Skip to main content
85.6%Acceptance
$55,834Tuition
3,063Students
81%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$73,250Earnings
#6 in District of ColumbiaPrivate nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test BlindResearch UniversityNCAA Division IIIStudy AbroadData: 2023-24Roman Catholic

Overview

The Catholic University of America is a accessible private four-year institution in Washington, District of Columbia. The school accepts 85.6% of applicants and enrolls 3,063 students.

Admission Statistics

Acceptance Rate
85.6%
Total Enrollment
3,063

Admission Guide

Submit your application through the Common Application with your high school transcript, letters of recommendation, and personal statement. The Catholic University of America operates on rolling admissions for most programs, so apply early for better housing options and scholarship consideration.

Engineering and nursing programs maintain higher admission standards than the university overall. Architecture also requires a portfolio submission. If you're targeting these competitive programs, focus extra attention on your math and science coursework and standardized test scores.

Housing fills quickly, especially in the newer residence halls like Opus Hall and Centennial Village. Submit your housing deposit immediately after acceptance to secure your preferred option. First-year students must live on campus unless they're commuting from a parent's home within 30 miles.

The campus sits in the Brookland neighborhood of Washington, DC, with direct Metro access via the Red Line. You can reach downtown DC in 15 minutes, making internships and job opportunities highly accessible during your studies.

Catholic University requires all students to take theology and philosophy courses as part of the core curriculum, regardless of your religious background or major. These requirements typically total 12 credit hours and integrate Catholic intellectual tradition into your academic experience.

Financial aid decisions come separately from admission decisions, so complete your FAFSA early. The university offers both need-based aid and merit scholarships, with many students receiving some form of financial assistance.

What It Costs If You Get In

Average Net Price
$32,798/yr
Tuition (in-state)
$55,834
Students Receiving Aid
17%

View full cost breakdown →

After You Graduate

Graduation Rate (6-year)
81.3%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$73,250/yr
Freshman Retention Rate
83.5%

View full outcomes data →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does The Catholic University of America require standardized test scores for admission?

The Catholic University of America is test-optional, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not required for most applicants. Students can choose whether to submit test scores as part of their application.

What is the application deadline for The Catholic University of America?

The Catholic University of America has a regular decision deadline of February 15. The school also offers early action with a November 15 deadline.

Can you transfer to The Catholic University of America from another college?

Yes, The Catholic University of America accepts transfer students. Transfer applicants must submit college transcripts and typically need a minimum GPA, though specific requirements vary by program.

Does The Catholic University of America require students to be Catholic for admission?

No, The Catholic University of America welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds. While it maintains a Catholic identity, religious affiliation is not a requirement for admission.