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Cleveland State University

Apply for first-year
Cleveland State University campus
We are one of America's Best Colleges (according to U.S. News & World Report). We are 8 colleges and schools with 175+ academic programs. We are an ever-expanding campus that makes up the largest footprint in Cleveland. We are more than 3,000 internships and co-ops each year. We cheer on the Vikings in 15 NCAA Division I sports. We are more than 200 student organizations on a dynamic campus. We are part of vibrant downtown Cleveland, where something exciting is always happening. And as one of Ohio's most competitively priced universities, we also happen to be an excellent value.
Accepts first-year applicationsMidwestPublicUrbanLarge (15,000+)Co-Ed
Virtual Tour

Academic programs

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

Student experience

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

Application information

First-year

Students applying as a first year student to Cleveland State University are required to submit an official high school transcript along with their completed application to be reviewed for an admission decision. CSU is currently test optional or test blind in in the review process and our $40 application fee is being waived. Students should apply by August 15th prior to the start of the term to be considered for admission. Once your transcript has been received, you can expect an admission decision within one week.

Transfer

Students applying as a transfer student to Cleveland State University are required to submit all official college l transcript along with their completed application to be reviewed for an admission decision. CSU is currently waiving our $40 application fee. Students should apply by August 15th prior to the start of the term to be considered for admission. Once your transcript has been received, you can expect an admission decision within one week.

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Additional information

Incoming First Year and Transfer Students will be automatically considered for a number of institutional scholarships once they are formally admitted to CSU. These awards do not have to be repaid and are based on a variety of factors, including academic merit and financial need. CSU’s institutional scholarships for Ohio freshmen typically range up to $32,000 and non-resident freshmen may receive up to $40,000. Our Honors Program (available to both in- and out-of-state students) offers competitive scholarship awards for select new freshmen.

These merit-based scholarships will automatically renew each academic year, provided you satisfactorily complete at least 12 credit hours per semester (fall and spring) and maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average (GPA).  In order to maintain the scholarship, students must continue to meet all scholarship requirements.

CSU also offers a number of competitive scholarships to incoming transfer students. Eligibility is based on a number of criteria including cumulative college GPA.

Visit us

CSU – home of engaged learning! At CSU, our favorite way to get to know you is in-person during a campus visit. We think you'll be impressed when you head to CSU's 85-acre campus in the heart of downtown Cleveland. See what a half billion dollar campus makeover looks like. Learn about our top-rated academic programs, renewable scholarships and Arts Campus at Playhouse Square. Take a student-led campus tour, including our amazing new dorm rooms with a view (and private bathrooms)

"CSU is truly an Engaged Learning experience, and you are able to take charge of your own education and involvement. I have learned and grown so much since coming to Cleveland State, and I am excited to become an alum and stay connected."