Undergraduate Admissions
Cumberland University is a special place. We hope you can see yourself thriving with our Phoenix family. Students like you make us who we are – a university on the rise. We’re excited you’re considering Cumberland University. Our team will do everything we can to answer your questions, guide you through the admission process and share all CU has to offer.
General Admissions Requirements
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Completed online application
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Official academic transcript(s) (including Dual Enrollment Courses)
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$25 application fee ($50 for International Students)
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Immunization records
TEST OPTIONAL Policy for First-Time Freshmen Entering Fall 2025
First-year students granted admission without a standardized test score and/or without dual enrollment credit may initially be placed into entry level math and English courses, but given the opportunity to test out of their initial placement.
Homeschooled students from Tennessee must score a 21 or higher on the ACT to be eligible for the TN HOPE scholarship program.
Apply Starting August 1
Our recommended deadline is January 1. Applying by this date will guarantee you receive a decision before spring which gives you a chance to be fully informed about scholarships and other financial aid options available to you.
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August 1 - CU Application Opens
Sometimes when you know, you know. Applying between August 1 and October 15 allows you to receive an admissions decision early so you can concentrate on high school senior year activities without having to spend so much time on college admissions.
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October 1 - FAFSA Application Opens (*FAFSA for the 2024-2025 school year will open in December 2023)
*FAFSA for the 2024-2025 school year will open in December 2023
Completing the FAFSA is one of the most important things to check off your to-do list when applying for college.
The FAFSA, Free Application for Student Aid, is used to determine if you are eligible for federal, state, school or even private financial aid. By completing the FAFSA, you’ll be able to apply for federal and state grants, loans and work studies, as well as school and private scholarships. Basically, the FAFSA is your first step for receiving monetary assistance for your entire college career. Make certain you have your FAFSA sent to Cumberland University. School code: 003485
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November 1 - Tennessee Promise Application Closes
Seniors who are Tennessee residents may apply for the Tennessee Promise scholarship, which will provide two years of tuition-free attendance at CU.
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March 1 - FAFSA Application Deadline
This is the last day for you to file your 2023-2024 FAFSA. Make certain to have your FAFSA sent to Cumberland University. School code: 003485
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April 1 - CU Scholarships Deadline
There are a variety of ways you can pay for your college education and receive financial assistance. We award over $300,000 in private and endowed scholarships every year. Be sure to apply.
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July 1 - Complete and report your first 8 hours of TN Promise community service
For you to maintain TN Promise scholarship eligibility, you are required to perform 8 hours of community service prior to each term the award is received.
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July 13 - Last day to take the ACT
Last day to take the ACT. Make certain your student has their scores sent to Cumberland University. School code: 3954
*UPDATE: In response to the reduced number of national and state testing dates for ACT and SAT caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Cumberland University is suspending the requirement for standardized test scores for students seeking admission as first time freshmen. In lieu of standardized testing scores, all students with a high school GPA below 3.0 must complete the Personal Statement and Resilience Questionnaire.
Preview CU
The best way to see if CU is the right fit for you is to visit our campus. On a campus visit you’ll have the opportunity to tour the campus, meet current students, see a residence hall, and learn about scholarship opportunities at CU.
Have questions? We have answers.
Check out our Undergraduate Admission FAQs.
Already Admitted?
If you’ve already been admitted to CU, then you’re ready to officially become part of our Phoenix Family. We can’t wait to add your enthusiasm and new ideas to our campus experience. There are a few more steps left to complete before your first day. You can find all the information you need about confirming your decision, applying for financial aid, living on campus, registering for classes, and attending orientation here.