Catholic University of America Admissions, Housing & Campus Guide 2025

Dreaming of starting your academic journey just blocks from the U.S. Capitol and Smithsonian museums? The Catholic University of America sits in Washington, D.C.’s Brookland neighborhood, known as “Little Rome.” It offers students access to both spiritual enrichment and a creative community.

CUA offers more than 160 undergraduate and graduate programs, including its well-regarded Catholic University of America MBA and MSW programs. Whether you’re exploring biomedical engineering, theology, or social work, you’ll learn from expert faculty committed to your growth.

Ready to explore Catholic University’s unique blend of faith, scholarship, and service? Scroll down to learn about programs, admissions, and campus life.

About the Catholic University of America

The Catholic University of America was chartered by Pope Leo XIII in 1887 and opened its doors in 1889, making it one of the oldest Catholic institutions in the United States. As a private university, it enrolls over 3,139 undergraduates and 2,032 graduate students from all 50 states and 84 countries. 

CUA comprises 12 schools, including the Busch School of Business and the School of Engineering, offering more than 250 programs across disciplines. Fully accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, CUA delivers undergraduate and graduate degrees, like the Catholic University of America MSW and various doctoral programs.

The Brookland campus features modern labs, specialized libraries, and community spaces set against the backdrop of historic Caldwell Hall. With its motto Deus Lux Mea Est (“God Is My Light”), CUA emphasizes faith, scholarship, and service, and holds an R1 “Very High Research Activity” classification from Carnegie. In the recent NICHE rankings, the Catholic University of America rank is consistently placed among the 50 “Best Catholic Colleges” in the U.S.

Catholic University of America Admission Requirements

Catholic University of America courses cater to the diverse learning needs of students seeking higher education opportunities in Washington, D.C. As an international student, you must fulfill the following admission requirements before applying to undergraduate or graduate programs:

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

• Hold a U.S. high school diploma or equivalent. You may also complete the Secondary School Report with your counselor’s signature.

• Submit the Common Application; there is no application fee for undergraduate programs.

• Provide official, sealed high school transcripts. Submit certified and English-translated transcripts or a course-by-course evaluation.

• Write a personal statement (250-500 words) on your goals.

• Include at least one letter of recommendation (LOR).

• SAT/ACT scores are optional and will be considered if submitted.

• Provide proof of sufficient financial resources (e.g., bank statements or a sponsor affidavit).

• Demonstrate English proficiency with official scores from one of the following approved exams:

Graduate Admission Requirements

• Submit the Catholic University online graduate application and pay the $60 fee (waived if you apply through the graduate application portal).

• Provide official transcripts from every post-secondary institution you’ve attended. Unofficial copies may be accepted for review, but sealed official transcripts are required after enrollment.

• Upload a 500-word statement of purpose outlining your professional goals and explaining your fit with the chosen program.

• Include a current resume or CV detailing your academic, work, and volunteer experiences. 

• Submit two letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.

• Attend an admission interview, either in person or via Zoom (required by some graduate programs).

• If English is not your first language, demonstrate proficiency using one of the approved exams listed below.

Catholic University of America Application Deadlines

Catholic University Washington DC has separate application deadlines depending on the program. Some courses admit students on a rolling basis, while others, especially in popular academic areas, require early applications for consideration. Below are general deadlines for international students applying to undergraduate and graduate programs:

Undergraduate Application Deadlines 2025

Graduate Application Deadlines 2025

How to Apply to the Catholic University of America

To provide you with a complete guide for college application, given below is a step-by-step process for the Catholic University of America Admissions: 

1. Select Your Program: Decide whether you’re applying as an undergraduate or graduate student and review specific requirements on the Catholic University website.

2. Create Your Application: Undergraduate applicants must complete the Common Application. Graduate applicants must fill out the online graduate application on the CUA portal and pay the application fee.  (waived if you attend an information session).

3. Submit Transcripts: Gather and submit official transcripts. Unofficial copies may be used for initial review, but sealed official transcripts are required before enrollment.

4. Compose Your Statement: Write a personal statement or statement of purpose detailing your professional objectives and how your chosen program supports them.

5. Upload Supporting Materials: Include a current résumé or CV and at least one letter of recommendation (undergrads) or two letters (grads) from academic or professional referees.

6. Provide International Documents: International applicants must upload a copy of their passport ID page, proof of financial support (bank statements or affidavit), and any F1-visa forms needed for I-20 processing.

7. Review and Submit: Double-check that all sections of your application are complete, fees are paid, and documents are uploaded. Then submit your application.

8. Monitor Your Status: After submission, use your applicant portal to track document receipt and view your admissions decision. Respond promptly to any additional requests.

Catholic University of America Tuition and Fees

CUA delivers a quality and values-driven education at competitive fees, showing its commitment to provide quality education. The tuition and fees for undergraduate and graduate degree programs for the academic year 2025-2026 are as follows:

Undergraduate Tuition Fee (2025-2026)

*Tuition Fees are subject to change and might vary each year/intake

Catholic University of America Scholarship Opportunities

The Catholic University of America offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to support students from diverse financial backgrounds. In fact, over the past three years, 94% of first-year students received Catholic University of America Scholarships and grants. For high-achieving students, the university offers the following scholarships:

Get Affordable Student Housing Near the Catholic University of America

Located in Washington, D.C., the Catholic University of America campus provides quality higher education with world-class research facilities just blocks from the Basilica. On campus, students can live in one of eight residence halls, enjoy meal plans, and join vibrant student communities just steps from their classes and the Basilica.

Finding off-campus housing in D.C. can be challenging. That’s where amber comes in: browse budget-friendly apartments in Dupont Circle, Georgetown, or Capitol Hill. These options offer safety, high-speed Wi-Fi, and easy subway access. Focus on your studies while amber handles the housing search for you!

Let us have a detailed look at some of the best Catholic University of America off-campus housing options in Washington, DC:

• Florida Ave, Washington, DC

• Columbia 1480, Washington, DC

• The Tempo, College Park

• The Nine at College Park, College Park

• Terrapin Row, College Park

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