Several grants, both federal and state, are available to eligible Christopher Newport University students.

In general, to be eligible for a grant, a student must:

  • demonstrate financial need.
  • be accepted to Christopher Newport University as a classified, degree-seeking student.
  • be enrolled at CNU. If you are enrolled in at least 12 hours, you may receive a full financial aid award. If you are enrolled less than full-time, you may receive a partial award.
  • make Satisfactory Academic Progress.
  • be a US citizen, permanent resident of the United States or its trust territories, or an eligible noncitizen.
  • not be in default on any student loan, or owe a refund on financial aid received while attending any institution.
  • have a valid Social Security Number.
  • be registered with the Selective Service if required.

Christopher Newport University participates in two federal grant programs:

  • Federal Pell Grant: A need-based federal grant administered by CNU. Awards are determined by the Department of Education. Students who already have a Bachelor's degree are not eligible for Pell Grants.
  • Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant: A federally-funded grant available to students who have not yet earned their first baccalaureate degree.  Students must demonstrate exceptional financial need to receive FSEOG.

Several state grants are also available to undergraduate students who are determined to be Virginia residents and who have not received a bachelor's degree:

  • College Scholarship Assistance Program: (CSAP) is available to Virginia residents who demonstrate the greatest financial need.
  • Virginia Commonwealth Award: A state grant available to students enrolled at least half-time.
  • Virginia Guaranteed Assistance Program: (VGAP) is awarded to Virginia residents who graduate from a Virginia high school with a 2.50 or higher grade point average. Students must attend CNU on a full-time basis, and must maintain a 2.00 GPA to be considered for the grant in future years.
  • Higher Education Teacher Assistance Program: (HETAP) is available to Virginia residents who demonstrate great financial need and who are pursuing a degree in education.

Grants are based on Congressional or State allocations and funds are limited. Students are strongly encouraged to meet the Priority Consideration Date of March 1 to be considered for federal and state grants. Although every effort is made to meet the needs of all students, the Financial Aid Office cannot guarantee that grant funds, except Pell, ACG, and SMART Grant funds, will be available for students who fail to meet the Priority Consideration Date.