Cornerstone is one of America's Best Colleges according to the Wall Street Journal

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Admissions

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Tuition & Financial Aid

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Student Experience

Cornerstone is one of America's best online colleges according to Newsweek

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Three crosses statue located near the sidewalk leading to the campus bell tower and Christ Chapel at Cornerstone University Three crosses statue located near the sidewalk leading to the campus bell tower and Christ Chapel at Cornerstone University Three crosses statue located near the sidewalk leading to the campus bell tower and Christ Chapel at Cornerstone University

First-Year Admissions

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Admissions

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Your First-Year College Experience at Cornerstone

You’re ready to start college—and we’re excited to help you get here. Let us guide you through a simple admissions process so you can connect and be ready to join the Golden Eagle community and experience an unforgettable first year at Cornerstone University.

Strong academic foundation

Classes that create a strong academic foundation

Supportive faculty

Faculty who know you and support your progress

Faith-building community

Community and faith- building activities

Personalized resources

Personalized resources to stay on track

How to Apply to Cornerstone University

We make the college admissions process clear and straightforward. Use the Golden Eagle Application to apply as a first-time undergraduate student—whether you plan to live on campus or commute.

Steps to Apply

  1. Submit your application
  2. Send your high school transcript
  3. Receive your admissions decision
  4. Confirm your enrollment

Explore majors and programs

Already using the Common App? You can apply to Cornerstone there as well.

Important Dates and Deadlines

Apply as soon as you’re ready. Applying earlier gives you the most options for scholarships, housing, and class registration.

  • FAFSA opens: October
  • Scholarship priority deadline: January 10
  • Financial aid packages begin: Late February
  • Housing priority deadline: March 1
  • Applications reviewed on a rolling basis through mid-August

First-Year Admission Requirements

High School GPA of 2.5. – Submit official high school transcripts and dual enrollment transcripts electronically or by mail in a sealed envelope.

ACT, SAT or CLT scores. Not required. – You can submit them as part of your application.

  • Recommended: ACT 19 | SAT 1000 | CLT 64
  • Some programs may require test scores for admission.

Pathway Program – If your academic performance is close to the admission expectations, you may still be admitted. The Pathway Program provides added structure and academic support. Each application is reviewed individually to help you choose your best path.

Submit Your Transcripts and College Credit

If you’ve taken college courses in high school, here’s how those credits are evaluated and how to submit your transcripts.

College Credit (Dual Enrollment)

Cornerstone will accept college credits from an accredited institution that are 100-level or higher, with a grade of C- or better earned for the entire course. Technical courses will not transfer to Cornerstone.

How to Send Your Transcript

Electronic transcripts: U.S. students can request official transcripts through their high school guidance counselor or services like Parchment, Scoir, Naviance, or National Student Clearinghouse

Paper transcripts (Mail):
U.S. students can request transcripts be sent in a sealed envelope to:
Cornerstone University
Attn: Admissions Office
1001 East Beltline Ave. NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49525

Homeschool and International Transcripts

More Admission Resources

Find additional information to guide you on your way:

Cornerstone University Campus

Visit Cornerstone’s Campus

Worship in chapel or sit in on a class. Meet students and professors. Walk the campus and see what your first year could actually look like.

Direct Admission

Some high school seniors may qualify for a direct admission offer from Cornerstone University. Students who receive this invitation can complete a Direct Admit Student Profile, helping simplify the process. Ask your admissions counselor if you qualify. Some academic programs may require an additional application.

Tuition & Financial Aid

A private, Christ-centered education with tuition designed to be accessible—so you can move forward without taking on unnecessary debt. Most students receive scholarships and financial aid.

Cornerstone University Campus

Next Steps After You Are Accepted

Once you’re accepted, here’s how to secure your place and prepare for your first semester.

Lets get you started at Cornerstone University!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Cornerstone University use the Common App?

Yes. You can apply using the Golden Eagle Application or the Common App.

What GPA do you need to get into Cornerstone University?

A minimum high school GPA of 2.5 is required. All students are encouraged to apply as each application is reviewed individually to determine the best path for your success. Students who are close to meeting admissions requirements may be granted admission to the Pathway Program.

Does Cornerstone require CLT, SAT, or ACT scores?

No. Test scores are optional but may be submitted.

How do I apply to Cornerstone University?

You can apply using the Golden Eagle Application or the Common App. Follow the steps above to get started and submit your application.

What do I need to apply to Cornerstone University?

You’ll need a completed application and your official high school transcript. Additional documents may be requested depending on your application.

When should I apply to Cornerstone University?

You can apply as soon as you’re ready. Applying earlier gives you more options for scholarships, housing, and class registration.

How long does the admissions process take?

Once your application and transcript are received, you’ll receive an admissions decision along with next steps to move forward – most of the time within 48 hours!

Can I visit Cornerstone University before applying?

Yes. Visiting campus is one of the best ways to experience the community, meet students and faculty, and see if Cornerstone is the right fit for you.

Does Cornerstone accept dual enrollment or college credit from high school?

Yes. Cornerstone accepts college credits from accredited institutions that are 100-level or higher with a grade of C- or better.

Cornerstone University

Hours

MON - FRI: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
SAT & SUN: Closed

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