
1646 Russell Ave., Jefferson City, TN 37760, USA


Carson-Newman University maintains accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), which authorizes the institution to award bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. This regional accreditation signifies that the university meets established standards of quality and effectiveness in higher education.
Carson-Newman University maintains selective admission standards, requiring applicants to provide a secondary school record along with a demonstrated secondary school GPA. While submission of secondary school rank is recommended, it is not mandatory. Prospective students must also have completed a college preparatory program and present TOEFL scores for English proficiency. Although admission tests are not strictly required, other standardized test results are suggested to support the application.
The university does not operate under an open admission policy, indicating that not all applicants are guaranteed acceptance. Dual credit options are not available; however, Carson-Newman University does accept credit for prior learning, including Advanced Placement credits.
The profile of enrolled students shows that 70% submitted ACT scores, with a mean ACT score of 22 reflecting a range primarily between 17 and 29. The average SAT score at the university is 1045, positioning it in the lower 25th percentile nationally. Acceptance rates stand at approximately 68%, reflecting a moderate level of selectivity relative to other institutions.
The application fee at Carson-Newman University is set at $50 for all prospective undergraduate students. This fee is required upon submission of the application to the university. However, the university offers fee waivers to certain applicants who meet specific criteria, making the application process more accessible for those with financial need.
Applicants who qualify for fee waivers include those who receive state or federal assistance, participate in programs such as the Free or Reduced-Price Lunch Program, or are enrolled in the Federal TRIO programs. Additionally, fee waivers may be granted to students who demonstrate significant financial hardship through documentation. These waivers help lower barriers for students who might otherwise be discouraged by application costs.
Prospective students seeking a fee waiver must submit the appropriate documentation along with their application or coordinate with the university's admissions office. It is advisable for applicants to inquire early to ensure ample time for processing and consideration of their fee waiver requests.
Carson-Newman University does not host its own ROTC branch unit on campus. However, prospective students interested in pursuing ROTC training may participate through a cooperating host institution that supports ROTC programs. This arrangement allows students to engage in ROTC activities and training, even though the university itself does not maintain an independent ROTC unit.
Carson-Newman University welcomes transfer students for the fall, spring, and summer terms, offering flexibility for those planning to join at various points throughout the academic year. The institution accepts transfer credits, including those earned through CLEP exams in both subject-specific and general categories, which can help facilitate a smoother transition for students seeking to apply prior learning toward their degree requirements. Prospective students are also encouraged through accepted recommendations to strengthen their applications, demonstrating the university's openness to multiple evaluation methods in its admissions process.
Carson-Newman University offers its students several opportunities to engage in study abroad programs designed to enhance academic learning through international experience. These programs include faculty-led trips that provide immersive cultural and educational experiences in various countries, allowing students to earn academic credit while exploring global perspectives.
In addition to short-term study abroad options, the university supports semester-long exchanges through partnerships with institutions overseas. These longer programs enable students to live and study in another country for an extended period, deepening their understanding of different cultures and academic environments.
Students interested in practical experience can also participate in service-learning trips abroad, which combine community service with coursework. These programs emphasize hands-on involvement and cultural exchange, broadening students' worldviews while contributing positively to host communities.
Overall, the available study abroad options at Carson-Newman University offer a range of durations and focuses, from brief explorations to comprehensive immersion, catering to diverse student interests and academic goals.
Median composite SAT score
1045Median composite ACT score
22Percent of students submitting ACT scores
70%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
5%Computer required
Data not availableComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
Data not availableSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
Data not availableDisabilities services
Data not availableOff-campus study
Data not availableROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer