About NewU University
NewU University operates as one of the nation's smallest four-year institutions with just 34 students enrolled. This private university sits in the heart of Washington, DC, offering an extraordinarily intimate academic environment. The student-to-faculty ratio of 4:1 means you'll likely know every professor personally and receive individualized attention rarely found elsewhere. The university primarily serves Black and Hispanic students, with 61.76% and 23.53% representation respectively.
The financial picture presents some unusual characteristics. Tuition costs $16,500 regardless of residency status, yet no students receive federal financial aid or Pell Grants according to 2023 data. This suggests either a specialized funding model or a student body that doesn't qualify for traditional aid programs. Without typical aid packages, students pay the full sticker price. The federal loan rate of 0.00% indicates students aren't borrowing to attend.
The retention rate of 81.25% shows most students stick around after their first year despite the unconventional structure. With such a tiny student body, the college experience here differs dramatically from traditional universities. Students seeking a highly personalized education in the nation's capital might find this intimate setting appealing, though the lack of financial aid options limits accessibility.
The financial picture presents some unusual characteristics. Tuition costs $16,500 regardless of residency status, yet no students receive federal financial aid or Pell Grants according to 2023 data. This suggests either a specialized funding model or a student body that doesn't qualify for traditional aid programs. Without typical aid packages, students pay the full sticker price. The federal loan rate of 0.00% indicates students aren't borrowing to attend.
The retention rate of 81.25% shows most students stick around after their first year despite the unconventional structure. With such a tiny student body, the college experience here differs dramatically from traditional universities. Students seeking a highly personalized education in the nation's capital might find this intimate setting appealing, though the lack of financial aid options limits accessibility.
Academics & Faculty
This tiny institution in the nation's capital operates with an extraordinarily intimate academic environment. With just 34 students and a 4:1 student-faculty ratio, every student receives intensive, personalized attention that's nearly impossible to find elsewhere. The school maintains an 81.25% retention rate despite its experimental approach to higher education. NewU functions as an alternative academic model that emphasizes close mentorship and individualized learning paths. The small scale means students work directly with faculty on research and projects from day one. Classes resemble graduate seminars more than traditional lectures. This intensive format attracts students seeking a non-traditional college experience focused on deep learning rather than broad social opportunities.
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 4:1
- Retention Rate
- 81.3%
Campus Life
This tiny institution enrolls just 34 students, creating an intimate learning environment where everyone knows each other. The 4:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know your name and academic goals personally. With 61.76% Black students and 23.53% Hispanic students, the campus reflects DC's diverse communities.
Washington DC winters require a good coat, with temperatures often dipping below freezing from December through February. Summers bring humid heat that makes air conditioning essential. The city offers endless internship opportunities at government agencies, nonprofits, and advocacy organizations just a Metro ride away. With such a small enrollment, campus life revolves around tight-knit study groups and collaborative projects rather than large social events. Students typically spend weekends exploring DC's museums, attending political rallies, or networking at professional events downtown. The 81.25% retention rate suggests students bond quickly with their small cohort. The absence of federal loans and financial aid recipients indicates families pay the $16,500 tuition out of pocket, creating a financially homogeneous student body despite the racial diversity.
Washington DC winters require a good coat, with temperatures often dipping below freezing from December through February. Summers bring humid heat that makes air conditioning essential. The city offers endless internship opportunities at government agencies, nonprofits, and advocacy organizations just a Metro ride away. With such a small enrollment, campus life revolves around tight-knit study groups and collaborative projects rather than large social events. Students typically spend weekends exploring DC's museums, attending political rallies, or networking at professional events downtown. The 81.25% retention rate suggests students bond quickly with their small cohort. The absence of federal loans and financial aid recipients indicates families pay the $16,500 tuition out of pocket, creating a financially homogeneous student body despite the racial diversity.
- Setting
- City-Large
- Calendar System
- Semester
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 27°–44°F
- July Avg
- 70°–89°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 45.6"
- Annual Snowfall
- 9.7"
Student Demographics
This small Washington DC institution draws a predominantly Black student body with significant Hispanic representation, reflecting its mission to serve underrepresented communities in higher education. The 34-student enrollment creates an intimate academic environment with personalized attention. The 90% acceptance rate makes NewU accessible to students who might struggle to gain admission elsewhere. The male majority suggests programs that traditionally attract men. No students receive Pell Grants or federal aid, indicating families can afford the $16,500 tuition without assistance. The 81% retention rate shows most students find what they're looking for and stay.
- Men
- 58.8%
- Women
- 41.2%
- White
- 0.0%
- Black
- 61.8%
- Hispanic
- 23.5%
- Asian
- 5.9%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 0.0%
Location
NewU University sits in Washington, DC, placing students directly in the nation's capital. The school operates within a city of over 700,000 residents, surrounded by the broader metropolitan area of 6.3 million people. Students have immediate access to federal agencies, international organizations, and major corporations that call DC home. The city's extensive Metro system connects neighborhoods filled with museums, monuments, and political institutions. Washington's college-friendly environment includes Georgetown University, George Washington University, and American University nearby. The area offers internship opportunities at think tanks, nonprofits, and government offices that few other cities can match. Students considering colleges in Washington, DC may also compare NewU University with similar schools in the region.
- Address
- Washington, District of Columbia 20005
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at NewU University?
NewU University accepts 90.41% of applicants, making it accessible to most students who apply. With only 34 total students enrolled, this small institution focuses on individualized attention rather than selective admissions.
How much does NewU University cost for tuition?
Tuition at NewU University costs $16,500 per year for both in-state and out-of-state students. However, 0% of students receive financial aid or Pell Grants, meaning families typically pay the full sticker price.
What is the student-faculty ratio at NewU University?
NewU University maintains a 4:1 student-faculty ratio, providing exceptional access to professors. This intimate academic environment allows for personalized instruction and mentoring opportunities rarely found at larger institutions.
Does NewU University have good student retention?
The retention rate at NewU University stands at 81.25%, meaning about four out of five students return for their sophomore year. This rate reflects the school's ability to support its small student body through their academic journey.
Where is NewU University located and what is the campus like?
NewU University operates in Washington, DC, placing students in the heart of the nation's capital. The urban setting provides access to government internships, cultural institutions, and networking opportunities unique to DC.
What is the student demographic composition at NewU University?
NewU University serves a predominantly minority student population, with 61.76% Black students and 23.53% Hispanic students. The student body is 58.82% male and operates on a semester calendar system.
