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Catholic University Of America
Private UniversityUnited StatesWorld #169

Catholic University Of America

United States

33,150/yr

Avg. tuition

76,156/yr

Living (Bachelors)

75,932/yr

Living (Masters)

27+programs

Courses

About

The Catholic University of America, situated in Washington, D.C., is a distinguished private research institution founded in 1887. Boasting a diverse academic community, the university currently serves 2,929 undergraduates and 2,130 graduate students across its 12 schools. With an impressive campus featuring 50 buildings and a library housing a substantial collection of 1.4 million volumes, the institution offers an enriching educational environment.

Notably, it falls within the "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity" classification. In the realm of sports, the university's Cardinals actively participate in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division III's Landmark Conference, fielding a total of 25 varsity intercollegiate teams.

What is the acceptance rate of the Catholic University Of America?

Catholic University Of America has an acceptance rate of 85.6%

The Catholic University of America achieved a ranking of #176 in the National Universities category in the 2022-2023 edition of Best Colleges. For those aspiring to join the university's undergraduate program, the tuition fee stands at $54,630, while graduate students can expect a tuition fee of $52,190.

Top Reasons to Study in the Catholic University Of America

  • Rigorous academics: CU is a top-ranked university with a strong focus on academic excellence. The faculty are experts in their fields and are committed to teaching and mentoring students. The curriculum is challenging but rewarding, and students are encouraged to think critically and creatively.
  • Diversity: CU is a diverse university with students from all over the world. This diversity enriches the learning experience and helps students to develop a global perspective. CU is also committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students.
  • Location: CU is located in the heart of Washington, D.C. This gives students access to a wealth of resources, including museums, libraries, government agencies, and think tanks. CU also partners with many organizations in the city to provide students with internship and research opportunities.
  • Catholic identity: CU is a Catholic university, but it welcomes students of all faiths. The university's Catholic identity is evident in its mission, values, and curriculum. CU students are encouraged to reflect on their faith and to integrate their Catholic beliefs into their academic work.
  • Spiritual life: CU offers a variety of opportunities for students to grow in their spiritual life. There are daily Mass, weekly retreats, and many other faith-based activities. CU also has a strong Campus Ministry program that provides students with support and guidance.

Admissions

Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)

85%

Application Fee

$60


How to Apply at Catholic University Of America

  1. Start an online application on the CUA website.
  2. Review language proficiency requirements.
  3. Submit an application fee of $60.
  4. Submit official transcripts from all previous colleges/universities. 
  5. Submit scores from an English proficiency test. 
  6. Submit two letters of recommendation
  7. Submit a personal statement
  8. Submit a resume. 

Documents Required to Apply to Catholic University Of America

Undergraduate students: 

  • Completed online application and application fee
  • Official high school transcript
  • English proficiency scorents:
  • Confirm financial support 

Graduate stude

  • Completed online application 
  • Official transcripts from previous colleges/universities 
  • English proficiency test score
  • Letter of recommendation
  • Resume or CV
  • Professional Goal Statement 
  • Confirm financial support

Exams Accepted By Catholic University Of America

Here are the test score accepted by the Catholic University of America:

  • TOEFL (iBT): 80
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • Duolingo: 105
  • PTE: 58

Campus Life

Number of campuses the university has
1

Campus locations
District of Columbia

View on Google Earth


Transportation in the city

There are a variety of transportation options available in the City of the Catholic University of America. Here are a few of the most popular:

  • Metrorail: Metrorail is a rapid transit system that serves the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. There is one Metrorail station located in the City of the Catholic University of America, which is on the Red Line. The Metrorail can be a convenient way to get to and from the university, as well as other parts of the city.
  • Bus: The DC Circulator is a bus service that provides free rides around the city. There is a Circulator stop located near the Catholic University of America campus. The Circulator can be a convenient way to get around the city without having to pay for a Metrorail ticket.
  • Bicycle: The City of the Catholic University of America is a bike-friendly city. There are many bike lanes and paths located throughout the city. Biking can be a great way to get around the university and explore the surrounding area.
  • Walking: The City of the Catholic University of America is a relatively small city, so it is easy to get around by walking. Walking can be a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the scenery.

Services offered by the university

The Catholic University of America offers a variety of services to its students, faculty, and staff. Here are some of the most notable services offered by the university:

  • Academic Advising: The university offers academic advising to all students, from freshmen to graduate students. Advisors can help students choose classes, plan their academic path, and troubleshoot any academic problems they may be having.
  • Career Services: The university's Career Services office offers a variety of services to help students find jobs and internships. These services include resume writing, interview coaching, and job search assistance.
  • Financial Aid: The university's Financial Aid office helps students apply for financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and loans. The office also provides counselling and support to students who are struggling to pay for college.
  • Health Services: The university's Health Services provide medical care to students, faculty, and staff. The office offers a variety of services, including primary care, mental health care, and substance abuse counselling.

