
1001 East Beltline Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525-5897, USA


Cornerstone University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accrediting body recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. This accreditation affirms that the university meets established standards for quality in higher education.
In addition to regional accreditation, several of the university's programs have received specialized accreditation from professional organizations relevant to their fields. This ensures that academic offerings maintain industry-specific standards, which can be important for students pursuing careers in those disciplines.
Prospective students applying to Cornerstone University must have completed a General Educational Development (GED) credential or an equivalent high school diploma. Submission of a secondary school record is mandatory, and a minimum high school GPA is required to be considered for admission. Although not obligatory, ranking in the secondary school class and prior college coursework are recommended to strengthen the application. English proficiency is assessed through a mandatory Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) requirement for non-native speakers.
Admission testing scores such as the SAT and ACT are recommended but not compulsory. The university suggests submission of other standardized test scores and assessment of specific competencies to enhance the application profile. Cornerstone University does not follow an open admission policy and does not offer dual credit options. Yet, it accepts transfer credits and Advanced Placement (AP) credits from prospective students.
The acceptance rate at Cornerstone University stands at approximately 73%, positioning it above the national average in selectivity. The average SAT composite score for admitted students is near 1095, reflecting performance in the lower 35th percentile nationally. The mean ACT score is around 23, which also falls within the lower 40th percentile. The distribution of ACT scores shows that over half of enrolled students scored below 29, indicating a moderate level of academic selectivity.
Cornerstone University requires prospective students to submit an application fee as part of the admission process. This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with reviewing applications. However, applicants may be eligible for fee waivers under specific conditions, designed to reduce financial barriers for those who demonstrate need or meet particular criteria set by the university.
Fee waivers can be granted to students who qualify through documented financial need, participation in certain educational programs, or by meeting other institutional guidelines. Prospective students are encouraged to inquire directly with the university's admissions office to determine eligibility and the process for obtaining a waiver. This approach reflects Cornerstone University's effort to make higher education more accessible without compromising the thoroughness of its admissions review.
Cornerstone University does not have any Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs directly available on its campus. Prospective students interested in pursuing an ROTC pathway typically need to enroll in such programs through affiliated institutions or nearby universities that offer Army, Navy, or Air Force ROTC training. This arrangement requires coordination with the respective ROTC units and may involve commuting or dual enrollment.
Cornerstone University welcomes transfer students for all academic terms, including fall, winter, spring, and summer sessions. The institution accepts transfer credits from various sources to facilitate a smooth transition for incoming students. Specifically, credits earned through CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) exams, both subject-specific and general, as well as DANTES (Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support) exams, are recognized and accepted.
Additionally, prospective transfer students can submit letters of recommendation as part of their application, which the university considers during the admission process. Credits from other accredited institutions are also accepted, allowing students to carry forward previously earned academic progress. This flexibility demonstrates Cornerstone University's commitment to accommodating students with diverse educational backgrounds and supporting their academic advancement.
Cornerstone University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enrich students' academic and cultural experiences. The programs emphasize immersive learning in diverse international settings, allowing students to engage directly with global communities.
Students can participate in faculty-led short-term trips, which typically occur during academic breaks and focus on specific themes relevant to their course of study. These trips often combine classroom instruction with cultural excursions and service projects, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the host country.
In addition, Cornerstone University supports semester-long study abroad programs in partnership with accredited institutions overseas. These longer programs enable students to fully integrate into the academic and social life of another country, often earning credits transferable to their degree requirements.
The university also encourages students to explore its approved international internships and research opportunities, which provide practical experience and professional development in a global context. These options help students apply their academic knowledge while gaining valuable insights into different work environments.
Overall, Cornerstone University's study abroad offerings cater to various academic majors and schedules, presenting students with flexible and meaningful options to enhance their education abroad.
Median composite SAT score
1095Median composite ACT score
23Percent of students submitting ACT scores
8%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
61%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
Data not availableSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RecommendedRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
RecommendedTOEFL (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
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
NoPreparation 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, Winter, Spring, Summer