
The Catholic University of America (CUA) is a private Catholic research university in Washington, D.C. It is ranked 64th in Best Value Schools and has a total undergraduate enrollment of 3,139 students. The tuition and fees for the university are $58,378, which is higher than the national average cost of tuition of $47,890. The total cost, including food and housing, books and supplies, transportation and personal expenses, is $79,024. However, 62% of first-year students receive need-based financial aid, and the average net price for federal loan recipients is $33,417. The university also offers scholarships, and the average need-based scholarship or grant awarded to first-year students is $45,376.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of institution | Private Catholic research university |
| Location | Washington, D.C. |
| Year founded | 1887 |
| Undergraduate enrollment (Fall 2023) | 3,139 |
| Campus size | 176 acres |
| Student-faculty ratio | 10:1 |
| Tuition and fees | $58,378 |
| Average net price | $33,417 |
| Four-year graduation rate | 75% |
| Median salary for graduates (six years after graduation) | $63,217 |
| Number of research centers and facilities | 21 |
| Number of schools offering degrees | 12 |
| Number of undergraduate degree programs | 72 |
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What You'll Learn

Tuition and fees: $58,378
The Catholic University of America (CUA) is a private Catholic research university in Washington, D.C. It was founded in 1887 and offers undergraduate, graduate, and research programs. The university's tuition and fees for the 2023-2024 academic year are $58,378. This figure includes both tuition and fees, also known as the sticker price.
The cost of attendance at CUA can be intimidating, but it's important to remember that most students don't end up paying the full price. Financial aid is available to help make up the difference between the cost of attendance and what families can afford. This aid can come from federal or institutional sources. Additionally, CUA offers scholarships, and 62% of first-year students receive need-based financial aid. The average need-based scholarship or grant awarded to first-year students is $45,376, and the average net price for federal loan recipients is $33,417.
It's worth noting that the total cost of attending CUA is more than just tuition and fees. The total cost includes the sticker price, as well as the cost of food, housing, books, supplies, transportation, and personal expenses. At CUA, the total cost is estimated to be $79,024. However, this can vary depending on family circumstances, as colleges often provide discounts to families with greater financial need.
When considering the cost of CUA, it's also important to look at the value it offers. CUA is ranked #64 in Best Value Schools for 2025. It has a four-year graduation rate of 75%, and six years after graduation, the median salary for alumni is $63,217. The university has a student-faculty ratio of 10:1 and offers a range of academic programs, including undergraduate degrees in 72 programs across six schools: architecture and planning, arts and sciences, engineering, music, nursing, and philosophy.
Overall, while the tuition and fees at CUA are significant, financial aid, scholarships, and the potential value of a degree from the university can help make it more affordable for students and their families.
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Scholarships and grants
Need-Based Scholarships and Grants
The Catholic University of America offers need-based scholarships and grants to students who demonstrate financial need. The awarded amount is typically based on the student's family's financial standing, as calculated by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The average need-based scholarship or grant awarded to first-year students at the university is $45,376, and 74% of first-year students received this type of financial aid in the fall of 2022.
Merit-Based Scholarships
The Catholic University of America also offers merit-based scholarships, which are awarded based on academic or athletic achievement, leadership experience, extracurricular activities, or other unique talents or traits. The average non-need-based scholarship awarded to first-year students is $31,224, excluding any athletic scholarships.
Parish Scholarship
Beginning in the Fall 2019 term, the Catholic University of America offers a Parish Scholarship to undergraduate first-year and transfer applicants who are parishioners of Catholic churches in the United States and its territories. Students enrolling under this scholarship receive $4,000 annually, renewable for up to four years.
CUA Scholarship
The Catholic University of America Scholarship (CUA Scholarship) is awarded to candidates with an exceptional academic profile, as determined by their high school curriculum, GPA, and class rank. The amount awarded varies, with the current four-year scholarship ranging from $17,000 to $32,000.
University Grant
Students who have a parent employed full-time at the John Paul II Institute are eligible for a University Grant of $10,000 per academic year, renewable for up to four years. This grant can be combined with other Catholic University merit scholarships up to the value of full tuition.
Federal Grants
Additionally, 14% of students at the Catholic University of America receive federal grants, with an average amount of $5,747.
Overall, the Catholic University of America provides a range of scholarships and grants to help students and their families offset the cost of attendance. These financial aid options can significantly reduce the financial burden of a college education and make higher education more accessible.
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Student loans
The Catholic University of America is a private institution with a tuition fee of $58,378. The total cost, including food, housing, books, supplies, transportation, and personal expenses, is $79,024. The average net price for federal loan recipients is $33,417.
The average need-based scholarship or grant awarded to first-year students is $45,376, with 74% of first-year students receiving this aid. The average need-based self-help aid, including federal loans and work-study, is $4,063. The average non-need-based scholarship or grant awarded to first-year students is $31,224. The Catholic University of America met 80% of its students' financial aid needs.
At The Catholic University of America, the median federal loan debt among borrowers who completed their undergraduate degree is $26,000. The median monthly federal loan payment, if repaid over 10 years at 5.05% interest, is $276. Additionally, 16% of graduating students took out private loans, with an average debt of $48,359.
To minimize student debt, it is recommended to rely on grants and scholarships as the primary forms of financial aid, as they do not need to be paid back. Working while in school can also help lessen the burden of student loans, and some schools offer work-study programs or campus jobs.
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Total cost: $79,024
The Catholic University of America is a private Catholic research university in Washington, D.C. It is ranked 64th in Best Value Schools and has a total undergraduate enrollment of 3,139 students (as of Fall 2023). The student-faculty ratio is 10:1, and the university offers a semester-based academic calendar.
The tuition and fees for the Catholic University of America are $58,378. This figure includes both tuition and fees, also known as the sticker price. However, the total cost of attendance is more comprehensive and includes the sticker price, as well as the cost of food and housing, books and supplies, transportation, and personal expenses. At the Catholic University of America, the total cost of attendance is $79,024.
It's important to note that most students don't pay the full price to attend the university. Financial aid is available, and it helps bridge the gap between the cost of attendance and what families can afford. The average need-based scholarship or grant awarded to first-year students at the university is $45,376. Additionally, 74% of first-year students received need-based financial aid in Fall 2022, and 62% of first-year students receive need-based financial aid overall. The average net price for federal loan recipients is $33,417.
The university also offers merit-based aid, also known as non-need-based aid, which is awarded for specific talents or academic achievements. Furthermore, the Catholic University of America provides scholarships such as the Pro Deo and Pro Patria Scholarship, which offers twelve undergraduate scholarships annually.
The high cost of attendance at the Catholic University of America may be a concern for prospective students and their families. However, it's worth noting that the university has been recognised for its value, ranking 64th in Best Value Schools. Additionally, the university has undergone recent developments, including refurbished residence halls and improved fitness centres, enhancing the student experience.
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Financial aid
The Catholic University of America offers financial aid to its students. One example is the CUAbroad Adversity Scholarship, which is awarded to up to five students per year. The scholarship amount is up to $500 for European locations and up to $1,000 for non-European locations. To be eligible, students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, be enrolled full-time, and demonstrate financial need. Additionally, recipients are required to participate in service activities, both in their host community abroad and upon their return to the Catholic University community. These activities might include promoting international education at the university or assisting with recruiting for CUAbroad.
The Catholic University of America also offers other scholarships and financial aid opportunities, which can be discussed with the university's financial aid office or found on their website. These opportunities can help students offset the cost of their education and make their academic goals more accessible.
One important aspect of financial aid at the Catholic University of America is the availability of need-based aid. The university understands that financing a college education can be a challenge for many students and families, so they offer need-based scholarships, grants, and other forms of assistance. These types of aid are typically awarded based on a student's financial situation and are designed to help make up the difference between the cost of attendance and what a student's family can afford to pay.
In addition to need-based aid, there are also merit-based scholarships offered by the Catholic University of America. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, or special talents in areas such as athletics, music, or community service. They can provide significant financial support and are often awarded to attract and retain high-achieving students.
Furthermore, the Catholic University of America also participates in federal and state financial aid programs, which can provide additional sources of funding for students. These programs often include grants, loans, and work-study opportunities that can help students cover their educational expenses. The university's financial aid office can guide students through the application process for these programs and help them understand their eligibility and the specific types of aid available.
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Frequently asked questions
The tuition fee is $58,378. This is higher than the national average cost of tuition of $47,890.
The average net price is $38,764 for the average student receiving need-based aid. The average net price for federal loan recipients is $33,417.
The total cost of attendance is $79,024. This includes tuition and fees, food and housing, books and supplies, transportation, and personal expenses.
Financial aid is available in the form of grants, scholarships, and loans. 62% of first-year students receive need-based financial aid, with an average need-based scholarship or grant of $45,376. The university also offers merit-based aid for specific talents or academic achievements.
Catholic University of America is more expensive than the average private not-for-profit school. However, it offers more financial aid and higher award sizes, resulting in lower student debt. The university also provides refurbished residence halls, fitness centres, and environmental sustainability programs, which add to the overall value.

















