Fairfield University
Fairfield, United States
Fairfield University
Fairfield, Connecticut, United States
Founded
1942
Institution Type
Private Jesuit
Total Students
6,700+
Student-Faculty Ratio
12:1
About Fairfield University: A Jesuit Tradition of Excellence
About Fairfield University: A Jesuit Tradition of Excellence
Fairfield University is a private Jesuit Catholic university located on a scenic 200-acre campus in Fairfield, Connecticut, just one hour from New York City. Founded by the Society of Jesus in 1942, the university has grown from an initial class of 303 male students into a coeducational institution enrolling approximately 5,400 undergraduates and 1,500 graduate students across five schools and colleges.
Rooted in the Ignatian tradition of educating the whole person — body, mind, and spirit — Fairfield emphasizes intellectual inquiry, social justice, and ethical leadership. The university offers 53 undergraduate majors, 48 master's degree programs, and 8 doctoral programs, supported by a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio that fosters close mentorship and personalized learning.
Fairfield has earned national recognition for undergraduate teaching, career outcomes, and return on investment. With over 68 Fulbright scholars since 1993 and a strong alumni network of more than 45,000 degree holders, the university prepares graduates for meaningful careers and lives of service in a constantly changing world.
Key Milestones
- 1942: Founded by the Society of Jesus after acquiring the Jennings and Lashar estates, becoming the 26th Jesuit college in the United States.
- 2000: Charles F. Dolan, founder of HBO, donated USD 25 million to the renamed Charles F. Dolan School of Business.
- 2017: Mark R. Nemec, PhD, became the 9th President, ushering in a new era of strategic growth and academic innovation.
- 2022: The state-of-the-art USD 52 million Leo D. Mahoney Arena opened, serving as home for basketball and volleyball programs.
Academic Schools and Colleges
Academic Schools and Colleges
Fairfield University's academic programs are organized into five distinct schools and colleges, each committed to a liberal humanistic approach that encourages interdisciplinary learning. Students benefit from small class sizes, hands-on research opportunities, and a comprehensive core curriculum grounded in the Jesuit educational tradition.
John Charles Meditz College of Arts and Sciences
The largest school at Fairfield, offering a broad liberal arts education spanning the humanities, sciences, social sciences, and fine arts. It serves as the intellectual foundation for all undergraduate students through the university's core curriculum.
- Biology
- Psychology
- Communication
Charles F. Dolan School of Business
Nationally ranked for programs in accounting, finance, and business analytics, the Dolan School combines rigorous business education with Jesuit values of ethical leadership and social responsibility.
- Finance
- Accounting
- Business Analytics
Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies
Ranked among the top nursing schools in the nation, the Egan School prepares students for careers in nursing, public health, and allied health fields through clinical partnerships and evidence-based practice.
- Nursing (BSN)
- Public Health
- Nurse Practitioner (DNP)
School of Engineering and Computing
Offering hands-on, project-based education in engineering and computer science disciplines, this school prepares students for careers in technology and innovation through collaborative research and industry partnerships.
- Computer Science
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
School of Education and Human Development
Dedicated to preparing educators, counselors, and human development professionals, this school offers graduate and undergraduate programs that emphasize reflective practice and community engagement.
- Elementary Education
- School Counseling
- Educational Technology
Graduate and Professional Studies
Fairfield offers a growing portfolio of graduate programs including an MBA, MFA in Creative Writing, and doctoral degrees, designed for working professionals and aspiring scholars seeking advanced credentials.
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- MFA in Creative Writing
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
- Application PlatformCommon Application accepted
- GPA (Average Admitted)Approximately 3.90 weighted GPA
- SAT/ACT (Middle 50%)SAT 1310–1420; ACT 27–31 (among submitters)
- English ProficiencyTOEFL or IELTS required for non-native English speakers
- Additional MaterialsTranscript, counselor recommendation, personal essay
Graduate Admission
- Degree RequirementBachelor's degree from an accredited institution
- GPA RecommendationMinimum 3.0 GPA preferred (varies by program)
- Standardized TestsGRE/GMAT may be required depending on program
- Letters of RecommendationTwo to three professional or academic references
- English ProficiencyTOEFL/IELTS required for international applicants
Non-binding early application option for students who want an early admissions decision.
Binding early decision for students who have identified Fairfield as their top choice.
Standard application deadline for fall enrollment and a second binding early decision option.
Priority deadline for submitting the FAFSA and CSS Profile to maximize financial aid eligibility.
Tuition, Costs, and Scholarships
Tuition, Costs, and Scholarships
As a private university, Fairfield charges the same tuition for in-state and out-of-state students. While the sticker price is significant, the university offers generous merit and need-based aid packages that substantially reduce the cost for most families.
| Expense Category | Annual Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | USD 60,410 | USD 60,410 |
| Room and Board | USD 19,020 | USD 19,020 |
| Books and Supplies | USD 1,175 | USD 1,175 |
| Other Expenses | USD 2,005 | USD 2,005 |
| Total | USD 80,510 | USD 80,510 |
Merit Scholarships
All admitted students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships ranging from USD 10,000 to USD 30,000 per year, based on a holistic review of their academic record and extracurricular involvement.
