Christopher Newport University Named One of America’s Best Colleges by Princeton Review

Christopher Newport University is getting national recognition once again, and students couldn’t be prouder. According to the latest Princeton Review rankings, CNU is officially one of the best colleges in the country. And what makes this even more impressive? The ranking is based entirely on student feedback.

Recognition

In the 2026 edition of “The Best 391 Colleges,” the Princeton Review shines a spotlight on Christopher Newport as a top-tier institution for undergraduates. Unlike other rankings that rely on stats and faculty opinions, this one is based solely on what students have to say about their own campus experiences.

CNU students didn’t hold back in praising their school. They called it a “welcoming community” filled with “super optimistic and outgoing people,” highlighting the strong culture of involvement both on and off campus.

Support

It’s clear that students at Christopher Newport don’t just attend class and leave. They’re part of a tight-knit, supportive network. One student described it as the “most supportive network any student could ask for.” Another said, “faculty are always an ear when needed,” making professors one of the university’s strongest assets.

Whether it’s walking to class or heading to a club meeting, students said the atmosphere is friendly and respectful. You’ll often see people waving, smiling at strangers, or going out of their way to hold the door open. It’s the kind of place where people genuinely care about one another.

Health

Aside from being named a “Best College,” CNU also landed on another impressive list — No. 22 in the nation for “Best Health Services.” That’s a big deal, especially for students balancing academics, activities, and life in general. It shows the university is just as focused on student well-being as it is on classroom success.

Here’s a quick snapshot of recent Princeton Review rankings for CNU:

Category	Ranking
Best Colleges	Listed nationally
Best Health Services	#22 in the U.S.
Best College Dorms (2025)	#4 public, #1 in Virginia

Experience

The students surveyed praised not only the academics but also the day-to-day experience on campus. Describing their peers as “driven and friendly,” they highlighted a culture of kindness and shared purpose. That energy seems to show up everywhere — in the classroom, in campus clubs, and even just walking through the quad.

One student summed it up perfectly: “While walking to class, you quickly see friends or classmates, and nobody is afraid to wave or ask how your day is going.”

Selective

It’s important to note that only about 15% of the nearly 2,400 four-year colleges in the U.S. make it into the Princeton Review’s guide. That means CNU is in pretty elite company. Editor-in-Chief Rob Franek emphasized that these rankings come straight from students and reflect genuine on-campus experiences.

If you’re thinking about applying, know that CNU values more than just test scores. While your high school curriculum still matters, the university is also looking at your character and goals to see if you’re a good fit for their community.

At the end of the day, the message from students is loud and clear: Christopher Newport University isn’t just a place to study — it’s a place to belong.

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