or Pacific Islander: 3%
- Unknown: 3%
- Two or More Races: 3%
- American Indian or Alaskan Native: 0%
This diversity enriches classroom discussions and campus life, providing a microcosm of the global community.
Academics: Integrating Faith and Reason Across Disciplines
CUA is organized into several schools including the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Engineering, the Conway School of Nursing and the School of Architecture and Planning. The core curriculum ensures all students, regardless of major, receive a foundational education in the liberal arts, philosophy and theology.
Most Popular Majors (Number of Graduates):
- Business Administration and Management, General (164): This program integrates ethical business practices with core management principles, preparing students for leadership roles in the corporate and non-profit worlds.
- Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse (77): The nursing school is highly respected and combines rigorous clinical training with a compassionate, service-oriented approach to patient care.
- Political Science and Government, General (61): Leveraging its D.C. location, this program offers unparalleled access to internships on Capitol Hill, federal agencies and policy institutes.
- Psychology, General (52): Students explore the human mind and behavior through a curriculum that considers philosophical and ethical dimensions alongside scientific research.
- Architecture (43): CUA’s School of Architecture and Planning is known for its emphasis on classical and urban design, traditional building crafts and sustainable practices.
Graduation Rate:
CUA boasts a strong 4-year graduation rate of 75% which is well above the national average. This indicates that students receive excellent academic advising and support, enabling them to complete their degrees on time and successfully launch their careers or pursue graduate studies.
Student Life and Faith Formation
Life at CUA is vibrant and centered around community. There are over 100 student clubs and organizations including service groups, academic societies and cultural associations. The campus features a beautiful basilica and Mass is offered multiple times daily. While spiritual life is robust and central for many, all students are welcomed and encouraged to explore their own paths.
The university’s location in Washington, D.C., provides a wealth of opportunities for internships, research and cultural enrichment. From museums on the National Mall to internships in government and non-profits, students have the world at their doorstep. CUA’s strong alumni network and dedicated career center help students translate their academic and experiential learning into fulfilling post-graduation outcomes.
How to Fund Your CUA Education
A CUA education is an investment in a values-based future and strategic financial planning is key. Follow these steps:
- Maximize Free Aid: With 99% of students receiving institutional aid, your financial aid package from CUA will be the most important part of your plan. Always exhaust grants and scholarships before turning to loans.
- Complete the FAFSA: This is essential to unlock federal grants, work-study and loans. CUA uses the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for need-based institutional aid as well.
- Apply for External Scholarships: Supplement your financial aid package with private scholarships.
We make it simple by matching you to scholarships you qualify for based on your background, interests and academic profile.
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With its exceptional institutional support and commitment to its students, The Catholic University of America represents a financially accessible and personally transformative educational opportunity.
Information is based on the latest available data. Always check the official The Catholic University of America website for the most current costs, admission requirements and financial aid deadlines.