- Award Range: USD 10,000 – USD 30,000 per year
- Application Required: No — automatic consideration upon admission
- Applicable To: Tuition only; renewable for four years
Need-Based Financial Aid
Fairfield meets a significant portion of demonstrated financial need through grants and scholarships. The average need-based scholarship for first-year students is approximately USD 30,784.
- Average Need-Based Grant: USD 30,784 (first-year students)
- Students Receiving Aid: Approximately 37% of first-year students
- Need Met: 70% of demonstrated financial need
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
Fairfield University's 200-acre suburban campus is situated on Connecticut's Gold Coast, just two miles from Long Island Sound and approximately 60 miles from New York City. The campus blends historic estates with modern academic and residential facilities, offering students a picturesque environment for learning and community life.
The state-of-the-art USD 52 million arena opened in 2022 as the home of Stags basketball and volleyball.
Originally built in 1968 and expanded in 2001, the library serves as the academic hub of campus life.
Opened in 1990, the center houses a 740-seat theatre, black box theatre, and art gallery hosting performances and exhibitions year-round.
Housing and Dining
Residential Life
Fairfield offers a variety of on-campus housing options with a dormitory capacity of over 4,100 beds. All first-year students are required to live on campus, fostering a close-knit residential community.
- Traditional residence halls for first-year students (Campion, Gonzaga, Regis, Jogues, Loyola)
- Townhouse and apartment-style living for upperclassmen
- Barnyard Manor premium housing for juniors and seniors with private bedrooms and laundry
Dining and Recreation
The campus features multiple dining venues and a comprehensive recreation center. Meal plans are included with on-campus housing, and the RecPlex gym provides fitness and wellness facilities for all students.
- Multiple dining halls and cafes across campus
- RecPlex fitness center with gym, courts, and wellness programs
- Outdoor athletic fields including Rafferty Stadium and Lessing Field
Student Life at Fairfield
Student Life at Fairfield
Life at Fairfield is defined by a tight-knit community rooted in Jesuit values of service, reflection, and personal growth. With over 100 student clubs and organizations, 20 Division I athletic teams, and a vibrant campus culture, students find abundant opportunities to get involved and build meaningful connections.
Location: Fairfield, Connecticut
Location: Fairfield, Connecticut
Life in Fairfield, CT
Fairfield is a picturesque coastal town in southwestern Connecticut, frequently ranked among the best places to live in the United States. Located on the Gold Coast, it offers a blend of small-town charm, beautiful beaches, excellent dining, and easy access to the cultural and professional opportunities of New York City.
Proximity to New York City
Just 60 miles from Manhattan with Metro-North train service available from the Fairfield station, providing direct access to internships, cultural attractions, and career opportunities.
Coastal Living
The campus is just two miles from Long Island Sound, with five public beaches including Jennings Beach and Penfield Beach offering waterfront recreation year-round.
Fortune 500 Hub
Fairfield County boasts one of the largest concentrations of Fortune 500 companies in the nation, providing exceptional internship and networking opportunities for students.
Safe Suburban Setting
The suburban campus setting offers a safe, welcoming environment with local shops, restaurants, and cultural venues within easy reach of campus.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where Fairfield Graduates Work
Practical Information
Practical Information
For International Students
International students receive guidance on F-1 visa requirements, including certificate of eligibility (I-20) processing and maintaining valid immigration status throughout their studies.
Fairfield provides academic support resources to help international students strengthen their English language skills and succeed in an English-medium academic environment.
International students must demonstrate financial support for their education. Limited scholarship opportunities exist for international graduate students, particularly in engineering and nursing programs.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Fairfield University Rankings
Fairfield University Rankings
Fairfield University has earned growing national recognition for its academic programs, undergraduate teaching, and career outcomes. The university continues to rise in major rankings, reflecting its commitment to providing a high-quality Jesuit education.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Business (Finance) | U.S. News & World Report | #14 |
| Undergraduate Business Analytics | U.S. News & World Report | #14 |
| Undergraduate Nursing | U.S. News & World Report | #74 |
| Accounting and Finance | Niche | #35 in America |
Features
Fairfield University offers a close-knit, Jesuit-inspired learning environment, characterized by small class sizes and a low student-faculty ratio of 12:1\n.It has a scenic 200-acre suburban campus just an hour from New York City, fostering both community engagement and global opportunities \n.Driven by its commitment to holistic education, Fairfield supports innovative programs, experiential learning, and strong career outcomes—with over 98% of graduates securing employment, attending graduate school, or engaging in service within six months of commencement \n.The institution also emphasizes global perspectives with representation from over 40 countries among its students

Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.

Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.

Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
January - April
Location
1073 N Benson Rd, Fairfield, CT 06824
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