Student life at Catholic University Of America

  • Student organizations: There are over 100 student organizations at Catholic University, covering a wide range of interests, including academic, cultural, religious, and social.
  • Performing arts: Catholic University has a vibrant performing arts scene, with a variety of student groups and performances throughout the year. The university also has a professional theatre company, the Catholic University Drama Department.
  • Sporting events: Catholic University has 25 NCAA Division III sports teams. Students can participate in intramural sports or cheer on the varsity teams.
  • Service opportunities: Catholic University students have the opportunity to get involved in a variety of service opportunities, both on campus and in the surrounding community. The university offers a variety of service-learning courses, as well as opportunities to volunteer with local organizations.
  • Retreats and festivals: Catholic University hosts a variety of retreats and festivals throughout the year, including a fall retreat, a spring retreat, and a summer festival. These events provide students with opportunities to connect with their faith, learn about different cultures, and have fun.

On campus accomodation at Catholic University Of America

The Catholic University of America offers a variety of on-campus housing options for undergraduate students, including:

  • Traditional residence halls: These halls offer double or triple occupancy rooms with shared bathrooms down the hall.
  • Suite-style housing: These halls offer suites with two or three bedrooms and a shared bathroom.
  • Apartments: These apartments offer one-, two-, or three-bedroom units with a kitchen, living room, and bathroom.

Undergraduate students are required to live on campus for their first three years. Housing assignments are made based on student preference and availability.

In addition to traditional residence halls, suite-style housing, and apartments, Catholic University also offers a variety of special interest housing options, such as:

  • Cornerstone Residential Community: This community is for male students who are interested in living in a faith-based environment.
  • Millennium Halls: These halls are for students who are interested in sustainability and environmental awareness.
  • Opus Hall: This hall is for students who are interested in the arts and creativity.

The cost of on-campus housing at Catholic University varies depending on the type of housing and the student's class year. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the cost of housing for a first-year student in a traditional residence hall is $10,290 per semester. The cost of housing for a senior student in an apartment is $14,530 per semester.

Faculty

University Faculty:Student Ratio

1/7

University Faculty Stats

At the Catholic University of America (CUA), there are 793 faculty members in total, comprising 377 full-time and 416 part-time staff. Notably, 83.8% of full-time faculty hold doctoral or terminal degrees, and 89.1% of them are involved in teaching undergraduates. This results in a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, promoting a personalized and engaging learning experience.

Career Opportunities

Internship opportunities at Catholic University Of America

The Catholic University of America offers a variety of internship and part-time job opportunities for students. These opportunities are available on and off campus and in a variety of fields.

Here are some of the internship and part-time job opportunities available at CUA:

  • On-campus internships: These internships are offered by CUA departments and offices. They provide students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in their field of study. Some examples of on-campus internships include:
    • Marketing internship in the Office of Marketing and Communications
    • Research internship in the Center for Catholic Studies
    • Teaching internship in the School of Education
  • Off-campus internships: These internships are offered by businesses and organizations in the Washington, D.C. area. They provide students with the opportunity to gain experience in their field of study in a professional setting. Some examples of off-campus internships include:
    • Marketing internship at a non-profit organization
    • Research internship at a government agency
    • Teaching internship at a local school
  • Part-time jobs: CUA also offers a variety of part-time jobs for students. These jobs are available in a variety of departments and offices, as well as in the campus bookstore and dining halls. Some examples of part-time jobs at CUA include:
    • Resident Assistant
    • Tutor
    • Library assistant
    • Dining hall worker

To find internship and part-time job opportunities at CUA, students can visit the Center for Academic and Career Success website. The website has a searchable database of all current opportunities, as well as tips on how to apply for internships and part-time jobs.

Here are the links to the Center for Academic and Career Success website:


Placement of Catholic University Of America

  • Job placement rate: According to the Center for Academic and Career Success at CUA, 90% of graduates are employed within six months of graduation.
  • Hiring companies: Some of the top hiring companies for CUA graduates include:
    • Microsoft
    • Dell
    • EY
    • KPMG
    • NetApp
    • EAB
    • Paycom
    • Zscaler
    • CVENT
    • Bank of America Merrill Lynch
  • Salaries: The average starting salary for CUA graduates is $66,860. However, salaries can vary depending on the field of study and the specific job title. For example, the average starting salary for a Family Nurse Practitioner (NP) is $102,437, while the average starting salary for a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is $212,500.

Popular Courses · 27

Last updated August 14, 2026

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Catholic University Of America: Admission 2025-26, Rankings, Fees & Acceptance Rate at CUA