Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University is a private university known for one of the largest online and global student populations among US institutions, alongside a moderate published CGPA floor for its graduate programmes.

Southern New Hampshire University admission guide for international students
Explore Southern New Hampshire University admissions, tuition fees, scholarships, rankings, and student life.

Institution size

Very large, primarily online enrollment

Min. CGPA floor

2.75

Tuition / yr

$15k–$19k

Type

Private university

Key Facts

CategoryDetail
LocationManchester, New Hampshire (with large online programme), United States
TypePrivate university
Institution sizeVery large, primarily online enrollment
RankingsNot featured in traditional research-focused rankings; recognised nationally in the US as one of the largest online and global student populations of any university.
Notable featureOne of the largest online student bodies among US universities
Official websitesnhu.edu

Admission Requirements for Low CGPA and Backlog Applicants

  • Published minimum graduate CGPA: 2.75
  • Requirement applies across most graduate programmes, both on-campus and online
  • Online delivery may affect visa eligibility for F-1 students; confirm the specific programme’s format before applying

Tuition and Fees

ItemApproximate Range
Graduate tuition$15k–$19k per year
Living costs (Manchester, NH)Moderate; below major coastal cities

Figures are indicative and reviewed annually by the institution. Confirm current rates directly with the university before budgeting.

Programmes Offered

  • Business Administration
  • Psychology
  • Criminal Justice
  • Communication
  • Data Analytics
  • Education
  • Sport Management
  • Cybersecurity

This list covers the primary subject areas available; it is not the full course catalogue. Confirm the complete, current list of programmes directly on the university’s official course finder.

Degree Levels Offered

  • Diploma / Certificate: Offered
  • Undergraduate (Bachelor’s): Offered
  • Postgraduate (Master’s / MSc / MA): Offered
  • Doctorate (PhD): Offered
  • Post-Doctoral Fellowship: Not offered at this institution
  • Short Courses: Offered

Availability of Short Courses and Post-Doctoral Fellowship positions can vary by department and is not always centrally advertised; confirm current openings directly with the relevant faculty.

Scholarships and Funding

  • Institutional scholarships available for qualifying students
  • Online programme pricing structures differ from on-campus rates; confirm current terms directly with admissions

Application Process

  1. Confirm the specific CGPA, GPA, or classification requirement for the target programme directly with the admissions office
  2. Complete required English proficiency testing (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) if applicable
  3. Prepare transcripts, statement of purpose, recommendation letters or references, and a resume or CV
  4. Submit the application through the university’s official admissions portal and pay the application fee
  5. Await the admission decision and, once accepted, pay any required deposit
  6. Apply for the relevant student visa or study permit using the offer letter and financial documentation

Admission Outlook

SNHU’s scale and largely online delivery model make it genuinely affordable, but international students specifically requiring an F-1 visa should confirm their target programme’s on-campus format and in-person requirements before applying.

Campus Life

Manchester, New Hampshire serves as SNHU’s physical campus hub, though the university’s identity is defined more by its large online and global student population than a single campus location.

International students generally have access to a dedicated international student office, orientation programming, and student clubs and societies. Housing options typically include on-campus or university-affiliated accommodation alongside private rental options; applicants should apply for housing as early as possible after accepting an offer, since availability varies by intake and city.

Other Essential Information

CategoryDetail
Typical intakesFall (August/September) is the primary intake with the widest programme availability; Spring (January) intake is offered by many universities with more limited programme choice.
English language requirementIELTS overall band 6.0-6.5 or TOEFL iBT 70-90 is typical for graduate admission, varying by programme.
Student visa typeF-1 Student Visa
Post-study work optionsOptional Practical Training (OPT) allows up to 12 months of post-study work authorisation, extendable to 36 months for STEM-designated degrees.

Official Resources

Compare Southern New Hampshire University against other accessible universities on our Find a Course page, or contact us for help confirming eligibility.