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Chicago State University

Apply for first-year
Chicago State University campus

Curiosity and ambition are the heart of Chicago State University (CSU), where we foster a culture of discovery and innovation. Located just 15 minutes from downtown Chicago, our vibrant urban campus offers the perfect blend of city excitement and a close-knit community feel.

Our student-centered approach ensures you will receive a transformative education that is affordable and accessible to all. We offer over 50 undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. Our small class sizes and diverse, dedicated faculty ensure that students receive a quality education tailored to their individual goals.

At CSU, you’ll have endless opportunities to explore your passions, develop your talents, and set ablaze your unique path to success.

Whether you are a recent high school graduate, a transfer student, or a working professional seeking to advance your career, CSU is dedicated to helping you achieve your academic and professional aspirations.
 

Accepts first-year applicationsMidwestPublicUrbanMedium (2,001 to 14,999)Co-Ed
Virtual Tour

Academic programs

  • Science
  • Technology
  • Liberal Arts
  • Business
  • Education
  • Nursing
  • Communication
  • Music
  • Art & Design
  • Finance/Accounting
  • Government/Political Science
  • Health Science
  • Performing Arts
  • Social Science
  • Visual Arts
  • Psychology
  • Computer Science
  • Pharmacy
  • Public health

Student experience

  • Athletics
  • Co-op/Internship Opportunities
  • Disability Services
  • Greek Life
  • LGBTQIA Services
  • Military/Veteran Services
  • Night Class Offerings
  • On-Campus Housing
  • ROTC Program
  • Study Abroad
  • Undergraduate Research
  • Veteran Fee Waiver
  • Distance/online learning

Application information

First-year

Applicants who are currently in high school or have earned a high school diploma and never attended college must submit the following:
  • Submit the $25 non-refundable application fee ($50 for International Applicants - Waivers are not accepted) or a Fee Waiver Request.
  • Official High School/GED transcript - Have a minimum un-weighted cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
  • Official test scores results -OPTIONAL
  • Letter of Recommendation-OPTIONAL
  • Personal Essay-OPTIONAL

Transfer

Prospective Transfer Freshmen applicants who have earned less than 24 semester hours or 36 quarter hours of earned college-level coursework must also meet freshman requirements and submit the following to complete the admission application: 
  • Official college transcript(s) from each college or university attended
  • Official High School/GED transcript
  • Submit the $25 non-refundable application fee or fee waiver request form 
  • Official SAT/ACT scores-OPTIONAL
CSU offers guaranteed admissions to City Colleges of Chicago (CCC) students who complete an Associate of Arts (AA) or an Associate of Science (AS) degree, enabling them to enroll in over 20 baccalaureate programs. Additionally, graduates with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) receive guaranteed admission specifically to Chicago State’s Early Childhood and Supply Chain Management programs.

Eligibility: 

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Additional information

CSU offers endless scholarship opportunities to support the overall goal of providing an affordable, top-quality education by providing financial assistance to those students and their families seeking to offset their educational costs.
  • Rise Academy is a gap-closing scholarship program uniquely designed for eligible freshmen and transfer students who enter Chicago State University with less than 24 credits. Covering only full tuition and fees, Rise Academy provides a wide range of services that foster student success through academic and personal support. 
  • Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) - Students who wish to receive consideration for financial aid funds (grants/loans/student employment, and many scholarship programs) must complete the financial aid application process every academic year.
For more information on scholarships, grants, and other forms of student aid, visit: https://www.csu.edu/financialaid/scholarship.htm

Visit us

Experience CSU's Cougar Culture firsthand through a campus visit, where you’ll immerse yourself in our vibrant academic environment.

Expect a guided tour showcasing our state-of-the-art facilities, interactive sessions with faculty and current students, and an overview of our diverse academic programs and scholarship opportunities. 

To make the most of your visit, wear comfortable shoes, prepare questions, and bring a notepad for insights. Discover the dynamic community and boundless opportunities CSU offers, and envision your future with us.

Schedule your visit today and see why your potential is our priority. For more information please visit us at: https://www.csu.edu/admissions/undergraduate/campus_tour.htm

Unleash your potential at Chicago State University to transform your ambitions into achievements.