Scholarships
Scholarship Opportunities and Financial Support
At Christopher Newport, we believe cost should never stand in the way of opportunity. That’s why we offer a wide range of scholarships - academic, leadership, talent-based, and need-based - so you can focus on your future, not your finances. Each year, Captains receive millions of dollars in awards, funded by the university, generous donors, and outside organizations. Whether you’re an incoming freshman or a transfer student, a variety of options are available for you to review and apply for. Let’s find the one that fits you.
CNU and the FAFSA
The key to unlocking thousands of dollars in scholarships and financial aid starts with one step: completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Our Office of Financial Aid will walk you through every stage, from meeting crucial deadlines to gathering documents and understanding any changes to the form. Submitting your FAFSA guarantees you’re in the running for every dollar of aid you deserve.
Apply for Financial Aid
2026-2027 FAFSA and VASA Deadlines
Priority Deadline
March 1, 2026
Those received by the priority filing date will be considered for all eligible financial aid, contingent on available funding.
Christopher Newport Foundation
The CNU Foundation works with generous individuals and local businesses who believe in our students and their potential. Together, they make it possible to award scholarships that celebrate achievement, honor leadership, and provide vital financial support. Many of these awards are designed with a personal touch, tailored to specific majors, passions, or life experiences, so every Captain can find opportunities that fit their journey.
Selections for these scholarships are made by the Office of Financial Aid in the summer. Many of these scholarships require financial need. In order to be considered for need-based scholarships, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the priority deadline of March 1 and include our school code (003706).
Across campus, academic departments celebrate and invest in the top talent. From breakthrough research in the sciences to inspiring creativity in the arts, these scholarships recognize students who show exceptional promise to make an impact in the world.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.
Students selected for the President’s Leadership Program (PLP) or the Honors Program join an elite group of scholars and leaders, and may qualify for some of CNU’s most prestigious scholarships. These awards recognize not only academic excellence, but also a commitment to leadership, service, and making a lasting impact on the community.
Incoming Freshman Scholarships
From competitive merit awards to vital need-based aid, incoming freshmen can tap into a wide range of scholarships that open doors and remove barriers. These opportunities make CNU not only an exceptional place to learn and grow, but also an affordable investment in your future.
Additional Scholarships
Private Scholarships
Private scholarships are another great way to help fund your CNU education. While they can take time to find and apply for, the payoff can significantly reduce your need for loans or part-time work. We’ll help you navigate how these awards fit into your overall financial aid package so every dollar you earn works for you.
Military Scholarships
At CNU, Army ROTC cadets have access to powerful scholarship opportunities that go beyond traditional support, offering full tuition, fees, and even an option to cover room and board when qualified. You'll also receive a monthly stipend (available to both scholarship and contracted cadets) and a $600 book allowance each semester, helping you focus on leadership, not finances. Whether you're applying as a high school senior through our Advanced Designee program, joining through a campus-based scholarship, or exploring options like the Green to Gold or Reserve Duty scholarships, we’re here to help you serve and succeed.
Tuition
See the full breakdown of costs and learn why a CNU education is a smart investment in your future.
Registrar
Discover how the Office of the Registrar supports you with course registration, transcripts, and academic records.
Student Success
Explore the wide range of resources and support services designed to help every Captain thrive.
President's Leadership Program
Learn how the PLP shapes leaders through exceptional academics, service, and personal growth.