
524 West 59th Street, New York City, NY 10019, USA


CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, which is a recognized regional accrediting body. This accreditation confirms that the institution meets rigorous standards of quality and integrity in its academic programs and administrative operations. Additionally, several individual programs within the college have earned specialized accreditations, ensuring focused recognition for specific fields of study.
For prospective students, regional accreditation is a key factor as it affects credit transferability, eligibility for federal financial aid, and the overall recognition of degrees by employers and graduate programs. The college's accreditation status thus reflects its commitment to maintaining educational excellence and accountability.
Prospective students seeking admission to CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice must fulfill several academic prerequisites. A General Educational Development (GED) certificate is required in lieu of a traditional high school diploma. Applicants need to provide their secondary school academic records and demonstrate a satisfactory Grade Point Average. Although secondary school class rank is advised for consideration, it is not mandatory.
Acceptance into a college program is mandatory, with evidence of required competencies expected from applicants. While official recommendations are not strictly required, they are encouraged to strengthen the application. English proficiency must be demonstrated through the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), while other standardized tests are suggested but not compulsory.
The college does not offer open admission or dual credit options, but it recognizes credits from previous college coursework and Advanced Placement (AP) exams. Computer ownership or leasing is not required for admission.
Admissions to the college remain competitive despite the absence of published standardized test score requirements. The institution received 17,921 applications with 10,255 admitted, representing a 57% acceptance rate, which situates it in the lower 30th percentile for selectivity. Enrollment figures indicate 2,033 students matriculated, with women comprising a notable majority.
The application fee for CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice is set at $70 for prospective undergraduate students. This fee must be paid at the time of submission of the application and is non-refundable. The college acknowledges that this expense may present a barrier for some applicants and therefore provides opportunities for fee waivers under certain conditions.
Applicants who demonstrate financial need can request a fee waiver by submitting the appropriate documentation through the College Board or the Common Application platforms. Additionally, students participating in specific programs, such as those from underrepresented groups or who meet eligibility criteria outlined by the institution, might also qualify for waivers. These provisions aim to ensure that financial constraints do not inhibit qualified candidates from applying.
It is recommended that prospective students review the specific waiver eligibility guidelines on the official admissions website and initiate the waiver request well before application deadlines to allow sufficient processing time.
CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice does not offer its own dedicated ROTC programs on campus. However, students interested in ROTC opportunities typically participate through nearby institutions that host these programs. This arrangement allows students to pursue a military leadership training curriculum while completing their academic studies at the college.
Transfer students seeking admission to CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice may apply for enrollment in both the fall and spring semesters. The institution accepts transfer credits, allowing students to bring prior coursework into their academic record. Additionally, the college recognizes standardized credit-by-exam programs such as CLEP (both subject and general exams) and DANTES, providing flexibility in how students can accumulate credits.
Admission is considered moderately difficult, indicating a selective but accessible process for applicants. Prospective transfer students may also submit letters of recommendation as part of their application, which the college does accept to support the evaluation process.
CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice offers various opportunities for students interested in studying abroad, designed to complement its focus on criminal justice and related fields. The college provides semester-long and summer programs that allow students to immerse themselves in different cultures while gaining academic credit relevant to their major. These programs often emphasize practical experience and global perspectives on criminal justice, law enforcement, and public policy.
Students can participate in faculty-led trips to international destinations, where they engage in coursework, site visits, and cultural excursions. Such programs aim to deepen students' understanding of justice systems outside the United States and foster comparative analysis skills.
Additionally, the college supports exchange programs in partnership with universities worldwide. These exchanges enable students to study at foreign institutions for a semester or academic year, experiencing a different academic environment and expanding their global network.
Financial aid and scholarships specific to study abroad are available to help offset program costs, making international study more accessible to a diverse student body. Students are encouraged to consult the college's study abroad office for detailed information on eligibility, application procedures, and program options to find the best fit for their academic and professional goals.
High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RequiredAdmission 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
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
NoEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring