What Makes St. John’s University in Queens, NY, Unmissable
St. John’s University is renowned for its diverse academic programs, distinguished faculty, and lively campus environment. Whether you are a prospective student or just want to learn more, this guide provides a detailed look at several factors that make St. John’s an unmissable choice.
St. John's Fast Facts:
Founded in 1870 by the Vincentian community
19,691 Students from 44 states and 119 countries (Fall 2023)
100+ undergraduate majors
I. Get to Know St. John’s University.
Where is St. John's University?
St. John’s University’s Queens, NY, campus covers 102 acres in Hillcrest, NY, providing a spacious and vibrant environment for students. The residential campus offers many benefits, including abundant amenities, picturesque green areas, and a blend of contemporary and traditional structures, all conveniently located within a short distance from the metropolitan city. This sets it apart from many New York City colleges, which often have more urban, compact campuses. You can gain a unique college experience, combining urban and suburban atmospheres.
Get a closer look at the St. John’s Queens, NY, campus.
The World’s Borough: What Makes Queens, New York, a Unique Place to Study'
Did you know that Queens, also known as the “world’s borough,” is one of the most ethnically diverse areas in New York City? Studying in Queens means being part of a community where various languages are spoken, and many residents are foreign-born, providing a global perspective right at home. In addition to its diverse population, the borough is known for its famous world-class cuisine, with restaurants offering authentic dishes from nearly every corner of the globe. You can immerse yourself in cultural festivals, art exhibitions, and historical sites, enriching your educational journey. With such a dynamic environment, there are endless opportunities to learn about different cultures and enjoy the unique experiences only New York City can offer.
St. John’s University’s home—New York City—received the #17 ranking on The QS Best Student Cities 2024!
Students and Campus Culture
St. John’s is home to over 19,691 students from over 44 states and 119 countries (Fall 2023), making the university a unique space where diversity thrives. Students from all walks of life can come together to learn, grow, and create lasting connections.
Of the enrolled student population at St. John’s University, 49% were black, Hispanic, Asian, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, American Indian, Alaska Native, or two or more races.
Organizations and Clubs
You’ll find a vibrant and dynamic campus life at St. John’s that caters to its students' diverse interests and needs. The university’s active student organizations provide numerous leadership opportunities and foster community among students. With over 180+ student clubs, from academic societies like its chapter in the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) to cultural groups such as the Caribbean Students Association, there is something for everyone. Additionally, the university is home to over 20 active fraternity and sorority organizations, contributing to an engaged fraternity and sorority life on campus.
Athletics
If sports are essential to your college experience, know that St. John’s Red Storm Athletics plays a crucial role in campus life, making it an appealing destination for prospective student-athletes. The University offers 17 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I teams that compete in the highly competitive BIG EAST Conference.
Most recently, they captured the 2023–24 BIG EAST Baseball Championship, marking the program’s 10th conference championship. Alongside athletic achievements, St. John’s sports teams also place a strong emphasis on academics. In August 2024, the baseball and women’s golf teams at St. John’s earned the 2023–24 BIG EAST Team Academic Excellence Award.
Additionally, the St. John’s Red Storm Men’s Basketball team is a vital part of the athletic scene at the University, embodying both the spirit and the competitive drive that defines the campus’s sports culture. One of the most anticipated events for St. John’s Men’s Basketball is the annual Johnnies Day. This celebration brings together students, alumni, and fans to support the team in a high-energy environment.
Service and Social Action
St. John's University, rooted in its Vincentian mission, strongly emphasizes service and social justice, offering students a year-round opportunity to make an impact at both local and global levels. This commitment is demonstrated through various service opportunities available to students, from volunteering in soup kitchens to participating in week-long service immersions and joining societies focused on social justice.
A prime example of how students can engage in meaningful service is through the St. Vincent de Paul Society (SVDP), an international organization of laypersons dedicated to serving those in need. The St. John's chapter is the first collegiate chapter of the SVDP Society in the United States, highlighting the university's pioneering role in integrating service and faith-based learning.
St. John's Fun Fact
In 2023, 248 volunteers gave 1,245 hours of service on University Service Day!
Study Abroad and Global Programs
Wonder what it’s like to travel the globe while earning college credit? St. John’s University makes this a reality for its students. With study abroad programs like the Global Passport, first-year students can explore the vibrant cities of Paris or Rome for as little as $750.
Want to immerse yourself in European culture for a full semester? The “Discover” programs offer in-depth experiences in Paris, Rome, or Limerick, Ireland. With a remarkable 40% of students participating in study abroad programs, St. John’s has consistently ranked among the top universities for international engagement over the past decade.
Support Services
From academic assistance through tutoring and writing centers to career guidance and mental health support, students can access resources designed to help them thrive. Additionally, the university offers dedicated support for diverse student populations, including international student support services, multicultural affairs, and disability services. These services work collaboratively to create a supportive campus environment that empowers students to reach their full potential.
Residence Life and Housing
While many St. John’s students are commuters, living on campus allows you to immerse yourself fully in university life, offering easy access to academic buildings, dining facilities, and recreational centers. The residence halls provide a variety of living arrangements, from traditional dormitory-style rooms to suite-style accommodations. Incoming first-year students are assigned to a traditional or suite-style freshman residence hall to enhance the first-year experience.
Each residence hall has essential amenities, including study lounges, common areas, laundry facilities, and high-speed internet access. The campus housing also emphasizes safety and security, with 24-hour security personnel and secure entry systems.
Academics and Majors
St. John's University offers a wide range of academic programs that set the stage for your success in any chosen field. With over 100 majors and academic programs, students can explore their passions and carve out a path that aligns with their career goals. One of the newest program additions is the four-year nursing program through the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, which offers students a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Nursing.
Additionally, the university has rigorous academic training and practical experience. Programs like the Academic Service-Learning initiative integrate community service with coursework, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings while positively impacting the community.
Tuition and Financial Support
Starting in the academic year 2024-25, the tuition for a full-time undergraduate student will be $51,410. This cost does not include extra fees and other expenses related to attending the institution. Fortunately, St. John's University students can explore various avenues for financial aid, including scholarships, loans, grants, and work-study programs. These opportunities are determined upon filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
In addition to need-based aid, first-year, full-time undergraduate students who enroll in a bachelor’s degree program can receive merit-based academic scholarships, awarding up to $3,000 annually.
Over 365 million in financial aid was received by undergraduate students.
2021-2022 academic year
Interested in Applying to St. John’s University?
Ready to take the next step? Check out the admissions page for information on how to apply and plan a campus visit. With comprehensive resources and a supportive academic environment, St. John's University is the perfect place to start your journey toward achieving your career aspirations.
