The journey connecting freshman orientation with the walk across the commencement stage is paradoxically long and yet, just a brief passage of time. We know that as a parent or honored family member, you want these next four years to matter — for these amazing young adults to gain essential skills, to mature and grow in character, to experience or deepen their spiritual foundations, and find meaningful career success.

At Catholic University, we want the same — and more. We want each year's incoming class to learn to think for themselves, to develop an active love for knowledge that embraces the best of human reasoning along with the revelations brought forth through a deep and abiding faith.

Parents value Catholic University's distinct approach — the recognition that virtues and knowledge remain an integrative part of leading a rich, full, purpose-driven life. We share a common goal — helping students become fully reflective professionals, uniquely capable of articulating and defending their own opinions, attitudes, values, and beliefs.

Student living

Students express great anticipation — and sometimes apprehension — about living apart from home. The initial steps toward independence are key — and studies show that students who engage with groups and activities outside of academics adjust best and thrive.

Health and Wellness

Taking care of one’s whole self — body, mind, spirit — is an essential part of dealing with the challenges and stress of a college curriculum, time management and the larger transition to adulthood.

Academics

While students are expected to make their own choices about academic majors, many seek out guidance from parents and family members who know their emerging strengths and weaknesses.

Academic and Career Success

While Catholic University and its location in the nation’s capital offer many advantages, students still must show a willingness to go after every opportunity — internships, mentoring, student research, travel — to realize their goals.

Student Safety

Student safety is our highest priority. The Department of Public Safety provides comprehensive programs, including security patrol, safe escort and transportation, identification and access services, and emergency alerts to maintain a safe and secure campus environment that is conducive to learning, working, living, and visiting.

Billing and Financial Aid

The Office of Enrollment Services manages billing for student accounts through a fully electronic system that enables parents to view current and past bills, due dates, and cumulative billing and payment activity. Budgeted payment plans are available. Over the last three years, 95% of our first-year students received scholarships and/or grants directly from Catholic University through our Financial Aid Office.

Smart Start

Smart Start is a two-day orientation program hosted by The Office of Disability Support Services for any incoming students with a documented disability. The purpose of the program is to prepare students and their families for the transition to university life by introducing various academic, social, and other campus resources and personnel. 

  • Advancement Parents Council members

    Parents Council

    The Parents Council is a group of highly engaged parents who are dedicated to the mission of The Catholic University of America and seek to expand the opportunities available for today’s students.

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  • Parents with student on move-in day

    Family Nest

    The "Family Nest" is a portal that will allow parents and other authorized users to customize information they receive from CatholicU based on interests, your student's experiences, and much more.

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  • Students gather under cherry blossoms

    Admission Information for Parents & Families

    Catholic University knows you play a major role in selecting the best school for your student. We want to help you assess if Catholic University is the right fit and connect you to the resources needed during the admission journey.

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  • Student Orientation advisors

    Orientation

    The Orientation program facilitates the successful transition of new undergraduate students into Catholic University's intellectual, social, and faith based communities; promotes student learning and development, encourages independence, and individual responsibility; and facilitates continued student success to graduation.

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