How To Apply
If you're ready for a unique college experience that combines academics, experiential learning and leadership development – if you’re ready to be a part of something larger than yourself, then the President’s Leadership Program (PLP) is for you.
Approximately 400 freshmen enroll each year. These students have exhibited strong leadership characteristics in their schools and communities.
Some may have never thought of themselves as leaders, but are prepared to learn more and challenge themselves.
Applying to PLP
We give priority consideration for PLP scholarships to students who apply for freshman admission by the November 15 Early Decision or the December 1 Early Action deadlines.
- Apply to the university using the Common Application.
- Select “Yes” for President’s Leadership Program and/or Honors Program in the Scholarships section of the Common Application.
- Complete the mandatory essay questions.
- Schedule an admission interview (required for scholarship consideration).
Students are selected on the basis of academic achievement, as well as demonstration of leadership potential. On average, new students enrolled in PLP this past year had a 4.0 high school GPA and 1300 on the SAT (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and Math). Standardized test scores are optional for PLP (or Honors) admission consideration. Applications are reviewed holistically on an individual basis. If submitted, test scores are considered as an evaluative measure.
Preference is given to applicants who complete the required essays and interview by December 15. Those who meet the priority deadline will be notified via mail on February 1. The final deadline to apply and interview is February 15 with notification on April 1.
Incoming freshmen PLP students are eligible for priority housing in a learning community with other members of the Leadership and Honors Programs
Beginning August 1, students who have already applied to the university but did not apply to the scholarship programs can apply via the application in the Learn More section on this webpage. Only students who have already applied for admission to CNU are able to access this application, using credentials for the Applicant Status Portal.