Overview
Cleveland State University is a accessible public four-year institution in Cleveland, Ohio. The school accepts 85.3% of applicants and enrolls 9,077 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 85.3%
- Average SAT
- 1,005
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 880–1,130
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 22
- Total Enrollment
- 9,077
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Cleveland State University uses rolling admissions, so you can apply throughout the academic year, but submit your application by February 15 for the best financial aid consideration. You'll need to complete the Common Application or CSU's online application, submit your high school transcripts, and provide SAT or ACT scores (though the university has adopted a test-optional policy for many programs).
While CSU admits most applicants overall, certain programs maintain competitive admission standards. Engineering programs, including electrical and mechanical engineering, require stronger academic credentials and may have earlier application deadlines. The nursing program also has limited capacity and additional requirements like prerequisite coursework and clinical background checks.
Housing fills up quickly despite the university's open admission policy, so submit your housing application and deposit as soon as you're accepted. CSU operates several residence halls on its downtown Cleveland campus, with newer facilities like Euclid Commons offering apartment-style living for upperclassmen.
The campus sits in downtown Cleveland, meaning you'll have access to internships and job opportunities with major employers like the Cleveland Clinic, Progressive Insurance, and various engineering firms. This urban location also means you should budget for parking if you plan to bring a car, as street parking can be limited and campus parking requires permits.
New student orientation occurs throughout the summer, and you'll register for classes during this time. Meet with an academic advisor early since some popular courses fill quickly, especially in engineering and computer science programs where enrollment has grown significantly in recent years.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $16,065/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $12,613
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $17,973
- Students Receiving Aid
- 39%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 48.9%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $52,131/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 69.1%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Cleveland State University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Cleveland State University has adopted a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether or not to submit standardized test scores with their application.
What is the application deadline for Cleveland State University?
Cleveland State University operates on a rolling admissions basis with priority deadlines of February 15 for fall semester and November 1 for spring semester. Applications submitted after these dates are reviewed on a space-available basis.
How many transfer credits does Cleveland State University accept?
Cleveland State University accepts up to 90 transfer credits from other accredited institutions. Students must complete at least 30 credit hours at CSU to earn their degree.
Does Cleveland State University offer early admission programs?
Cleveland State University does not offer early decision or early action programs. All applications are processed through regular admission on a rolling basis.